In a highly anticipated casting move, British actress Emma Mackey has been confirmed to star as the White Witch in Greta Gerwig's upcoming adaptation of C.S. Lewis's beloved fantasy series, The Chronicles of Narnia, for Netflix. The news, first reported on April 25, 2025, by multiple outlets including The Hollywood Reporter and Variety, marks a significant milestone in Mackey's rising career, following her breakout role in Netflix's Sex Education and her recent appearance in Gerwig's blockbuster Barbie.
Mackey's character, known as Jadis, is the primary antagonist not only in The Magician's Nephew, the sixth novel in the Narnia series, but also in the iconic The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. The film is expected to explore the origins of Narnia, focusing on the young characters Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer as they discover the magical world through Digory's uncle's magic. Gerwig, who is not only directing but also wrote the screenplay, is set to begin production in 2026.
Joining Mackey in the cast is the legendary Meryl Streep, who is currently in talks to voice Aslan, the noble lion who serves as a guardian and guide for the children entering Narnia. Daniel Craig is also rumored to be cast in the role of Andrew Ketterley, a morally ambiguous magician whose actions lead to the creation of the magical world.
This adaptation has been in the works since Netflix announced in 2018 that it would develop new series and films based on Lewis's works. Gerwig officially boarded the project in 2020 after her successful directorial ventures with Lady Bird and Little Women, and most recently, Barbie, which grossed $1.4 billion worldwide.
As for the release strategy, Netflix is planning a two-week exclusive IMAX run for the film starting on Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2026, before it becomes available for streaming on Netflix just in time for Christmas. This theatrical release is a rare move for Netflix, showcasing their commitment to bringing this beloved story back to the big screen.
Mackey's casting has generated considerable excitement among fans and industry insiders alike. She is seen as a fitting choice for Jadis, a character who has previously been portrayed by Tilda Swinton in the 2005 Disney adaptation. Notably, this role continues Mackey's impressive trajectory in Hollywood, following her acclaimed performances in Emily, where she played the titular role of author Emily Brontë, and Death on the Nile.
In addition to her work in Narnia, Mackey has several upcoming projects on her slate. She is set to star in J.J. Abrams' untitled feature, alongside Glen Powell and Jenna Ortega, and will lead in Ella McCay, a comedy directed by James L. Brooks, which is scheduled for release on December 12, 2025. Mackey's impressive resume continues to grow, and her collaboration with Gerwig once again highlights her versatility as an actress.
The anticipation for Gerwig's Narnia adaptation is palpable, as fans eagerly await the reimagining of this classic tale. With a blend of established stars and fresh talent, the film promises to bring a new perspective to Lewis's timeless story while honoring its original spirit. As the project moves forward, both Mackey and Gerwig are poised to make a significant impact in the realm of fantasy cinema.
In summary, Emma Mackey's casting as the White Witch marks a pivotal moment in the upcoming Narnia film, with Greta Gerwig at the helm. As production gears up for 2026, audiences can look forward to a captivating journey into the magical world of Narnia, filled with new adventures and the timeless struggle between good and evil.
