Beyond The Wardrobe: Unveiling The Original Narnia Cast

Harmony Herzog 27 Jun 2025

The world of Narnia, a realm of talking animals, mythical creatures, and epic battles between good and evil, first captivated millions through C.S. Lewis's beloved book series. When Disney and Walden Media brought "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" to the big screen in 2005, it wasn't just a cinematic event; it was a magical journey that introduced a new generation to the Pevensie children and the enchanting land they discovered. At the heart of this enduring magic was the incredible Narnia cast, whose performances breathed life into these iconic characters, making them unforgettable.

As we stand on the cusp of a new era for Narnia, with Netflix on the verge of creating its own expansive Narnia universe, it’s the perfect moment to look back at the original stars who first stepped through that magical wardrobe. From the brave Pevensie siblings to the formidable White Witch and the wise Aslan, these actors left an indelible mark on cinematic history. Join us as we delve into the lives and careers of the beloved Narnia cast, exploring their journey into this fantasy world, their roles, and where their paths have led them since their adventures in Narnia.

The Enduring Legacy of Narnia's First Film
The Pevensie Children: Pillars of Narnia's Magic
Iconic Supporting Narnia Cast Members
Life After Narnia: Where Are They Now?
The Chronicles of Narnia: A Literary Foundation
The Future of Narnia: Netflix's New Universe
The Enduring Appeal of the Narnia Cast

The Enduring Legacy of Narnia's First Film

The 2005 fantasy blockbuster, "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe," took us on the adventure of a lifetime along with its beloved Narnia cast. This film series was based on the widely popular book series by C.S. Lewis, published between 1950 and 1956, before being adapted for the screen. The initial film introduced us to the Pevensie siblings – Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter – who step through a magical wardrobe and find the land of Narnia. There, they discover a charming, once peaceful kingdom that has been plunged into eternal winter by the evil White Witch, Jadis. Aided by the wise and magnificent lion, Aslan, the children lead Narnia into a spectacular, climactic battle to be free of the Witch's glacial powers forever. The critical and commercial success of the first film paved the way for two sequels: "Prince Caspian" (2008) and "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" (2010). Each film expanded on Lewis's rich narrative, bringing more of Narnia's wonders and challenges to life. The consistency and chemistry of the Narnia cast, particularly the Pevensie children, were central to the series' appeal, allowing audiences to grow with the characters as they matured and faced new adventures. The dedication of the Narnia cast to their roles helped ground the fantastical elements in genuine emotion, making the stories resonate deeply with viewers of all ages.

The Pevensie Children: Pillars of Narnia's Magic

The heart of "The Chronicles of Narnia" lies with the four Pevensie siblings, who transition from ordinary children to the kings and queens of Narnia. Their journey from discovering a magical world to leading its liberation is central to the narrative, and the young actors chosen for these roles carried the immense responsibility of bringing these iconic literary figures to life. Let's delve into the lives of the actors who formed the core of the Narnia cast.

William Moseley as Peter Pevensie: The High King

William Moseley embodied Peter Pevensie, the eldest of the Pevensie siblings, who matures from a protective older brother into the valiant High King Peter. His character arc is one of the most significant, showcasing growth from doubt to unwavering leadership.

Biography of William Moseley

William Peter Moseley was born on April 27, 1987, in Gloucester, England, to Juliette (Fleming) and Peter Moseley, a cinematographer. His early life was immersed in a creative environment, given his father's profession. Before joining the Narnia cast, Moseley appeared in uncredited roles in two TV movies, gaining early exposure to the film industry. His casting as Peter Pevensie was a pivotal moment, launching him onto the global stage. He returned for the two Narnia sequels, solidifying his place in the fantasy genre.

Personal Data & Biodata: William Moseley

Full Name	William Peter Moseley
Date of Birth	April 27, 1987
Place of Birth	Sheepscombe, Gloucestershire, England
Nationality	British
Occupation	Actor
Known For	Peter Pevensie in The Chronicles of Narnia film series

Anna Popplewell as Susan Pevensie: The Gentle Queen

Anna Popplewell portrayed Susan Pevensie, the second eldest, known for her practicality and gentle nature, who becomes Queen Susan the Gentle. Her character often serves as the voice of reason among her siblings, though she ultimately chooses a different path from Narnia in later years.

Biography of Anna Popplewell

Anna Katherine Popplewell was born on December 16, 1988, in London, England. She began acting at a young age, appearing in several television productions and films before joining the Narnia cast. Her roles included "Mansfield Park" (1999) and "Girl with a Pearl Earring" (2003). Her portrayal of Susan was praised for its depth, capturing the character's blend of strength and skepticism. Like Moseley, she reprised her role in the subsequent Narnia films.

Personal Data & Biodata: Anna Popplewell

Full Name	Anna Katherine Popplewell
Date of Birth	December 16, 1988
Place of Birth	London, England
Nationality	British
Occupation	Actress
Known For	Susan Pevensie in The Chronicles of Narnia film series

Skandar Keynes as Edmund Pevensie: The Just King

Skandar Keynes brought to life Edmund Pevensie, whose journey is perhaps the most transformative. Starting as a mischievous and somewhat selfish boy, he learns humility and courage, eventually becoming King Edmund the Just.

