Mufasa: Difference between revisions - Wikipedia
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| name = Mufasa
| series = [[The Lion King (franchise)|The Lion King]]
| image =
| image_size =
| caption =
| first = ''[[The Lion King]]'' (1994)
| last =
| creator = {{Plainlist|
* [[Irene Mecchi]]
* [[Jonathan Roberts]]
* [[Linda Woolverton]]}}
| designer = Tony Fucile (supervising animator)
| voice = [[James Earl Jones]]
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| species = Lion
| title = King of the Pride Lands
| family = [[Simba]]{{Plainlist|
* [[Simba]] (son)
* [[Scar (The Lion King)|Scar]] (brother)}}
| significant_other = Sarabi
}}'''Mufasa''' is a fictional character in [[Walt Disney Animation Studios|Disney]]'s ''[[The Lion King (franchise)|The Lion King]]'' franchise. A wise, benevolent lion, the character first appears in the animated film ''[[The Lion King]]'' (1994) as the King of the Pride Lands and devoted father to [[Simba]], who he is groomingraising to inherit the throne. Mufasa is [[Fratricide|murdered]] by his younger brother, [[Scar (The Lion King)|Scar]], who kills Mufasa to [[Usurper|usurp]] rulership. Mufasa's death forces Simba to flee the Pride Lands in [[exile]], but his ghost appears to an adult Simba to convince his son to return home and confront his responsibilities as rightful heir, ultimately defeating Scar and restoring the Pride Lands. Mufasa was voiced by actor [[James Earl Jones]], who approached his performance as a "dopey" father figure, rather than a regal character.
Created by screenwriters [[Irene Mecchi]], [[Jonathan Roberts (writer)|Jonathan Roberts]], and [[Linda Woolverton]], Mufasa underwent several changes during [[The Lion King#Production|production]] of ''The Lion King'', namely making him related to Scar to enhance the film's plot, and having the character reappear as a ghost to provide Simba with a compelling reason to return to Pride Rock. The filmmakers strongly debated whether showing Mufasa's death on-screen was suitable for a children's film. While some writers suggested that he be killed [[Offscreen|off-screen]], director [[Rob Minkoff]] insisted on exploring Mufasa's death in detail, which was unprecedented for an animated film. The filmmakers then decided to alleviate the tone of the film by incorporating more comedic material after Mufasa dies. Mufasa was animated by supervising animator Tony Fucile, who drew inspiration from Jones's mannerisms and smile.
Jones received acclaim for his performance. Both critics and audiences were initially divided on whether Mufasa's death was too frightening for a children's film, many of whom compared it to the death of Bambi's mother in Disney's ''[[Bambi]]'' (1942). In retrospect, Mufasa's death is widely regarded as one of the most memorable on-screen deaths in film history, and has been noted for its particularly strong impact on [[millennials]]. Jones voiced the character in the 2019 remake of ''The Lion King'', the only main cast member from the original film to reprise their role. Actor [[Samuel E. Wright]] originated the role on Broadway in the stage adaptation of ''[[The Lion King (musical)|The Lion King]]'' (1997), for which he was nominated for the [[Tony Awards|Tony Award]] for [[Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical|Best Featured Actor in a Musical]]. A prequel, entitled ''[[Mufasa: The Lion King]]'', is scheduled to be released in 2024 and will explore Mufasa's background.
