A major star from the James Bond franchise is reportedly being eyed for a potential role in Greta Gerwig’s The Chronicles of Narnia movie adaptation as momentum builds on the Netflix adaptation. While Netflix acquired the right to bring C.S. Lewis’ fantasy world to screens in 2018, Gerwig took on the position to kickstart their adaptation in July 2023 with a movie set to release in IMAX in 2026. Gerwig is currently slated to write and direct at least two of the Netflix movies in the franchise, with Matthew Aldrich serving as its creative architect.
ᴅᴇᴀᴅline reports that Daniel Craig, who portrayed James Bond himself across five movies from 2006 to 2021, is reportedly being considered for a role in Gerwig’s upcoming The Chronicles of Narnia adaptation. As negotiations are still ongoing and in their early stages, there are no hints as to who the actor will be playing. Should he board the project, Craig will star in the movie as it releases in theaters for two weeks during Thanksgiving 2026.
What Craig’s Casting Could Mean For Netflix’s and Gerwig’s Chronicles of Narnia
The Actor Has A Complex Relationship With The Streamer
In terms of who Craig could be playing in Gerwig’s The Chronicles of Narnia adaptation, there are several potential options from the novels who he may play. One potential character could be Professor Digory Kirke, the owner of the country home that the Pevensies are evacuated to during the Blitz, and played a major part in creating the pᴀssage to Narnia. An even more impactful role that Craig could be playing is providing the voice of Aslan himself, the true king and shaper of Narnia.
However, beyond whom he may be playing, Craig’s past criticisms and differences with Netflix must be taken into consideration. While he has now worked with the company on two entries in Rian Johnson’s Knives Out series, he had vocal disagreements with Netflix’s executives over their lack of a significant theatrical release. As such, his openness to take what could be a potentially major, multi-movie role in Gerwig’s The Chronicles of Narnia adaptation either shows his eagerness to work with Netflix, or that the streamer has offered him significant changes that meet his demands.
Our Take On Craig’s Potential Narnia Role
The Actor’s Post-Bond Reputation Has Impressed Many
Alongside just who he may be playing and what Netflix may be offering him, Craig would be an incredible addition to Netflix’s potential Chronicles of Narnia adaptation. Even with his James Bond tenure, the actor has earned just as much acclaim and recognition for his portrayal of Knives Out‘s Benoit Blanc and his role in Queer. As such, with his post-James Bond career offering a greater showcase of his range, many viewers may be drawn to Gerwig’s Chronicles of Narnia just to see Craig’s performance.
Source: ᴅᴇᴀᴅline
The Chronicles of Narnia
- Created by
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C.S. Lewis
- First Film
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The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
- Latest Film
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The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
- First TV Show
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The Chronicles of Narnia
- First Episode Air Date
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November 13, 1988
Summary
The Chronicles of Narnia is a fantasy franchise based on the seven-book series written by C.S. Lewis between 1950 and 1956. The series is set in the magical world of Narnia, where children from our world are transported to fulfill prophecies, battle evil forces, and restore peace under the guidance of Aslan, a mystical lion. The franchise has seen multiple adaptations, including a BBC television series in the late 1980s, three major Hollywood films between 2005 and 2010, and an upcoming reboot by Netflix, which has generated significant anticipation. The franchise is beloved for its rich allegorical storytelling, blending Christian themes with epic fantasy elements.
