Netflix is preparing a fresh adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ beloved fantasy series, The Chronicles of Narnia, with Greta Gerwig at the helm. Nearly two decades after the original film adaptations, British actor Ben Barnes, known for portraying Prince Caspian in the 2008 film and its 2010 sequel, has shared his thoughts on the possibility of a new actor playing the iconic role in Gerwig’s reboot. Barnes spoke about this and his potential involvement at the FanX Salt Lake Comic Convention during a panel moderated by Collider’s Maggie Lovitt.
Discussing the legacy of Prince Caspian, Barnes expressed an open and accepting attitude about another actor taking on the role in the new series.
“I did a podcast in the aftermath of the promotion of one of the Narnia movies, and I did a podcast with Sam West, who had played Prince Caspian in the BBC series in 1990 or 1989 or something. And we had a lovely, lovely chat about it. So as long as I can do a podcast with whatever kid they get to play it next time, I’ll be happy.”
?Ben Barnes, Actor
When asked about the possibility of returning for a role in Gerwig’s Narnia films, Barnes acknowledged that there are limited parts for adult men within the story. He suggested an unexpected character he would like to portray instead:
“I would like to be Reepicheep, the mouse. I’ve always loved that character.”
?Ben Barnes, Actor
Currently, Barnes is starring in the MGM+ series The Institute, based on Stephen King’s 2019 novel. The show explores a secretive facility where children with supernatural powers are held.
Understanding the Role and History of Prince Caspian
Prince Caspian is a central figure in the Narnia saga, first introduced in the novel named after him, published in 1951. Though it was the second Narnia book released, it is fourth in the series’ internal chronology. Caspian is the legitimate heir to the Narnian throne, which has been seized by his malicious uncle, Miraz. With help from the Pevensie siblings and the fantastical creatures of Narnia, Caspian fights to reclaim his kingdom.
The character continues his journey as king in later books such as The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, where he embarks on a quest to find allies of his late father, and The Silver Chair, where the Pevensies assist in rescuing Caspian’s missing son. Caspian has been portrayed by several actors over the years: Jean-Marc Perret as the young prince in the 1989 BBC adaptation, Sam West as the older prince in The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Geoffrey Russell as the elderly king in The Silver Chair, and Ben Barnes in the 2008 and 2010 films, where he portrayed Caspian with a different accent.
Upcoming Projects in the Narnia Universe from Greta Gerwig
The next installment in this cinematic universe will be The Magician’s Nephew, the first book chronologically and sixth published in Lewis’ series. Scheduled for release on November 26, 2026, this film will mark Greta Gerwig’s debut as both writer and director for the Narnia films. Emma Mackey has been cast as Jadis, who later becomes the White Witch, and Carey Mulligan will play Mabel Kirke, a key character in the story’s events.
Gerwig’s vision for Narnia has generated substantial anticipation among fans and critics alike, igniting speculation about casting choices, character adaptations, and the overall direction of this fantasy world. The production is underway, with updates expected as the release date draws nearer.
Stay tuned to Collider and other outlets for the latest developments on the Greta Gerwig Narnia reboot and the unfolding future of this classic tale.
