Netflix announces The Witcher’s deadly new hunter after ‘heartbreaking’ season 2 casting shake-up
THE Witcher has a new Eskel in the way of Basil Eidenbenz who replaces Thue Ersted Rasmussen's after his 'heartbreaking' exit.
The Eskel actor, 34, was forced to leave the show due to scheduling conflicts caused by the delay in production due to the coronavirus pandemic lockdown.
He will be replaced by Eidenbenz who is known to audiences from his work in Victoria opposite Jenna Coleman and The Athena.
Rasmussen took to Instagram to tell fans he will not be portraying the character in the Netflix show's upcoming season due to scheduling issues in the wake of the coronavirus.
He penned: "Sadly, due to the rescheduling because of Covid-19, I will not be portraying Eskel in The Witcher.
"It's heartbreaking, of course, but I mostly feel happy and grateful for the days I got to spend on set earlier this year.
"Everyone was extremely engaged and passionate about the project and it was a truly inspiring experience."
He added: "A heartfelt thank you to all the fans who wrote me lovely, encouraging messages."
He ended his message by wishing the rest of The Witcher cast the best of luck on season two, which he believes will be "absolutely amazing."
Eskel was a witcher of the School of the Wolf taught by Master Vesemir at Kaer Morhen and active in the 13th century.
Though less famous than his peer Geralt of Rivia, Eskel became renowned in his own right as a professional, reliable witcher, and possessing a kind and relaxed disposition needed in his role.
Given him being a somewhat important character, it would make sense if Netflix were to re-cast Thue after his departure.
Earlier this month The Witcher dropped a spin-off miniseries which will reveal the fantasy drama’s biggest mysteries and surprising plot twists.
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Following the release of the documentary special Making The Witcher, Netflix have given delighted fans more content based around the fantasy drama series.
Viewers will get the chance to sink their teeth into a whole season of making-of episodes titled The Witcher: A Look Inside the Episodes.
Stream series one of The Witcher on Netflix now.