As anticipation builds for the upcoming production of “Shadowlands,” Hugh Bonneville and Maggie Siff have been announced as the lead actors portraying C.S. Lewis and Joy Davidman in William Nicholson‘s beloved play. Bonneville, recognized for his roles in “Downton Abbey,” “Paddington,” and “W1A,” brings his BAFTA, Primetime Emmy, and Golden Globe-nominated talents to the role of the famous author. Siff, known for her performances in “Mad Men,” “Sons of Anarchy,” and “Billions,” will portray Lewis’s wife, Joy Davidman.
Acclaimed performers Hugh Bonneville and Maggie Siff bring their considerable talents to Nicholson’s poignant love story as C.S. Lewis and Joy Davidman.
The production has also confirmed several supporting cast members. Jeff Rawle, recognized from “Drop the Dead Donkey,” “Doc Martin,” and the “Harry Potter” series, will play Major W.H. Lewis (Warnie).
Tony Jayawardena, whose credits include “Nye,” “Bend It Like Beckham,” and RSC’s “The Tempest,” joins as Rev. Harry Harrington. Timothy Watson has been cast as Professor Christopher Riley.
The ensemble cast includes Rebecca Blackstone, Nigel Fyfe, Jemma Geanaus, Sharan Phull, Leighton Pugh, Fode Simbo, Ernest Stroud, and Giles Taylor, creating a robust supporting company for the production.
For the role of Douglas, Joy Davidman’s 8-year-old son, three young actors will alternate performances: Ayrton English, Nathan Jago, and Louis Wilkins. Douglas represents an integral family dynamic in the narrative, connecting the audience to Joy’s life beyond her relationship with Lewis.
Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, “Shadowlands” will run at London’s Aldwych Theatre from February 5 to May 9, 2026. The production is adapted from Nicholson’s BAFTA Award-winning television movie that later became a West End smash-hit. The highly anticipated revival aims to introduce this poignant story to a new generation of theatre-goers. The performance schedule includes Tuesday through Saturday evening shows, with matinees on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays beginning February 17.
The play explores the touching love story between C.S. Lewis and American poet Joy Davidman, presenting an uplifting journey that examines love and the fragility of life.
This production marks a significant theatrical event in London’s West End, bringing together an accomplished cast to tell this moving biographical story.
Full casting has now been announced, completing the ensemble for this highly-anticipated production that promises to deliver a powerful theatrical experience to London audiences.
