Emma Mackey is stepping into one of fantasy’s most iconic villain roles, the Sex Education star has officially been offered the part of Jadis, the White Witch, in Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Chronicles of Narnia adaptation for Netflix.
Fans of Mackey’s work in Barbie will be thrilled to see her reunite with director Gerwig for this new take on C.S. Lewis’ classic novels. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Mackey edged out major names like The Substance star Margaret Qualley and singer Charli XCX, who were also being considered for the icy role.
The new film will reportedly focus on The Magician’s Nephew, the sixth novel in Lewis’ Narnia series, which serves as a prequel to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. While Tilda Swinton famously portrayed the White Witch in the 2005 film and its sequels, Mackey is set to bring a fresh, darker energy to the character under Gerwig’s creative vision.
Gerwig, who both wrote the script and will direct, has already proven her ability to transform beloved stories into cinematic hits with Little Women and Barbie. And now, she’s bringing that magic to Narnia, with Netflix reportedly giving the movie an extended run on IMAX screens globally, a rare move for a streaming giant.
There’s even more excitement brewing, as reports suggest James Bond icon Daniel Craig has been approached for a mystery role in the film. Talks are still at an early stage, but if Craig signs on, it’ll add even more firepower to an already stellar cast.
Netflix first announced its plans for a Chronicles of Narnia reboot back in 2018, but progress had been slow until Gerwig officially boarded the project two years ago. With Mackey now confirmed and production moving forward, fans can finally start counting down to their next trip through the wardrobe.
The fantasy world of Narnia is about to get a stunning new makeover, and Emma Mackey’s White Witch might just steal the entire show.
