Greta Gerwig’s journey into the magical world of Narnia has officially found its villain. Emma Mackey, best known for her standout performances in Sex Education and Gerwig’s own Barbie, has been cast as the White Witch, Jadis, in Netflix’s highly anticipated adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia. The decision ends earlier rumours linking pop star Charli XCX to the role.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Mackey emerged victorious from a final shortlist that included The Substance star Margaret Qualley, both vying for a part immortalised by Tilda Swinton in the 2005 film The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Mackey’s sharp presence and growing reputation for complex performances likely gave her the edge — a fitting choice for a character as alluring and menacing as Jadis.
Intriguingly, whispers from inside the production also suggest that Meryl Streep is circling the project, reportedly in talks to voice Aslan, the mighty lion and creator figure of Narnia. If confirmed, Streep’s involvement would add even more prestige to Gerwig’s ambitious new vision. The first film is expected to adapt The Magician’s Nephew — the sixth book published, but the first chronologically in C.S. Lewis’ beloved series — offering audiences a fresh entry point into the mythical world.
Netflix has stayed silent on Mackey’s casting, as Gerwig’s Narnia heads for a 2025 Thanksgiving IMAX release and a Christmas 2026 streaming debut. With the wardrobe doors now swinging open, one thing’s clear: winter is indeed coming to Narnia — and Emma Mackey will be right at the heart of the storm.
