C.S. Lewis family supports Netflix Narnia adaptation amid casting controversy

The family of C.S. Lewis has issued a statement expressing support for director Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Netflix adaptation of The Magician's Nephew. The statement, released through Netflix, follows reports that the family was distressed by the casting of Meryl Streep as the voice of Aslan. The family members stated they have witnessed Gerwig’s sincere passion for the source material and expressed enthusiasm for the production team’s work.

This public support counters claims made by Movieguide founder Ted Baehr, who previously alleged that the family feared the casting choice would damage the Narnia brand. While some fans have criticized the decision to cast a woman as Aslan, arguing it introduces modern gender ideology into the classic Christian allegory, the family emphasized their desire for the film to be successful. The production is scheduled for a theatrical release in February, followed by a debut on Netflix in April.