== Role ==
In ''[[The Lion King]]'' (1994), King Mufasa rules over the Pride Lands with his mate, [[Queen Sarabi]].<ref name=":34">{{Cite news |last=Peterson |first=Deborah |date=June 24, 1994 |title=Latest Jewel in Disney Crown Not the Shinest |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/st-louis-post-dispatch-the-lion-king/90968906/?locale=en-CA |url-access=registration |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125161835/https://www.newspapers.com/article/st-louis-post-dispatch-the-lion-king/90968906/?locale=en-CA |archive-date=January 25, 2024 |access-date=September 17, 2024 |work=[[St. Louis Post-Dispatch]] |via=[[Newspapers.com]] |quote=}}</ref> Their young son, Simba, is destined to eventually succeed his father as king. Mufasa teaches Simba the importance of maintaining the delicate balance of life inwithin the Pride Lands,<ref>{{Cite news |date=October 1994 |title=The 'mane' event is sure to be a roaring success |url=https://issuu.com/swindonlink6/docs/october1994 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230227025924/https://issuu.com/swindonlink6/docs/october1994 |archive-date=February 27, 2023 |access-date=September 19, 2024 |work=Swindon Link |via=[[Issuu]]}}</ref> and cautions Simbathe cub to prepare for when he will inevitably take his place.<ref name=":72">{{Cite news |date=August 13, 2023 |title=The Lion King |url=https://bfidatadigipres.github.io/making%20magic%3Cbr%3E100%20years%20of%20disney/2023/08/13/lion-king/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240912130106/https://bfidatadigipres.github.io/making%20magic%3Cbr%3E100%20years%20of%20disney/2023/08/13/lion-king/ |archive-date=September 12, 2024 |access-date=September 12, 2024 |work=[[BFI Southbank|BFI Southbank Programme Notes]]}}</ref> However, Mufasa's younger brother, Scar, covets the throne, and plots to eliminate both Mufasa and Simba to seize it for himself. One fateful day, Scar triggers a [[wildebeest]] stampede that traps Simba in a deep [[gorge]], knowing Mufasa would rush into danger to save his son.<ref name=":10">{{Cite news |last=Frank |first=Priscilla |date=July 19, 2019 |title=It Took a Disney Kingdom to Kill Cartoon Mufasa |url=https://www.vulture.com/2019/07/mufasa-death-scene-the-original-lion-king-animators-discuss.html |url-access=subscription |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230201133213/https://www.vulture.com/2019/07/mufasa-death-scene-the-original-lion-king-animators-discuss.html |archive-date=February 1, 2023 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |work=[[Vulture (website)|Vulture]] |quote=The effect was chilling, for children and New York Times reviewers alike.}}</ref> MufasaAfter heroicallyrescuing rescuesSimba, his son butMufasa is tragically caught in the stampede himself. Mufasaand struggles to climb up out of the gorge, where Scar waits above. As Mufasa pleads for help, Scar pierce's Mufasa's claws with his own,<ref name=":23">{{Cite news |title=Greatest Movie Death Scenes |url=https://www.filmsite.org/bestdeaths41.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210801165255/https://www.filmsite.org/bestdeaths41.html |archive-date=August 1, 2021 |access-date=September 16, 2024 |work=[[Filmsite]]}}</ref><ref name=":25">{{Cite news |date=July 29, 2019 |title=Inside Mufasa’s Lion King Death Scene, A Tearjerker For The Ages |url=https://www.gqmiddleeast.com/culture/inside-mufasas-lion-king-death-scene-a-tearjerker-for-the-ages |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240916161220/https://www.gqmiddleeast.com/culture/inside-mufasas-lion-king-death-scene-a-tearjerker-for-the-ages |archive-date=September 16, 2024 |access-date=September 16, 2024 |work=[[GQ Middle East]] |quote=much like the Bambi mother murder that traumatized another generation of children decades before}}</ref> and pushes him to his death below.<ref name=":10" /><ref name=":33">{{Cite news |last=Witiw |first=John |date=November 3, 2023 |title=10 Coming-of-Age Movies from the 1990s That Made Us Bawl Our Eyes Out |url=https://movieweb.com/coming-of-age-movies-1990s-made-us-cry/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240919003804/https://movieweb.com/coming-of-age-movies-1990s-made-us-cry/ |archive-date=September 19, 2024 |access-date=September 17, 2024 |work=[[MovieWeb]] |quote=Mufasa's death is one of the most infamous death sequences in animation history.