Meryl Streep’s Aslan Sparks Controversy in ‘Narnia’ Adaptation

Meryl Streep voices Aslan in 'Narnia: The Magician's Nephew,' sparking debate over gender and faith in Greta Gerwig's film.

Editorial Desk

October 5, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — New York, United States — A casting decision for Greta Gerwig’s upcoming film adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ classic “The Chronicles of Narnia” has ignited controversy among conservative Christian groups, who are upset that Meryl Streep will voice the character of Aslan, a lion often seen as a representation of Jesus Christ.

The film, titled Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew, is set to release in February and has already drawn criticism from religious commentators who argue that portraying Aslan as a female voice undermines traditional depictions of Christ. Despite this, Gerwig has emphasized her desire for an actor who could bring depth and joy to the role, citing Streep’s ability to embody both wisdom and wonder.

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While some scholars and fans remain neutral, others have expressed concern about how the portrayal of Aslan might affect the interpretation of the original stories. The C.S. Lewis family and intellectual property holders have, however, voiced support for Gerwig’s vision, praising her passion for the material and the film’s potential to bring new life to the beloved tales.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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