Overview
- Greta Gerwig’s Netflix adaptation of Narnia may feature Meryl Streep portraying Aslan in a gender-swapped role.
- Aslan, as envisioned by CS Lewis in the novels, symbolizes a Christ-like figure, contributing to Lewis’s creation of this character.
- Streep’s impressive versatility makes her a compelling choice for the role of Aslan in this new interpretation.
Greta Gerwig’s eagerly anticipated Narnia reboot for Netflix is gaining momentum, with discussions indicating that renowned actress Meryl Streep is in consideration for the role of Aslan, the iconic Great Lion. This venture marks Gerwig’s directorial return following her acclaimed success with Barbie, a film that received multiple Academy Award nominations. Additionally, it represents her inaugural project under a new agreement with Netflix, wherein she plans to create at least two adaptations based on C.S. Lewis’s beloved fantasy series.
In the literary world, Aslan is the wise guardian and mentor of Narnia, a profound presence throughout all seven chronicles. Lewis himself hinted at Aslan’s representation as a savior figure akin to Jesus Christ, highlighting themes of death and resurrection that resonate deeply within the narrative. Interestingly, Lewis shared in a letter that his conceptualization of Aslan was influenced by vivid dreams of lions, which sparked the idea of this majestic character. Gerwig has chosen to adapt the sixth installment, The Magician’s Nephew, which serves as a prequel to the series, and it appears that the character of Aslan will undergo a gender transformation in this innovative reimagining.
Meryl Streep in Talks for Aslan Role in Gerwig’s Narnia
According to Nexus Point News, the legendary Meryl Streep is being considered for the role of Aslan in this groundbreaking adaptation. Should this casting come to fruition, Streep will pave the way for a female representation of Aslan, a feat that only she could convincingly accomplish. Notably, this character was previously voiced by Liam Neeson in Walden Media’s Narnia trilogy from the 2000s. Earlier portrayals in this franchise included Ronald Pickup and Stephen Thorne in different adaptations.
Streep, a powerhouse of acting talent, first graced the screen in the 1978 film The Deer Hunter, earning her first Oscar nomination. She subsequently won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in Kramer vs. Kramer (1979). Though she has not appeared in a film since 2021’s Don’t Look Up, Streep has continued to captivate audiences on television in Only Murders in the Building. Rumors suggest she might play musician Joni Mitchell in an upcoming biopic directed by Cameron Crowe. At 75, Streep’s remarkable ability to embody diverse characters makes her an excellent candidate for the role of Aslan.
Meryl Streep represents the third major casting consideration for Gerwig’s Narnia reboot. Additionally, pop sensation Charli XCX is in talks for the role of Jadis, the White Witch, a character previously portrayed by Tilda Swinton. Furthermore, there are rumors surrounding Daniel Craig as a potential candidate for the role of Andrew Ketterley, a notoriously selfish magician and uncle to Digory Kirke. Scheduled for a theatrical release in IMAX on Thanksgiving Day 2026, the film will subsequently debut on Netflix on Christmas Day 2026.
Source: Nexus Point News