Streep as Aslan: Hollywood Stunned by Narnia Casting

Netflix's upcoming "Narnia" series is facing criticism following the casting of Meryl Streep as the voice of Aslan. This decision has raised concerns among some Christian fans and media figures who view Aslan as an allegory for Jesus Christ.

The controversy centers on the theological implications of a woman voicing the iconic character. An online petition has been launched, specifically targeting director Greta Gerwig, demanding her replacement for future "Narnia" films. The petition gained traction following negative reactions from certain Christian communities.

"Narnia: The Magician's Nephew," directed by Gerwig, is based on C.S. Lewis's 1955 novel. The film is slated for release in theaters on February 12, 2027, and on Netflix on April 2, 2027.

Critics like Dr. Ted Baehr, founder of Movieguide, expressed confusion, suggesting the casting could alienate millions of Christian viewers. He noted that while the film might succeed, it risks losing a significant audience segment.

Greta Gerwig, who identifies as a Unitarian Universalist, described her vision for Aslan as needing an actor with "profound but not pretentious" gravitas and the ability to convey depth, pathos, joy, and wonder. She sought someone older than 70 with the wisdom of experience and the wonder of a child, considering only a select few actors.

Voice director Ned Lott recalled the careful consideration given to casting Aslan for the 2005 film, emphasizing the importance of matching the character's integrity from the books. He shared his personal experience finding Liam Neeson's voice for the role, highlighting a different philosophy in casting.

Lott expressed puzzlement over Streep's casting, contrasting it with the meticulous approach taken in 2005 to honor C.S. Lewis's intentions. He acknowledged that there must be an artistic reason behind Gerwig's choice, representing a different philosophical approach to casting.