Biography of Skandar Keynes

Alexander Amin Casper Keynes, known professionally as Skandar Keynes, was born on September 5, 1991, in London, England. He comes from a distinguished family background; his great-great-grandfather was the renowned economist John Maynard Keynes, and he is a descendant of Charles Darwin. Skandar's acting career began with minor roles before he secured the part of Edmund. His nuanced performance of Edmund's redemption arc was a highlight of the Narnia cast. After "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader," Keynes largely stepped away from acting to pursue academic interests, demonstrating a rare commitment to education over continued Hollywood fame.

Personal Data & Biodata: Skandar Keynes

Full Name	Alexander Amin Casper Keynes
Date of Birth	September 5, 1991
Place of Birth	London, England
Nationality	British
Occupation	Former Actor, Political Advisor
Known For	Edmund Pevensie in The Chronicles of Narnia film series

Georgie Henley as Lucy Pevensie: The Valiant Queen

Georgie Henley played Lucy Pevensie, the youngest of the Pevensie children. Lucy is full of childlike imagination and wonder, and she is the first to step into the world of Narnia and the first to meet one of its inhabitants, Mr. Tumnus. Her pure heart and unwavering faith in Narnia are central to the story.

Biography of Georgie Henley

Georgina Helen Henley was born on July 9, 1995, in Ilkley, West Yorkshire, England. She was the youngest of the main Narnia cast members and had no prior professional acting experience before being cast as Lucy. Her natural charm and innocence perfectly captured the essence of Lucy, making her an instant favorite among audiences. She continued to portray Lucy throughout all three films, growing up on screen alongside her character.

Personal Data & Biodata: Georgie Henley

Full Name	Georgina Helen Henley
Date of Birth	July 9, 1995
Place of Birth	Ilkley, West Yorkshire, England
Nationality	British
Occupation	Actress
Known For	Lucy Pevensie in The Chronicles of Narnia film series

Iconic Supporting Narnia Cast Members

While the Pevensie children were the heart of the Narnia cast, the films were also elevated by an array of talented actors who brought other beloved characters to life. These performances were crucial in establishing the rich, magical world of Narnia. * **Tilda Swinton as Jadis, The White Witch:** Move over, Tilda Swinton — there’s a new icy villain in town, but for many, Swinton's portrayal of Jadis remains the definitive one. Her performance as the tyrannical White Witch was chillingly captivating, perfectly embodying the character's cruel beauty and formidable power. Swinton's ability to convey both seductive charm and terrifying malice made her a standout in the Narnia cast, earning critical acclaim and cementing her as one of cinema's most memorable villains. * **James McAvoy as Mr. Tumnus:** The gentle faun, Mr. Tumnus, was brought to life by James McAvoy. His sensitive and nuanced performance as Lucy's first Narnian friend immediately endeared him to audiences. McAvoy perfectly captured Tumnus's initial moral conflict and eventual loyalty, making him a beloved figure. This role was an early highlight in McAvoy's career before he became a major Hollywood star. * **Liam Neeson as the Voice of Aslan:** The wise and magnificent lion, Aslan, the true king of Narnia, was voiced by the incomparable Liam Neeson. Neeson's deep, resonant voice imbued Aslan with the gravitas, compassion, and authority necessary for the character. His vocal performance was instrumental in conveying Aslan's divine presence and moral guidance, making him a powerful and comforting figure for the Narnia cast and the audience alike. * **Other Notable Members:** The Narnia cast also featured a host of other talented actors, including Jim Broadbent as Professor Kirke, Kiran Shah as Ginarrbrik, and the voices of various creatures that populated Narnia, all contributing to the immersive experience of the films.

Life After Narnia: Where Are They Now?

One of the most frequently asked questions about the original stars of the 2005 fantasy film series based on C.S. Lewis's books is: "What happened to them?" It's fascinating to see who stayed in Hollywood, who quit acting, and who joined the Marvel universe. * **William Moseley (Peter Pevensie):** After his reign as High King Peter, William Moseley continued his acting career, primarily in film and television. He starred in films like "The Royals" (2015-2018), a popular E! Network drama series where he played Prince Liam. He has also appeared in various independent films and television movies, showcasing his versatility beyond fantasy roles. Moseley has maintained a steady presence in the industry, proving his enduring talent. * **Anna Popplewell (Susan Pevensie):** Following her time as Queen Susan, Anna Popplewell pursued higher education, attending Magdalen College, Oxford, where she studied English Literature. While she took a break from extensive acting during her studies, she returned to the screen with roles such as Lola in the CW series "Reign" (2013-2016), a historical drama that allowed her to explore a different genre. She continues to act in various projects, balancing her passion for performance with other interests. * **Skandar Keynes (Edmund Pevensie):** Skandar Keynes's path diverged significantly from his fellow Narnia cast members. After completing "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader," he decided to step away from acting to focus on his education. He attended the University of Cambridge, graduating with a degree in Arabic and Middle Eastern Studies. He has since pursued a career in politics and public service, working as a parliamentary aide for a Member of Parliament in the UK. While he occasionally participates in Narnia-related events, his primary focus is no longer acting, making his journey unique among the group. Interestingly, the data provided mentions an actor appearing in major movies like "Arthur Christmas," "Glass," "Split," "It Chapter Two," and "Muppets Most Wanted." While Skandar Keynes did voice a character in "Arthur Christmas," the other film credits listed ("Glass," "Split," "It Chapter Two," "Muppets Most Wanted") actually belong to James McAvoy, who played Mr. Tumnus, not Skandar Keynes. This highlights how some Narnia cast members have indeed gone on to join the Marvel universe (McAvoy as Professor X in the X-Men films) and other major franchises. * **Georgie Henley (Lucy Pevensie):** Georgie Henley also balanced acting with education, attending Clare College, Cambridge, where she studied English. She has continued to act in films and stage productions. Notable post-Narnia roles include "The Sisterhood of Night" (2014) and "Perfect Sisters" (2014). She has also ventured into directing, showcasing her expanding creative talents. Henley has maintained a strong connection to her Narnia roots, often participating in fan events and reunions, reflecting on her transformative experience as part of the Narnia cast.