}}</ref> Scar manipulates a young Simba into believing he caused Mufasa's demise, forcing him to flee in guilt and shame.<ref name=":72" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Lion King, The (film) |url=https://d23.com/a-to-z/lion-king-the-film/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240222042846/https://d23.com/a-to-z/lion-king-the-film/ |archive-date=February 22, 2024 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |website=[[D23 (Disney)|D23]]}}</ref> Lost and alone, Simba finds refuge in the jungle, where he is raised by [[Timon and Pumbaa]], a meerkat and a warthog.<ref name=":72" /> Despite his new carefree life, the guilt of his perceived actions lingers.<ref name=":72" /> Years later, Simba is reunited with Rafiki, a wise baboon who reveals that Mufasa's spirit lives on inside of him.<ref name=":72" /> Mufasa's spirit appears in the clouds as a ghostly [[Apparition (supernatural)|apparition]] to impart wisdom and remind Simba about the importance of facing his responsibilities,<ref>{{Cite news |last=Gonzalez |first=Ed |date=September 28, 2003 |title=Review: The Lion King |url=https://www.slantmagazine.com/film/the-lion-king/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240821085646/https://www.slantmagazine.com/film/the-lion-king/ |archive-date=August 21, 2024 |access-date=September 23, 2024 |work=[[Slant Magazine]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Russel |first=Candice |date=June 24, 1994 |title=`Lion' Is King Of Jungle For All Ages |url=http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/1994-06-24/entertainment/9406220442_1_simba-mufasa-lion |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619063058/http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/1994-06-24/entertainment/9406220442_1_simba-mufasa-lion |archive-date=June 19, 2018 |access-date=September 23, 2024 |work=[[Sun Sentinel]]}}</ref> prompting Simba to return to the Pride Lands, where he confronts and defeats Scar, and ultimately reclaims his rightful place as king.<ref name=":72" />
== Development ==
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=== Legacy and commendations ===
In 2014, Camille Dautrich of the ''[[Springfield News-Leader]]'' described Mufasa as one "of the world's most beloved animated characters".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Dautrich |first=Camille |date=March 26, 2014 |title=Ozarks sculptor shapes Hollywood animated characters |url=https://www.news-leader.com/story/entertainment/weekend/2014/03/27/ozarks-sculptor-shapes-hollywood-animated-characters/6882409/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240223164224/https://www.news-leader.com/story/entertainment/weekend/2014/03/27/ozarks-sculptor-shapes-hollywood-animated-characters/6882409/ |archive-date=February 23, 2024 |access-date=September 12, 2024 |work=[[Springfield News-Leader]]}}</ref> Reporting for ''[[Good Morning America]]'', Nicole Pelletiere reported thatsaid his wisdom and legacy endeared him to Disney fans.<ref name=":44">{{Cite news |last=Pelletiere |first=Nicole |date=June 12, 2018 |title=10 fictional dads who will forever have our hearts |url=https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/family/story/10-fictional-dads-forever-hearts-55804855 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240920125057/https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/family/story/10-fictional-dads-forever-hearts-55804855 |archive-date=September 20, 2024 |access-date=September 20, 2024 |work=[[Good Morning America]]}}</ref> Mufasa has been described by several publications as one of the greatest fathers to have appeared on film,<ref>{{Cite news |title=A Tribute to the Greatest Movie Dads of All Time |url=https://qat.voxcinemas.com/ar/vox-voice/fathers-day |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240917161306/https://qat.voxcinemas.com/ar/vox-voice/fathers-day |archive-date=September 17, 2024 |access-date=September 17, 2024 |work=[[VOX Cinemas]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Bui |first=Hoai-Tran |date=June 21, 2015 |title=The 5 best and