In a surprising turn of events, Meghan Markle has expressed her desire to secure the role of Winifred Banks in the upcoming Mary Poppins sequel.
This announcement comes just hours after the passing of Glynis Johns, the original actress who portrayed the suffragette mother of Jane and Michael Banks in the beloved 1964 classic.
Johns, who passed away at the age of 100 in a Los Angeles assisted living facility, leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the film industry.
Residing in Los Angeles with Prince Harry and their two children, Meghan had been persistently lobbying Disney and the filmmakers for the Winifred Banks role for months.
She viewed this opportunity as a chance to revive her acting career and leverage it for her causes.
Additionally, Meghan believed that landing this role would enhance her popularity, credibility, and even potentially increase her chances of winning an Oscar.
However, Meghan’s plans were swiftly halted when she encountered Mitch CLM, Johns’ manager of over 50 years.
Disney had informed CLM of their intentions to pay tribute to Johns in the sequel by utilizing original footage and voice recordings to bring her character back to life.
Touched by this gesture, CLM cooperated with Disney and denied Meghan’s demands.
He openly criticized her behavior, stating that she lacked talent, class, and respect, making her unfit for the role of Winifred Banks or any other part.
CLM emphasized Johns’ legendary status, her illustrious career, and the immense love she received from fans and colleagues throughout the years.
CLM wasted no time in reporting Meghan’s actions to Disney and the filmmakers, which ultimately led to her immediate ban from the studio.
He also expressed his astonishment at Meghan’s belief that marrying Prince Harry would automatically grant her lead roles and pave the way to an Oscar.
CLM dismissed Meghan’s claims, asserting that her previous acting opportunities were solely due to the influence of her ex-husband Trevor and her father.
He further criticized her lack of acting skills and her audacity in expecting others to unquestioningly follow her directions.
Following this incident, a statement was issued condemning Meghan’s behavior while expressing condolences to Johns’ family.
The filmmakers confirmed their commitment to proceed with the tribute and dedicate the Mary Poppins sequel to Johns’ memory.
Titled Mary Poppins Returns Again, the film is set for release in 2025 and will feature Emily Blunt reprising her role as Poppins, alongside Lin-Manuel Miranda as Jack, Ben Whishaw as Michael Banks, Emily Mortimer as Jane Banks, and Julie Walters as Ellen.
Additionally, cameo appearances from d–k Van Dyke, Angela Lansbury, Colin Firth, and Meryl Streep are expected, as they reprise their respective roles.
The storyline of the sequel revolves around Mary Poppins returning to London 25 years later to assist the grown-up Banks children and their families as they face a new crisis.
To honor Glynis Johns’ contribution to the original film, archival footage and voice recordings will be used to include her character, Winifred Banks, in the sequel.