The Chronicles of Narnia: A Literary Foundation

The success of the Narnia films, and indeed the enduring appeal of its Narnia cast, rests firmly on the literary genius of C.S. Lewis. "The Chronicles of Narnia" includes seven books in total, with Lewis first publishing "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" in 1950, then following that with several sequels. These books are not merely children's stories; they are rich allegories exploring themes of good versus evil, sacrifice, redemption, and faith. The chronological order of the books is often debated, but Lewis's original publication order begins with "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe." However, "The Magician’s Nephew," despite being the sixth book in C.S. Lewis’s "The Chronicles of Narnia" series, is actually the first chronologically, and follows two children, Digory Kirke and Polly, revealing the creation of Narnia itself. Understanding the depth of the source material helps appreciate the efforts of the Narnia cast and crew in translating such a beloved and complex world to the screen. The films aimed to be faithful adaptations, capturing the spirit and magic that millions of readers had cherished for decades.

The Future of Narnia: Netflix's New Universe

With newer Narnia adaptations on the horizon, it's due time to look back at the Disney adaptations' characters and cast. The future of Narnia is bright, with Netflix on the verge of creating its own Narnia universe. This ambitious project aims to adapt all seven books, offering a comprehensive and potentially long-running series. Narniaweb has obtained and independently verified the authenticity of a new casting call for Netflix’s Narnia film, which is scheduled to begin filming this July in the United Kingdom. The search for the film’s child leads continues, but it has now expanded to include three characters, indicating a broad scope for the new adaptations. This new iteration promises a fresh perspective on the beloved stories, potentially introducing a new generation of fans to the magic of Narnia. It also raises exciting questions about how the new Narnia cast will compare to the original and how they will interpret these iconic roles. The upcoming Narnia film has reached a key milestone, signaling that production is well underway, and anticipation is building for what promises to be a significant revival of the franchise.

The Enduring Appeal of the Narnia Cast

Get ready for a magical reunion as the beloved Narnia cast of "The Chronicles of Narnia" comes together once again, swords and shields in hand, to reflect on their legacy. The original Narnia cast holds a special place in the hearts of fans because they were the first to truly bring C.S. Lewis's characters to life in a major cinematic way. Their performances captured the innocence, courage, and wonder that define the Pevensie siblings and the magical world they inhabit. The chemistry between William Moseley, Anna Popplewell, Skandar Keynes, and Georgie Henley was undeniable, making their on-screen sibling bond feel authentic and deeply moving. They grew up alongside their characters, allowing audiences to witness their transformation from ordinary children into the kings and queens of Narnia. This shared experience, both for the actors and the audience, created a powerful connection that transcends the screen. Even as new adaptations emerge, the original Narnia cast will always be remembered for setting the standard and for being the faces that first led us through the wardrobe into the enchanting realm of Narnia. Their dedication to their roles and the magic they created continue to resonate with fans worldwide.

Conclusion

The journey through "The Chronicles of Narnia" on screen was a monumental achievement, largely thanks to the dedicated and talented Narnia cast. From the Pevensie children who navigated a magical land to the iconic supporting characters like the White Witch and Aslan, each actor contributed significantly to the immersive and beloved world we witnessed. We've explored their individual paths, their early lives, their pivotal roles, and where their careers have taken them since their adventures in Narnia. As Netflix prepares to open the wardrobe once more with new adaptations, the legacy of the original Narnia cast remains strong. Their performances not only entertained millions but also cemented their place in cinematic history as the first to truly embody the spirit of C.S. Lewis's timeless tales. Their impact reminds us of the power of storytelling and the magic that happens when the right actors bring cherished characters to life. What are your favorite memories of the original Narnia cast? Which character's journey resonated most with you? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And if you're eager to revisit the magic, be sure to rewatch the original films or delve back into C.S. Lewis's books. Stay tuned for more updates on the upcoming Netflix Narnia universe, and let's keep the spirit of Narnia alive!

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