worst TV and movie dads |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/entertainthis/2015/06/21/the-5-best-and-worst-tv-and-movie-dads-fathers-day/77521594/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308064624/https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/entertainthis/2015/06/21/the-5-best-and-worst-tv-and-movie-dads-fathers-day/77521594/ |archive-date=March 8, 2021 |access-date=September 17, 2024 |work=[[USA Today]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=7 Greatest Dads in Cinema |url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/ampstories/web-stories/7-greatest-dads-in-cinema |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240416233134/https://www.filmcompanion.in/ampstories/web-stories/7-greatest-dads-in-cinema |archive-date=April 16, 2024 |access-date=September 19, 2024 |work=[[Film Companion]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Cannon |first=Dylan |date=June 11, 2014 |title=4 uplifting movie fathers |url=https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/news/2014/06/12/4-uplifting-movie-fathers/47932015/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240919155742/https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/news/2014/06/12/4-uplifting-movie-fathers/47932015/ |archive-date=September 19, 2024 |access-date=September 19, 2024 |work=[[The Herald-Times]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Cannon |first=Dylan |date=June 11, 2014 |title=Great movie dads for Father's Day |url=https://www.ksl.com/article/30254800/great-movie-dads-for-fathers-day |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240919161113/https://www.ksl.com/article/30254800/great-movie-dads-for-fathers-day |archive-date=September 19, 2024 |access-date=September 19, 2024 |work=[[KSL News]]}}</ref><ref name=":44" /> with Zach Seemayer of ''[[Entertainment Tonight]]'' ranking him among "the 13 greatest fictional fathers in movie history",<ref>{{Cite news |last=Seemayer |first=Zach |date=June 21, 2015 |title=13 Fantastic Fictional Fathers From Film |url=https://www.etonline.com/movies/166559_13_fantastic_fictional_fathers_from_film |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240920125046/https://www.etonline.com/movies/166559_13_fantastic_fictional_fathers_from_film |archive-date=September 20, 2024 |access-date=September 20, 2024 |work=[[Entertainment Tonight]]}}</ref> and ''[[Business Insider]]'' calling him one of the 19 "the best fictional dads of all time".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Shaw |first=Gabbi |date=June 18, 2023 |title=19 of the best fictional dads of all time — and 10 of the worst |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/best-and-worst-fictional-dads-movies-tv-2021-6 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240920172414/https://www.businessinsider.com/best-and-worst-fictional-dads-movies-tv-2021-6 |archive-date=September 20, 2024 |access-date=September 20, 2024 |work=[[Business Insider]]}}</ref> Jeff Peterson of the ''[[Deseret News]]'' said the character "demonstrates the qualities of a good father, which, incidentally, are the same qualities needed for Simba to become a good ruler later on".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Peterson |first=Jeff |date=June 12, 2013 |title=10 of the best fathers from movie history |url=https://www.deseret.com/entertainment/2013/6/13/20799463/best-movie-fictional-fathers/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240919162042/https://www.deseret.com/entertainment/2013/6/13/20799463/best-movie-fictional-fathers/ |archive-date=September 19, 2024 |access-date=September 19, 2024 |work=[[Deseret News]]}}</ref> In 2022, [[Indy100]] recognized Mufasa as one of the 100 greatest on-screen fathers,<ref>{{Cite news |last=Robinson |first=Breanna |last2=Baio |first2=Ariana |last3=Evans |first3=Greg |date=June 19, 2022 |title=The top 100 TV and movie Dads ever |url=https://www.indy100.com/showbiz/best-dads-fathers-tv-movies |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528042043/https://www.indy100.com/showbiz/best-dads-fathers-tv-movies |archive-date=May 28, 2023 |access-date=September 17, 2024 |work=[[Indy100]]}}</ref> and ''[[Euronews]]'' included him among the "The 12 best on-screen dads of all time".