Donald Glover’s career has fully transitioned from musician to actor after another hit television role – which he also created – as well as being cast in multiple huge upcoming franchise movies. Alongside a starring role as a young Lando Calrissian in the standalone Han Solo prequel, it was announced that Glover will be voicing Simba in the (somewhat) live adaptation of The Lion King.
Director Jon Favreau made the announcement earlier this week on twitter, along with the news that James Earl Jones will be reprising his original 1994 Lion King role as Mufasa. While many might question whether the classic movie needs a remake, Favreau has proved he knows how to tell a classic Disney tale in the modern setting, receive acclaim for bringing The Jungle Book to life last year.
While The Lion King will certainly look gorgeous, expectations should vary in comparison to the Jungle Book. Though CGI will certainly make the lions and other animals look “realistic”, there’s literally no human presence in The Lion King, something that helped Favreau’s previous movie feel somewhat more reasonable (even if it was just one boy).
It should be interesting to see how the live action version of Beauty and the Beast fairs later this year, as it could set the table for The Lion King’s success or could sour fans opinion on modernizing classic tales. Either way it doesn’t hurt that the cast list is already as strong as it is with two award winning actors in lead roles.
It’s unclear as to whether Glover will play both young and older Simba, but it’s clear that he is building a solid relationship with Disney, as this will be his second starring role – each in beloved franchises – in the company for 2017. For more news on the upcoming Lion King remake and all of your nerdy news be sure to check back to the site!
