Meryl Streep, Colman Domingo, Bill Hader Join ‘Lincoln in the Bardo’ Animated Cast

Meryl Streep Joins ‘Lincoln in the Bardo’ Cast

Academy Award-winning actress Meryl Streep, along with Colman Domingo and Bill Hader, has been officially confirmed as part of the voice cast for the upcoming animated and live-action film, Lincoln in the Bardo. This announcement was made by The Hollywood Reporter on September 3, 2026. Directed by Duke Johnson, the project is produced by Starburns Industries and features an impressive ensemble of A-list talent.

Colman Domingo Takes on a Historical Role

Colman Domingo will voice Thomas Havens, a ghost representing a former slave seeking a transformative union with President Abraham Lincoln. This character’s perspective is vital as it adds depth to the storytelling by intertwining personal and historical narratives.

Bill Hader and Other Notable Cast Members

Bill Hader is set to voice Eddie Baron, as well as one of the Three Rakes. The film also features Tom Waits, who will voice Jaspar Randall, a ghost from the past trying to capture Willie Lincoln. Additionally, Tom Hanks is confirmed to star as Abraham Lincoln in the live-action segments of the film, with Willem Dafoe, Jonathan Bailey, and Peter Dinklage contributing their voices to the animated portion of the movie.

Context of ‘Lincoln in the Bardo’

Lincoln in the Bardo explores the grief of President Lincoln following the death of his 11-year-old son, Willie. The film is based on the acclaimed novel by George Saunders, whose screenplay Johnson will adapt. Combining stop-motion animation with live-action, it aims to present a unique visual experience, illustrating how love and empathy can persist amid profound loss. The production team’s synopsis highlights the film's ambition to blend history and imagination, enriching the audience's understanding of Lincoln's emotional landscape during this period.

The casting of such a high-profile lineup suggests that the film aims not only to tell a personal story but also to delve into broader themes of human connection and grief.

Meryl Streep, Colman Domingo, Bill Hader: Industry Impact and Audience Expectations

The combination of such talented actors raises expectations for a film that will likely resonate deeply with audiences, offering both historical insights and emotional narratives. The involvement of Starburns Industries and the reputations of producers like Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman further imply that the project is positioned as a significant piece of cinema.

The film is also expected to attract attention at upcoming markets like TIFF: The Market, where it is being handled by CAA Media Finance and WME Independent for sales. As the film approaches its release, the rich tapestry of character portrayals and the innovative use of animation should contribute to a compelling viewing experience.

What this means

The addition of Streep, Domingo, Hader, and Waits illustrates the film's ambition and potential for critical acclaim. The melding of live-action with stop-motion animation may position Lincoln in the Bardo as a standout project in both the animation and historical drama genres. As more details about the film's release emerge, it will be essential for audiences and industry insiders to follow how this ensemble cast and innovative storytelling approach unfold in what promises to be an emotionally charged narrative.

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