The Internet is ablaze with speculation about who might play the iconic roles in the upcoming live action remake of Disney’s classic film The Lion King. The original film released in 1994 was a massive success winning two Academy Awards and becoming the highest grossing film of that year. The movie’s popularity has only grown in the intervening years thanks in part to its release on home video and the highly successful Broadway adaptation.
Now that a new Lion King is on the way fans are wondering who will be tapped to fill the shoes of original stars like Matthew Broderick (Simba) Whoopi Goldberg (Shenzi) and Jeremy Irons (Scar). While no official casting announcements have been made there has been plenty of speculation about who might be in the running for these iconic roles.
Here are some of the actors who have been rumored for the upcoming Lion King remake:
Donald Glover as Simba
Fans have been clamoring for Donald Glover to play Simba since the news of the remake was first announced. Glover who is best known for his work on the TV show Community and as the rapper Childish Gambino has the perfect mix of charisma and talent to make him a perfect fit for the role. He has already shown his vocal chops in the animated film The LEGO Movie where he played Batman and he has the acting chops to convincingly portray Simba’s journey from wide-eyed cub to rightful king.
Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar
Chiwetel Ejiofor is one of the most acclaimed actors working today with roles in films like 12 Years a Slave American Gangster and Children of Men. He has the gravitas and presence to convincingly portray Scar Simba’s power-hungry uncle who murders his brother Mufasa in order to take over the Pride Lands. Ejiofor’s Scar would be a menacing and formidable foe and his performance would no doubt be Oscar-worthy.
Lupita Nyong’o as Nala
Lupita Nyong’o is another Oscar-winning actress who has been rumored for a role in the remake. She is reportedly being considered for the role of Nala Simba’s best friend and eventual love interest. Nyong’o proved her acting chops in 12 Years a Slave and she has the charisma and beauty to make her a perfect fit for the role of Nala.
These are just a few of the actors who have been rumored for roles in the upcoming Lion King remake. No official announcements have been made yet so we’ll have to wait and see who Disney ultimately decides to cast in this highly anticipated film.
Who is the protagonist of the film?
Simba is the protagonist.
Who is the antagonist of the film?
Scar is the antagonist.
Who is Simba’s father?
Mufasa is Simba’s father.
Who is Simba’s mother?
Sarabi is Simba’s mother.
Who is Simba’s best friend?
Nala is Simba’s best friend.
Who is Simba’s love interest?
Nala is Simba’s love interest.
Who raises Simba after Mufasa’s death?
Timon and Pumbaa raise Simba.
Who is the villain’s henchman?
Zazu is the villain’s henchman.
What does Simba fail to do that results in Mufasa’s death?
Simba fails to listen to Mufasa’s warnings and gets caught in a stampede.
How does Mufasa die?
Mufasa dies after being trampled by a stampede of wildebeests.
What does the villain do to Simba after killing Mufasa?
The villain Scar throws Simba off a cliff leaving him for dead.
How does Simba escape death?
Simba is saved by Timon and Pumbaa and taken in by them.
What does Simba do when he returns to Pride Rock?
Simba defeats Scar and takes his rightful place as king.
Who helps Simba during the battle against Scar?
Nala Timon and Pumbaa all help Simba during the battle.
What does Simba name his firstborn child?
Simba names his firstborn child after his father Mufasa.
