Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King (2024), directed by Barry Jenkins, expands the Lion King universe as both a prequel and sequel to the 2019 remake.
It explores Mufasa’s journey from a young cub to the king of the Pride Lands. The film features returning cast members alongside new voices, including characters like Simba, Rafiki, Taka (Scar), and Kiros, enriching the story.
Full voice cast list of Mufasa: The Lion King
- Mufasa - Aaron Pierre
- Young Mufasa - Braelyn and Brielle Rankins
- Taka (Scar) - Kelvin Harrison Jr.
- Young Taka - Theo Somolu
- Sarabi - Tiffany Boone
- Rafiki - John Kani
- Young Rafiki - Kagiso Lediga
- Pumbaa - Seth Rogen
- Timon - Billy Eichner
- Kiara - Blue Ivy Carter
- Simba - Donald Glover
- Kiros - Mads Mikkelsen
- Eshe - Thandiwe Newton
- Obasi - Lennie James
- Afia - Anika Noni Rose
- Zazu - Preston Nyman
- Nala - Beyoncé Knowles-Carter
1) Aaron Pierre as Mufasa
Aaron Pierre voices Mufasa in Mufasa: The Lion King, portraying his journey from an orphaned cub to a brave leader protecting his pride. Known for roles in The Underground Railroad and Old, Pierre brings depth to the character's evolution.
2) Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Taka (Scar)
Kelvin Harrison Jr. lends his voice to Taka, Mufasa’s adoptive brother, whose jealousy and insecurities eventually transform him into the villainous Scar. The film explores Taka’s early bond with Mufasa, his feelings of inferiority, and the choices that lead to his betrayal.
Harrison, known for his powerful performances in Luce and The Trial of the Chicago 7, brings a nuanced depth to Taka in Mufasa: The Lion King.
3) Tiffany Boone as Sarabi
Tiffany Boone voices Sarabi, Mufasa’s loyal companion and future queen. In the film, Sarabi plays a crucial role in supporting Mufasa as he navigates the challenges of leadership and in building unity among the pride.
Boone, who has delivered performances in The Chi and Hunters, brings strength and warmth to Sarabi’s character.
4) John Kani as Rafiki
Veteran actor John Kani reprises his role as Rafiki, the wise and mystical mandrill who serves as a spiritual guide to the Pride Lands. In this film, Rafiki narrates Mufasa’s life story to Simba’s daughter, Kiara, blending wisdom with humor.
Kani’s illustrious career, which includes his portrayal of King T’Chaka in Black Panther, and his previous role as Rafiki in the 2019 remake, adds gravitas to the character in Mufasa: The Lion King.
5) Seth Rogen as Pumbaa
Seth Rogen returns as Pumbaa, the lovable warthog known for his humor and loyalty. Alongside Timon, Pumbaa provides comic relief and a lighthearted perspective on the otherwise intense storyline.
Rogen, a renowned comedian and actor with hits like Superbad and This Is the End, continues to infuse Pumbaa with charm and humor, making him a fan favorite.
6) Billy Eichner as Timon
Billy Eichner reprises his role as Timon, the quick-witted meerkat and Pumbaa’s closest friend. Known for his sarcastic remarks and sharp humor, Timon’s commentary on Mufasa’s story adds a playful dynamic to the film.
Eichner, recognized for his work in Billy on the Street and Parks and Recreation, once again showcases his comedic timing and voice in this role.
7) Blue Ivy Carter as Kiara
Blue Ivy Carter makes her feature film debut as Kiara, Simba and Nala’s daughter and the future queen of the Pride Lands. Kiara’s curiosity about her family’s past drives the narrative, as Rafiki shares the story of Mufasa’s rise.
As the daughter of Grammy-winning artist, Blue Ivy brings fresh energy to the character in Mufasa: The Lion King.
8) Donald Glover as Simba
Donald Glover reprises his role as Simba, the current king of Pride Rock and Mufasa’s son. In this film, Simba grapples with the weight of his father’s legacy while guiding his own cubs toward their destinies.
Glover, a multi-talented performer known for Atlanta and his music career as Childish Gambino, continues to portray Simba with a balance of wisdom in Mufasa: The Lion King.
9) Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros
Mads Mikkelsen voices Kiros, the formidable leader of the Outsiders, a pride of white lions who seek revenge against Mufasa. Kiros, driven by personal loss and a desire for dominance, serves as a menacing antagonist in the film.
Mikkelsen, acclaimed for his roles in Hannibal and Casino Royale, brings intensity and menace to this new character in Mufasa: The Lion King.
10) Thandiwe Newton as Eshe
Thandiwe Newton voices Eshe, Taka’s mother and Mufasa’s adoptive mother. Eshe’s nurturing nature and wisdom play a significant role in shaping Mufasa’s early life. Newton, celebrated for her performances in Westworld and Crash, brings emotional depth and gravitas to Eshe’s character in Mufasa: The Lion King.
While the supporting cast includes,
- Lennie James as Obasi
- Anika Noni Rose as Afia
- Preston Nyman as Zazu
- Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala
- Joanna Jones as Akua
- Folake Olowofoyeku as Amara
- Thuso Mbedu as Junia
- Sheila Atim as Ajarry
- Abdul Salis as Chigaru
- Derrick L. McMillon as Mosi
- Maestro Harrell as Inaki
- A.J. Beckles as Azibo
Mufasa: The Lion King is currently available to watch only in theatres.