In 2022, Netflix debuted an adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s acclaimed graphic novel series “The Sandman.” The show follows Morpheus (Tom Sturridge), one of the seven “Endless” that embody and control the forces of nature. Morpheus is the lord of dreams, and when he’s captured, his realm of dreams is sent into absolute chaos. Aside from Morpheus and his other Endless siblings, a popular character from Gaiman’s comic is Lucifer, the ruler of Hell. Since both have existed in the DC Comics continuity, Tom Ellis’ version of Lucifer is loosely based on Gaiman’s work, and some fans wondered why Ellis wasn’t brought back to play Lucifer in “The Sandman.” However, the reason is quite simple: The character Ellis portrayed is simply too different from the one in “The Sandman.”
On Twitter, a fan asked Gaiman to explain why Ellis was recast. He responded, “Because his Lucifer, while inspired by the Lucifer in Sandman, is so far away in terms of Sandman continuity by the end of LUCIFER [sic], that it’s easier on everyone to go back to the version in the comics.” Plus, by seeing an entirely new version of Lucifer, fans are now able to have a new experience when watching “The Sandman.”
Gaiman said that he still admires the “lovable” version of Lucifer that Ellis played, but he knew that recasting the character was the right choice. Therefore, “Game of Thrones” actress Gwendoline Christie was brought in as a colder and more brutal Lucifer — one that’s more accurate to the story from “The Sandman.”
Tom Ellis shot to stardom after playing Lucifer Morningstar on “Lucifer,” but he stepped out of the spotlight a bit after the show ended. Here’s why. Read More