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Carbonaro |first=Giulia |date=June 19, 2022 |title=Euroviews. Fathers Day: The 12 best on-screen dads of all time |url=https://www.euronews.com/culture/2022/06/19/fathers-day-the-12-best-on-screen-dads-of-all-time |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240919200053/https://www.euronews.com/culture/2022/06/19/fathers-day-the-12-best-on-screen-dads-of-all-time |archive-date=September 19, 2024 |access-date=September 19, 2024 |work=[[Euronews]]}}</ref> Ranking him the best movie dad, Ryan Christian of [[MovieWeb]] described Mufasa as "one of the all-time greats" and "the standard against which all movie dads are judged".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Christian |first=Ryan |date=June 18, 2023 |title=Yet Another List of Great Dads in Movies |url=https://movieweb.com/great-dads-in-movies/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240917175559/https://movieweb.com/great-dads-in-movies/ |archive-date=September 17, 2024 |access-date=September 17, 2024 |work=[[MovieWeb]]}}</ref> ''[[GamesRadar+]]'' named the character the fifth greatest movie father figure.<ref>{{Cite news |last=O'Callaghan |first=Lauren |date=June 6, 2017 |title=The 25 best movie dads who became great father figures |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/50-greatest-movie-dads/3/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240919165737/https://www.gamesradar.com/50-greatest-movie-dads/3/ |archive-date=September 19, 2024 |access-date=September 19, 2024 |work=[[GamesRadar+]]}}</ref> ''[[The Daily Beast]]'' ranked him the sixth "coolest movie dad",<ref>{{Cite news |last=Stern |first=Marlow |date=April 21, 2017 |title=The 13 Coolest Movie Dads: 'Taken,' 'Star Wars,' 'Die Hard' and More |url=https://www.thedailybeast.com/the-13-coolest-movie-dads-taken-star-wars-die-hard-and-more |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415010642/https://www.thedailybeast.com/the-13-coolest-movie-dads-taken-star-wars-die-hard-and-more |archive-date=April 15, 2024 |access-date=September 17, 2024 |work=[[The Daily Beast]]}}</ref> and Brian Tallerico of ''[[Vulture (website)|Vulture]]'' declared Mufasa Disney's most iconic father.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Tallerico |first=Brian |date=June 14, 2024 |title=The 15 Best Movies to Stream This Father’s Day |url=https://www.vulture.com/article/best-fathers-day-movies-streaming.html |url-access=subscription |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240715165317/https://www.vulture.com/article/best-fathers-day-movies-streaming.html |archive-date=July 15, 2024 |access-date=September 14, 2024 |work=[[Vulture (website)|Vulture]]}}</ref> ''[[America (magazine)|America]]'' writer John Dougherty described Mufasa as "graceful and dignified, but also warm and playful—the ideal father".<ref name=":20">{{Cite news |last=Dougherty |first=John |date=September 11, 2024 |title=Remembering James Earl Jones: the voice of God, a father and a compelling villain |url=https://www.americamagazine.org/arts-culture/2024/09/11/james-earl-jones-obituary-248773 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240914200450/https://www.americamagazine.org/arts-culture/2024/09/11/james-earl-jones-obituary-248773 |archive-date=September 14, 2024 |access-date=September 14, 2024 |work=[[America (magazine)|America]]}}</ref> Sandra Gonzalez of ''Entertainment Weekly'' selected ''The Lion King'' as the "one movie I’m going to watch on [[Father's Day|Father’s Day]]" due to Mufasa's love for Simba.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Gonzalez |first=Sandra |date=June 17, 2012 |title=Father's Day: Which movie best honors YOUR dad? |url=https://ew.com/article/2012/06/17/fathers-day-movies/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240917195601/https://ew.com/article/2012/06/17/fathers-day-movies/ |archive-date=September 17, 2024 |access-date=September 17, 2024 |work=[[Entertainment Weekly]]}}</ref>
