Greta Gerwig’s long-awaited trip toNarniahas finally found one of its major players, according to a new report byThe Hollywood Reporter.While several names have been in the frame to play Jadis, the White Witch in the new adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ classic fantasy franchise, it looks like the director has called in one of her former collaborators in the form ofEmma Mackeyto take on the pivotal role in the saga.
For many, Mackey gained a breakout role in the Netflix seriesSex Education, and has since appeared in several other high-profile projects, including Gerwig’s ownBarbie,appearing alongside Margot Robbie as one of multiple Barbiesin the movie. The report suggests that Mackey has beaten off competition from stars includingsinger-actor Charli XCX, who was hotly tipped by some for the role, andThe Substance’s Margaret Qualley. It seems that Qualley was Mackey’s biggest challenger for the role, and the final decision was made between the pair.
Netflix’s ‘Narnia’ Reportedly Recasting Iconic Liam Neeson Role With Unexpected Oscar-Winner
Greta Gerwig’s ‘Narnia’ reboot has reportedly found its Aslan.
While this is not yet official – like any casting news is ever officially announced before it is “confirmed” these days – it seems like the deal is done. The White Witch role continues Mackey’s incredible run since her break-out role inSex Education, which led to roles in the Kenneth Branagh remake ofDeath on the Nile, and appearing as the titular character inEmily, which saw her earn several award nominations for playing Emily Brontë.
Is Another ‘Chronicles of Narnia’ Adaptation Necessary?
According to multiple reports, Gerwig’s Narnia journey will begin with the prequel story toThe Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, The Magician’s Nephew.Telling the origins of Jadis and the history of Narnia, this would be the first time the story has been told in a major movie, with many favoring the better-known second story instead as a starting point.
There are many who question why the world needs another adaptation of theChronicles of Narnia, withThe Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobehaving previously been adapted in animation, live-action TV, and movie form. However, if Gerwig is able to pull off a seemingly impossible feat of delivering the entire seven stories in Lewis’ novel series, then perhaps it will have been worth it.
Currently, other rumored castings include Meryl Streep in talks to play Aslan, and Daniel Craig has also been linked to the role of Uncle Andrew Ketterley, one of the main antagonists inThe Magician’s Nephew.Currently, the movie is set to become one of the few Netflix movies to secure a cinematic release in December 2026, over seven years after the project was originally discussed as part of the streamer’s future plans.
Source:The Hollywood Reporter
The Chronicles of Narnia
