Greta Gerwig has been working onNetflix’s upcoming Narnia film franchise sinceBarbiecame out in 2023 and destroyed the worldwide box office. Although the first of the streaming giant’sNarniafilms isn’t set to hit theaters until the end of 2026, pre-production is obviously underway and Gerwig is eyeing one of 2024’s biggest musicians for a mysterious role.
Adapting any set of beloved novels is always difficult, althoughNetflixdoesn’t seem too concerned even with the eventual flameout of Fox and Disney’s originalNarniafilm franchise back in the 2000s lingering in the back of everyone’s minds. Gerwig was brought on board to write and direct the first two films ofNetflix’s newNarniaseriesand time is ticking with that Winter 2026 release date creeping ever closer. As such, casting rumors abound and the latest scuttlebutt is a bit of a doozy.
Is Charli XCX A Perfect Fit For Narnia?
She Certainly Knows How To Work A Wardrobe
Andreas Wiseman ofDeadlineis reportingthat Gerwig and Netflix are eyeing none other than Charli XCX for a part in theNarniafranchise. Wiseman stated, “The multiple Grammy winner is understood to be among top choices for a key role and there have been talks for a little while, but nothing is set at the moment. TBC whether a deal comes to fruition.” TheBratsuperstar took her career to new heights last year and, if the report is true, could be looking to expand her horizons even further.
The English pop star released her first studio album back in 2013 withTrue Romance, but 2024’sBrattook her popularity to new levels thanks to its combination of critically-acclaimed music and viral music videos. Say what you want about the Grammy Awards, but you don’t get nominated in nine categories at once for nothing. At this point in time, few music stars have the cachéCharli XCXhas.
Though the decorated artist has shown off her acting chops in the past, this would mark a clear first for her: acting in a live-action, major motion picture. Over the years, Charli has lent her voice to films likeThe Angry Birds MovieandUglyDollswhile also appearing onSaturday Night Livea few times, even hosting the show in 2024. She also played herself on theGossip Girlreboot and has appeared in various documentaries and concert films over the years.
Interestingly enough, the pop star seems to be making a serious pivot into acting overall. In addition to the rumored role she’s up for inNarnia, Charli has an incredible five films currently in post-production. These includeSacrifice, an action-adventure film headlined by Chris Evans and Anya Taylor-Joy,The Gallerist, a thriller starring Natalie Portman and Jenna Ortega, andFaces of Death, a horror film featuring Barbie Ferreira and Dacre Montgomery. Whether Charli XCX ends up getting the mysterious role inNarniaor not—could she be the new White Witch, taking up the mantle from Tilda Swinton?—it’s clear she intends on the next phase of her career including a whole lot of screentime.
Netflix’s firstChronicles of Narniafilm is currently set to hit theatres in 2026.
Netflix
Netflix is one of the most popular and widely viewed streaming services in the world. Beginning with its mail order DVD service, Netflix has since grown into an entertainment juggernaut, with original shows and movies including Squid Game, Stranger Things, The Irishman, and The Killer.
