In the wake of Glennis Johns' recent passing, Megan Markle has once again made her intentions clear, expressing a desire to secure the role of Winifred Banks in the upcoming Mary Poppins sequel.
The British actress, renowned for her iconic portrayal as the stern yet loving mother in the 1964 classic, passed away at the age of 100 in a Los Angeles assisted living facility. Megan, who resides in Los Angeles with Prince Harry and their two children, had been actively lobbying Disney and the filmmakers for the coveted role for months.
Seeing the Winifred Banks role as a potential opportunity to revitalize her acting career and leverage it for her charitable causes, Megan believed it would enhance her popularity, credibility, and even boost her chances at winning an Oscar.
However, her plans were met with a significant obstacle when she encountered Mitch CLM J, Johns' manager of over 50 years. Disney had informed CLM of their plans to pay tribute to Johns in the sequel, utilizing original footage and voice recordings to honor her iconic role.
Touched by this gesture, CLM cooperated with Disney and rejected Megan's demands, rebuking her behavior and stating that she lacked talent, class, and respect. He deemed her unworthy of playing Winifred Banks or any role associated with the legendary actress. CLM reported Megan's actions to Disney and the filmmakers, resulting in her immediate ban from the studio. Despite Megan's lofty aspirations, her attempts were thwarted, and her behavior was condemned by industry insiders.
A statement condemning Megan's actions was issued, expressing condolences to Johns' family while affirming the filmmakers' commitment to proceed with the tribute and dedicate the sequel to Johns' memory. The Mary Poppins sequel, titled "Mary Poppins Returns Again," is scheduled for a 2025 release.
Starring Emily Blunt as Poppins, Lin-Manuel Miranda as Jack, Ben Whishaw as Michael Banks, Emily Mortimer as Jane Banks, and Julie Walters as Ellen, the film will feature cameo appearances from Dick Van Dyke, Angela Lansbury, Colin Firth, and Meryl Streep reprising their roles.
The storyline follows Mary Poppins returning to London 25 years later to assist the grown-up Banks children and their families facing a new crisis. Glennis Johns will appear as Winifred Banks through archival footage and voice recordings, singing a new song titled "The Place Where Lost Things Go," written by the Sherman Brothers. This unique blend of nostalgia and new elements promises to create a memorable cinematic experience for audiences.