''The Lion King''Mufasa was Jones's most famous animated performance,<ref name=":32" /> and one of the most popular roles of his career.<ref name=":5" /> The character is credited with introducing Jones to a younger generation of filmgoers.<ref name=":39" /><ref name=":19">{{Cite news |last=Goffe |first=Nadira |date=September 10, 2024 |title=James Earl Jones, Our On-Screen Father |url=https://slate.com/culture/2024/09/james-earl-jones-death-filmography-darth-vader-voice-mufasa-father.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240913213951/https://slate.com/culture/2024/09/james-earl-jones-death-filmography-darth-vader-voice-mufasa-father.html |archive-date=September 13, 2024 |access-date=September 14, 2024 |work=[[Slate (magazine)|Slate]] |quote=Many of us will never forget watching Mufasa fall into that gorge amid a wildebeest stampede}}</ref> According to Emma Saunders of [[BBC Online]], he was "loved by millions for voicing Mufasa".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Saunders |first=Emma |date=September 9, 2024 |title=Tributes paid to acting 'giant' James Earl Jones |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c17g4g5ve5xo |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240923153049/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c17g4g5ve5xo |archive-date=September 23, 2024 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |work=[[BBC Online]]}}</ref> Carlos Morales of [[IGN]] called Mufasa "his second most famous role", after [[Darth Vader]] from the ''[[Star Wars]]'' franchise.<ref name=":42">{{Cite news |last=Morales |first=Carlos |date=September 10, 2024 |title=James Earl Jones' Voice Is the Only Reason the Most Iconic Villain in Movie History Exists |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/james-earl-jones-voice-acting-darth-vader-mufasa |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240922030303/https://www.ign.com/articles/james-earl-jones-voice-acting-darth-vader-mufasa |archive-date=September 22, 2024 |access-date=September 11, 2024 |work=[[IGN]]}}</ref> Comparing the two roles, Kofi Outlaw of [[ComicBook.com]] said that, with Mufasa, Jones successfully transitioned "from being a nightmare bad dad in ''Star Wars'', to being the dad every young cub (human or lion) wishes they had, in ''The Lion King'' (1994)".<ref name=":6" /> Peter Debruge of ''[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]'' observed that which character Jones's voice reminds fans of varies dependingdepends on whether the listenerviewer was born before or after 1990.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Debruge |first=Peter |date=September 10, 2024 |title=How ‘Star Wars’ and ‘The Lion King’ Made James Earl Jones the Voice of Generations |url=https://variety.com/2024/film/columns/james-earl-jones-career-appreciation-darth-vader-mufasa-star-wars-lion-king-1236139223/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240920184646/https://variety.com/2024/film/columns/james-earl-jones-career-appreciation-darth-vader-mufasa-star-wars-lion-king-1236139223/ |archive-date=September 20, 2024 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]}}</ref> According to Morales, Jones's voiceover work in voice acting also "brought credibility to a type of acting that still struggles to be respected to this day".<ref name=":42" /> In 2019, [[The Walt Disney Company]] inducted Jones as a [[Disney Legends|Disney Legend]] in the "voice" category,<ref>{{Cite web |title=James Earl Jones |url=https://d23.com/walt-disney-legend/james-earl-jones/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240223205132/https://d23.com/walt-disney-legend/james-earl-jones/ |archive-date=February 23, 2024 |access-date=September 12, 2024 |website=[[D23 (Disney)|D23]]}}</ref> for his "remarkable contributions to the Disney legacy".<ref>{{Cite news |date=May 16, 2019 |title=Meet the 2019 Disney Legends to Be Honored at D23 Expo |url=https://d23.com/2019-disney-legends/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319021110/https://d23.com/2019-disney-legends/ |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |access-date=September 12, 2024 |work=[[D23 (Disney)|D23]]}}</ref> Many celebrities shared tributes to Jones following the actor's death on September 9, 2024, several of whichwhom referenced ''The Lion King''.