Barry Keoghan Set to Don the Mad Hatter’s Hat in New ‘Alice in Wonderland’ Film
Barry Keoghan, the acclaimed Irish actor, is no stranger to the silver screen, having carved out a significant career over the past 15 years. However, it’s arguably since 2021 that his star has truly ascended, delivering a string of critically lauded performances that have cemented his status as a leading man. From his impactful role in Marvel’s Eternals to his memorable turns in The Batman, The Banshees of Inisherin, and the provocative Saltburn, Keoghan has consistently captivated audiences.
More recently, fans have seen Keoghan share the screen with Cillian Murphy in Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, where he portrays Tommy Shelby’s son. While these projects have been met with widespread acclaim, the actor has now officially confirmed his next major undertaking, sparking considerable anticipation within the film community.
From Teasers to Confirmation: The Mad Hatter Beckons
After years of subtly hinting at his involvement, Barry Keoghan has now definitively announced his intention to embody the iconic Mad Hatter in a forthcoming film set within the beloved Alice in Wonderland universe. The 33-year-old actor shared this exciting news during an appearance on Heart Radio, revealing that the project, tentatively titled ‘Mad’, will focus squarely on the enigmatic character of the Mad Hatter himself. Amanda Holden, present during the interview, expressed her enthusiastic approval, stating she could readily envision Keoghan in the role.
This official confirmation is a welcome development for fans, who have been treated to a series of intriguing teasers from Keoghan for quite some time. His appearance at the 2024 Met Gala, where he fully embraced the eccentric persona of the Mad Hatter, served as a particularly memorable prelude to this announcement.
Stepping into Iconic Footsteps
Keoghan faces the considerable task of stepping into the oversized shoes – and perhaps the equally oversized top hat – of a character previously brought to life by other notable actors. Most notably, Johnny Depp delivered a memorable performance as the Mad Hatter in Tim Burton’s 2010 live-action adaptation of Alice in Wonderland and its subsequent sequel, Alice Through the Looking Glass. The legacy of these portrayals adds an intriguing layer of expectation to Keoghan’s upcoming interpretation.
While specific details surrounding the ‘Mad’ project remain scarce, the rumour mill has been churning. In 2025, reports suggested that Keoghan’s ex-girlfriend, singer and actress Sabrina Carpenter, might also be involved in a production related to the Alice in Wonderland narrative.
A Parallel Wonderland Project?
Further adding to the intrigue, a report from Variety in November 2025 indicated that Sabrina Carpenter was slated to lead her first major studio film, described as an Alice in Wonderland-style musical. This project is said to draw inspiration from Lewis Carroll’s fantastical novel, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Renowned director Lorene Scafaria was reportedly attached to write and direct this musical endeavour.
The potential overlap or connection between Keoghan’s Mad Hatter film and Carpenter’s musical project remains to be seen, adding another layer of anticipation for fans eager to explore new interpretations of this timeless literary world. Keoghan’s career trajectory, marked by bold choices and compelling performances, suggests that his take on the Mad Hatter is likely to be both unique and unforgettable.
Keoghan’s Recent Engagements
Beyond the forthcoming Mad Hatter project, Barry Keoghan has demonstrated a keen eye for diverse and challenging roles. His recent engagement with the play Hamnet, where he was observed watching Jessie Buckley’s performance, highlighted his continued appreciation for the craft of acting and his presence within the broader theatrical and cinematic landscape. This observation, shared by many, suggests Keoghan remains a dedicated observer and participant in the arts, much like any other enthusiast.
