Disney recently unveiled the first teaser trailer of Mufasa: The Lion King, a prequel to the 2019 photorealistic rendition of The Lion King. They also announced the addition of Blue Ivy Carter to the voice cast. Helmed by Moonlight director Barry Jenkins, Mufasa delves into the backstory of the iconic lion, charting his formative years alongside his brother Taka, later known as Scar, the primary antagonist in The Lion King. This prequel sets the stage for the 2019 live-action adaptation of The Lion King, where Donald Glover and Beyoncé portrayed adult Simba and Nala.
In Mufasa: The Lion King, Blue Ivy Carter takes on the role of Kiara, the offspring of King Simba and Queen Nala. The narrative, blending live-action elements with computer-generated imagery, follows shaman Rafiki recounting Mufasa's orphaned upbringing through flashbacks, as he encounters his brother Taka, alias Scar. The teaser immerses viewers in the lush world of the animal kingdom, introducing Mufasa and hinting at the pivotal role he plays in shaping the destiny of his realm. While fans anticipate a deeper exploration of Mufasa's ascent to kingship and his intricate dynamic with Scar, the trailer remains tight-lipped on specific plot details.
Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr lend their voices to the younger incarnations of Mufasa and Scar respectively, with James Earl Jones reprising his role as Mufasa's voice. Jeremy Irons and Chiwetel Ejiofor previously voiced Scar in the 1994 original and 2019 remake.
Returning to reprise their roles from the 2019 rendition are John Kani as Rafiki, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, Billy Eichner as Timon, Donald Glover as Simba, and Beyonce Knowles-Carter as Nala. Joining the ensemble are new additions, including Tiffany Boone as Sarabi, Kagiso Lediga as Young Rafiki, and Preston Nyman as Zazu. Notable newcomers feature Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros, Thandiwe Newton as Taka's mother, Eshe, and Lennie James as Taka's father, Obasi.
The original 1994 Lion King amassed $960 million globally, while its 2019 remake soared to $1.6 billion at the box office.