Entertainment

Netflix announces new drama series based on fantasy saga The Witcher

Could this be a hot new rival to Game Of Thrones?
Could this be a hot new rival to Game Of Thrones? Could this be a hot new rival to Game Of Thrones?

A series based on The Witcher is going to Netflix, and fans of the role-playing video game and books franchise have shared their excitement over the new TV prospect.

The streaming network is developing an English language drama series based on the fantasy saga, penned by Polish writer Andrzej Sapkowski.

Sapkowski has written eight novels in the collection, known as the Witcher Saga, based on hunters called witchers who fight off deadly monsters after having gained supernatural powers.

The best-selling books paved the way for a major video game franchise that has since been translated into more than 20 languages.Erik Barmack, Netflix’s vice president for international series, said: “Andrzej Sapkowski has created a rich and memorable world, at once magical and familiar.“We couldn’t be more excited about bringing The Witcher saga to Netflix members around the world.”

Sapkowski, who will serve as the series’ creative consultant, added: “I’m thrilled that Netflix will be doing an adaptation of my stories, staying true to the source material and the themes that I have spent over 30 years writing.“I’m excited about our efforts together, as well as the team assembled to shepherd these characters to life.”As the news broke of the new show, fans took to Twitter to air their enthusiasm and hopes for the project.

Another had a casting suggestion for the series’ lead protagonist, Geralt of Rivia.