‘The Lion King’ Cast List Announced

Well, guys, it’s happening. The Lion King is getting a live-action movie, despite the fact that CGI is basically animation to begin with. I jest, of course, but I’m still confused with the idea. I just don’t understand who’s looking for this, despite the fact it’s the most profitable animated movie of all time. Still, at least Disney is putting in an effort with the film, considering the director and the cast they’ve announced.

After his success on The Jungle Book, Disney has decided that Jon Favreau should handle the transition for the tale of Simba’s saga. For those worried about the film, Favreau handled the CGI in his last film beautifully, and apparently his test footage for “Circle of Life” presented at Disney’s D23 wowed critics and fans alike. However, what’s really going to make this film work is the cast, and Disney’s certainly not pulling any punches. Our beloved roles will be filled by Donald Glover, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Florence Kasuma, Billy Eichner, Seth Rogen, freakin’ Beyoncé, and naturally, James Earl Jones (again). Many of these decisions are genius, especially Glover, Beyoncé (YASS QUEEN!), Eichner, Eric André, Kasumba, and John Oliver as Zazu the uptight bird. I’m still skeptical about this film, but with that cast and that director, I’m more than willing to give it a shot. The film is scheduled for Summer 2019, and I will have more updates as we go forward. You can see the full cast below.

Donald Glover – Simba
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter – Nala
James Earl Jones – Mufasa
Chiwetel Ejiofor – Scar
Alfre Woodard – Sarabi
John Oliver – Zazu
John Kani – Rafiki
Billy Eichner – Timon
Seth Rogen – Pumbaa
Florence Kasumba – Shenzi
Eric André – Azizi
Keegan-Michael Key – Kamari
JD McCrary – Young Simba
Hamadi Wright Joseph – Young Nala