The Lion King Remake Casts Donald Glover and James Earl Jones

Disney’s The Lion King is getting the live-action treatment and found its Simba in Donald Glover, with James Earl Jones reprising his role as Mufasa.

It looks like The Lion King is the next Disney movie to get the live-action treatment. And to that, we say Hakuna Matata. Disney announced in September 2016 that they were moving ahead with a The Lion King remake. Of course, many speculated who of the original cast would join the film.

On Friday, director Jon Favreau put those questions to rest. The incredibly talented and in-demand actor, Donald Glover is set to play Simba. Reprising his role as Mufasa is actor James Earl Jones. Similar to Disney’s remake of The Jungle Book film, The Lion King will use motion-capture technology and CGI to bring the animals to life. Plus, there’s no need to worry about The Lion King‘s famous songs either. Fan favorites like “Circle of Life” or “I Just Can’t Wait to be King” will all be included in the film as well.

Obviously, this marks a banner year for Donald Glover who recently was cast in Spiderman: Homecoming and the heavily anticipated untitled Star Wars Han Solo movie. Recently, Glover received a Golden Globe and Critics Choice Television Award for Best Actor for his highly acclaimed TV show Atlanta.

It’s no wonder Favreau asked Glover to join the cast. Whatever Glover touches turns to gold.

Check out Jon Favreau’s tweets below confirming Donald Glover and James Earl Jones.

Childish Gambino shows his softer Simba side in this announcement. Naturally, James Earl Jones remains steadfast as ever.

Now that we know director Jon Favreau locked down Simba and Mufasa, let’s play a little fan casting.

Since the film is not opposed to adding original cast members, I would love to see Jeremy Irons as Scar, Whoopi Goldberg as Shenzi and Cheech Marin as Banzai. All three made their characters unique and unforgettable. So, not just anyone can fill in for them. Further, Lupita Nyong’o would be perfect to play Nala too. Not to mention, the Star Wars connection is not lost on me. The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt scene stealer, Tituss Burgess, should be considered for the role of Timon. And finally, Oscar winner Viola Davis happens to be the perfect person to play Simba’s mother, Sarabi.

Whoever they decide to cast, I think we can all agree this movie is going to be great!

Next: Beauty and the Beast’s Romance, as Explained by Emma Watson

Tell us in the comments what you think about Disney doing a live action of The Lion King. Who would you cast in the movie?