Meryl Streep as Aslan? Netflix’s plan to reimagine a classic icon is sparking an inferno of debate over tradition versus modernity.
At a Glance
- Meryl Streep is reportedly in discussions to voice Aslan in the new Netflix Narnia adaptation.
- The potential gender swap of Aslan has triggered intense online backlash.
- C.S. Lewis’s fans express concern over maintaining the character’s traditional Christ-like allegory.
- Gerwig’s adaptation, focusing on “The Magician’s Nephew,” will release in Thanksgiving 2026.
- The controversy reveals ongoing challenges in balancing classic literature with modern representation.
Netflix’s Controversial Casting Choice
Netflix’s decision to potentially cast Meryl Streep as Aslan in Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of “The Magician’s Nephew” has opened a floodgate of controversy. This classic C.S. Lewis role is imbued with rich Christian symbolism, traditionally portrayed by a male figure resembling Christ. Fans argue that altering this gender dynamic could undermine the original story’s intent, sparking a firestorm on social media platforms and beyond.
Streep is reportedly in talks to voice Aslan, facing backlash from those who see it as a “woke agenda” undermining tradition. Critics argue that the gender swap could dilute the character’s significance and misrepresent core Christian themes in Lewis’s tale.
Rantz: Meryl Streep is reportedly in talks to voice Aslan in Greta Gerwig’s upcoming adaptation of “The Chronicles of Narnia” for Netflix. It’s absurd casting that has rightly led to controversy.https://t.co/zclPpESiqv
— MyNorthwest (@Mynorthwest) April 9, 2025
Fans and Traditional Values
C.S. Lewis’s Narnia series is revered for its Christian allegories, with Aslan standing as a pivotal Christ-like figure. Deviating from this can be seen as sacrilege by purists who regard the series as an extension of their faith. This casting choice risks alienating a dedicated fanbase who believe in the sanctity of Lewis’s biblically inspired creation. In their eyes, gender-swapping Aslan is more than a casting decision—it could be seen as a direct affront to their religious values.
“Dear Netflix, DO NOT DO THIS! You will regret it. Leave CS Lewis alone from your woke nonsense. The Chronicles of Narnia do not need to be ‘reimagined’.” – Netflix user
On the other hand, supporters argue for modern interpretations that align with gender equality trends, highlighting a generational divide on how characters should evolve with culture. Nonetheless, the core concern remains: preserving the integrity and authenticity of Lewis’s legacy. As debates rage, this controversy reflects broader challenges in today’s media landscape, balancing faithful representation with modern social values.
What Lies Ahead for Narnia
Gerwig’s adaptation will focus on “The Magician’s Nephew,” set to premiere in November 2026 on IMAX with a subsequent streaming release in December. As Netflix holds the rights to all Narnia books, they aim to reinterpret the iconic tales for today’s audience. The decision to possibly re-cast Aslan plays into this broader vision but faces hurdles as dedicated fans wrestle with accepting such sweeping changes.
Add to the mix Greta Gerwig’s notable success with “Barbie,” which sets high expectations for her take on C.S. Lewis’s imaginative worlds. Whether audiences embrace this modern rendition remains to be seen. What is clear is that this casting debate has struck a chord at the intersection of tradition, faith, and modern reinterpretation—a narrative as compelling as the world of Narnia itself.
