Emma Mackey is signaling an on-screen reunion with director Greta Gerwig as Netflix moves forward with its long-developing adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia. Although Netflix hasn’t formally announced casting for the new films, multiple reports place Mackey in the role of Jadis, the White Witch, in the planned adaptation of The Magician’s Nephew. The novel serves as a prequel to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and explores the origins of Narnia itself.
During an interview promoting her upcoming political dramedy Ella McCay, Mackey was asked what she could share about the project. She avoided specifics but confirmed she is involved and spoke positively about working with Gerwig again, describing the early stages of production as an energizing experience. This marks their second collaboration following Mackey’s appearance in Gerwig’s 2023 film Barbie.
If Mackey does portray Jadis, she will take on a part last played by Tilda Swinton in Disney’s earlier Narnia trilogy from 2005 to 2010. Because The Magician’s Nephew takes place earlier in the series timeline, this version of Jadis is expected to be a younger interpretation of the character. Reported cast members for Netflix’s reboot include Daniel Craig as Uncle Andrew, Carey Mulligan as Mabel Kirke, Meryl Streep as the voice of Aslan, and newcomers David McKenna and Beatrice Campbell as Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer. Netflix is planning a multi-film saga built around these characters, with an IMAX release reportedly part of the strategy.
Production on Gerwig’s Narnia films is underway, marking a new chapter for the property after more than a decade without a major adaptation. The original trilogy’s producer, Mark Johnson, who is also attached to the reboot, has indicated that Gerwig’s take will differ considerably from the earlier films. Cast members from the 2000s adaptations, including Ben Barnes, have expressed interest in returning in some capacity, though the reboot appears focused on reintroducing the world with a new cast and creative approach.
With Gerwig directing and Netflix investing heavily in the franchise, The Magician’s Nephew is positioned to set the tone for this new retelling of Lewis’ universe. More updates are expected as production progresses.
