Showrunner Lauren Hissrich decided to take liberties with The Witcher's season 1 timeline when telling each main character's individual story. Geralt and Yennefer's stories took place in the past, while Ciri's story loosely took place in the present. Hissirch's decision ended up being the biggest criticism thrown at the show, and she plans to adjust things accordingly.
During an interview with The Wrap, Hissrich confirmed The Witcher's second season wouldn't have the same multi-timeline format that the first season does. While Hissrich stands by her use of the format, she understands that it was one of the more controversial topics surrounding the show.
She said she used it originally because she felt it was the best way to let the audience get to know the characters as individuals. However, now that the characters' stories have officially intersected, there's no need to format the second season's timeline the same way she did the first. So fans should get a more streamlined story with season 2.
Lauren Hisrich said something similar to this a few months ago on Reddit. When reviews for The Witcher's first season started pouring in, Hissrich ended up discussing the time controversy with fans. However, this current instance is the first time she's confirmed the change during a formal interview, and she's provided more details as a result.
For example, Hisrich still plans to play around with time in The Witcher's second season. She says that now that all the character's stories have reached the present day, she and her team can play around with flashbacks and flash-forwards. How this will look remains unseen, but hopefully, it's different enough from season one's time-jumping to avoid the same problems.
Regardless, though, most people will find the timeline change to be good news. So many viewers were confused by it that Netflix had to launch an interactive map for The Witcher just to help them get a better understanding. However Hissrich decides to handle season 2 is sure to be interesting once it finally premieres.
Sadly, Hissrich doesn't know when the show's production will start up again. The second season of The Witcher ended up suspended back in March over coronavirus concerns, and there's no word on when it will be back officially. Hissrich does claim that she and her team are attending tons of production meetings through video calls, though.
The Witcher's second season development is currently delayed.
Source: The Wrap