Keira Knightley to Voice Tinker Bell for Syfy's 'Neverland'
by Elizabeth Sexton
Keira Knightley will breathe life into the role of Tinker Bell during a four-hour live action prequel to “Peter Pan.”
The Syfy program, “Neverland” reveals the origin of one of the most cherished (and arguably envied) characters of all time. Set in a Dickensian-like London, Peter and his posse of young pickpockets are sent on an exotic mission by mentor Jimmy Hook.
While snatching a magical orb for Hook, they are transported to another world – Neverland. They travel through white jungles and massive cities formed out of trees, encountering friends and enemies, like 18th century pirates who are searching for the answer to eternal youth.
They fight to protect the secret and begin to realize that growing old somewhere in time may be less in important than saving their new home, Neverland.
Knightley joins current cast members Rhys Ifans, Anna Friel, Bob Hoskins, Charles Dance, Raoul Trujillo and Charlie Rowe. “Neverland” is set to air on Syfy in December 2011.
In the original version of Peter Pan, Tinker Bell was described as a fairy who mended pots and kettles, like an actual tinker. She was depicted in productions with the reflection of a mirror and lamp, and her voice was actual bells.
The character has since evolved throughout renditions and spin-offs of the story. It was rumored that Disney’s cartoon version was modeled after Marilyn Monroe; however, Disney animators say the inspiration was actress Margaret Kerry. Julia Roberts added magic to role in Hook in 1991. Knightley will be recording her role as the magical tree spirit this spring.