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mier |first=Tomás |date=September 9, 2024 |title=Mark Hamill, Octavia Spencer, More Remember ‘Legendary’ James Earl Jones |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/tv-movies/tv-movie-news/james-earl-jones-celebrity-tributes-mark-hamill-octavia-spencer-1235098205/ |url-access=subscription |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240909224110/https://www.rollingstone.com/tv-movies/tv-movie-news/james-earl-jones-celebrity-tributes-mark-hamill-octavia-spencer-1235098205/ |archive-date=September 9, 2024 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |work=[[Rolling Stone]]}}</ref> [[Crystal Kung Minkoff]], a television personality and Minkoff's wife, posted a photo of Jones holding a Mufasa statuemaquette with the caption "Rest in Power, Mr Jones. You made a young animator’s dream come true when you accepted the role of Mufasa".<ref>{{Cite news |date=September 10, 2024 |title=Legendary actor James Earl Jones, memorable voice behind Darth Vader and Mufasa, passes away |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/english/news/2024/Sep/10/legendary-actor-james-earl-jones-memorable-voice-of-darth-vader-and-mufasa-passes-away |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240913140558/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/english/news/2024/Sep/10/legendary-actor-james-earl-jones-memorable-voice-of-darth-vader-and-mufasa-passes-away |archive-date=September 13, 2024 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |work=[[Cinema Express]]}}</ref>
=== Death ===
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=== In other media ===
To promote the release of ''The Lion King'', Mufasa began appearing in a plethora of merchandise licensed by [[Disney Consumer Products]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Burbury |first=Rochelle |date=August 25, 1994 |title=The Sydney Morning Herald from Sydney, New South Wales, Australia |url=https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/122385076/ |access-date=September 20, 2024 |work=[[The Sydney Morning Herald]] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}}</ref> Mufasa's likeness has been used in several ''Lion King'' [[tie-in]] media, including the PC game ''[[Disney's Animated Storybook: The Lion King]]'' (1994) and video game ''[[The Lion King: Simba's Mighty Adventure]]'' (2000).<ref>{{Cite news |last=Soltesz |first=Diana |date=December 6, 1994 |title=Disney Software debuts first CD-ROM titles with "The Lion King" Animated Story Book and 'Aladdin' Activity Center |url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/450076188?sourcetype=Wire%20Feeds |access-date=October 2, 2024 |work=[[PR Newswire]] |via=[[ProQuest]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Mufasa Voice – The Lion King: Simba's Mighty Adventure (Video Game) |url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/The-Lion-King-Simbas-Mighty-Adventure/Mufasa/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220330091336/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/The-Lion-King-Simbas-Mighty-Adventure/Mufasa/ |archive-date=March 30, 2022 |access-date=September 27, 2024 |website=Behind the Voice Actors}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Mufasa Voice – The Lion King Animated Storybook (Video Game) |url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/The-Lion-King-Animated-StoryBook/Mufasa/ |access-date=September 27, 2024 |website=Behind the Voice Actors}}</ref> Outside of ''The Lion King'' franchise, the character has appeared in the television series ''[[Disney's House of Mouse]]'' (2001) and the video game ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]'' (2006).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mufasa Voices (Lion King) |url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/characters/The-Lion-King/Mufasa/ |access-date=September 27, 2024 |website=Behind the Voice Actors}}</ref>
InTo promote the release of ''[[The Simpsons]]'' episodeLion King'"[['Round Springfield|Roundin Springfield]]" (1995)1994, Mufasa appearsbegan appearing in thea cloudsplethora toof [[Lisamerchandise Simpson]],licensed alongsideby Darth[[Disney VaderConsumer and JonesProducts]].<ref name=":49">{{Cite news |last=SimsBurbury |first=DavidRochelle |date=NovemberAugust 325, 20131994 |title=The SimpsonsSydney (Classic):Morning "'RoundHerald Springfield"from Sydney, New South Wales, Australia |url=https://www.avclubnewspapers.com/the-simpsons-classic-round-springfield-1798178541newspage/122385076/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/2023032315404120241002184402/https://www.avclubnewspapers.com/the-simpsons-classic-round-springfield-1798178541newspage/122385076/ |archive-date=MarchOctober 232, 20232024 |access-date=September 2420, 2024 |work=[[The A.V.Sydney ClubMorning Herald]] |via=[[Newspapers.com]]}}</ref> Mufasa's [[Personality rights|likeness]] has been used in several ''Lion King'' [[tie-in]] products and media, including the PC game ''[[Disney's Animated Storybook: The Lion King]]'' (1994) and console game ''[[The Lion King: Simba's Mighty Adventure]]'' (2000).<ref>{{Cite news |last=SchwarzSoltesz |first=HunterDiana |date=AprilDecember 176, 20151994 |title=TedDisney CruzSoftware lovesdebuts ‘Thefirst Simpsons,’CD-ROM buttitles hewith botched"The hisLion favoriteKing" quoteAnimated Story Book and 'Aladdin' Activity Center |url=https://www.washingtonpostproquest.com/newsdocview/the450076188?sourcetype=Wire%20Feeds |access-fixdate=October 2, 2024 |work=[[PR Newswire]] |via=[[ProQuest]]}}</wpref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Mufasa Voice – The Lion King: Simba's Mighty Adventure (Video Game) |url=https:/2015/04www.behindthevoiceactors.com/17video-games/tedThe-cruzLion-lovesKing-theSimbas-simpsonsMighty-but-he-botched-his-favorite-quoteAdventure/Mufasa/ |url-access=subscription |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/2023033000034720220330091336/https://www.washingtonpostbehindthevoiceactors.com/newsvideo-games/theThe-Lion-King-Simbas-Mighty-fixAdventure/wpMufasa/2015 |archive-date=March 30, 2022 |access-date=September 27, 2024 |website=Behind the Voice Actors}}</04ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Mufasa Voice – The Lion King Animated Storybook (Video Game) |url=https:/17/tedwww.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-cruzgames/The-lovesLion-theKing-simpsonsAnimated-butStoryBook/Mufasa/ |archive-heurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240715032917/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-botchedgames/The-hisLion-favoriteKing-quoteAnimated-StoryBook/Mufasa/ |archive-date=MarchJuly 3015, 20232024 |access-date=September 2427, 2024 |workwebsite=[[TheBehind Washingtonthe Post]]Voice Actors}}</ref> AllIn three2019, charactersa are[[Funko voicedPop!]] byfigurine ''Simpsons''was castreleased memberto commemorate the remake, which ''[[HarryScreen ShearerRant]],'' ranked among "The 10 Best Disney Funko Pops".<ref>{{Cite news |last=KingSherlock |first=JackBen |date=SeptemberApril 112, 20242019 |title=WithThe James10 EarlBest Jones'sDisney PassingFunko Pops, a Legendary Simpsons Voice Falls SilentRanked |url=https://www.gqscreenrant.com/story/jamesdisney-earlfunko-jonespops-a-legendary-simpsons-voice-falls-silentranked/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/2024092407531920190408191604/https://www.gqscreenrant.com/story/jamesdisney-earlfunko-jonespops-a-legendary-simpsons-voice-falls-silentranked/ |archive-date=SeptemberApril 248, 20242019 |access-date=SeptemberOctober 243, 2024 |work=[[GQScreen Rant]]}}</ref> despiteIn Jones himself1997, havingactor [[GuestSamuel appearance|guestE. starredWright]] originated the role of Mufasa on three[[Broadway earliertheatre|Broadway]] ''Simpsons''in episodesthe [[The Lion King (musical)|stage adaptation of the film]].<ref>{{Cite namenews |last=":49"Yandoli />|first=Krystie InLee "Round|date=May Springfield"25, Mufasa2021 mistakenly|title=Samuel saysE. theWright, nameThe “Kimba”Voice beforeBehind correctingThe himselfBeloved to“Little “Simba”,Mermaid” whichCharacter isSebastian, aHas referenceDied to|url=https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/krystieyandoli/samuel-wright-actor-obituary [[Kimba|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226223056/https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/krystieyandoli/samuel-wright-actor-obituary the|archive-date=February White26, Lion#Claims2024 of|access-date=October resemblance3, to The2024 Lion King|allegationswork=[[BuzzFeed News]]}}</ref> thatPrior to ''The Lion King'', washe inspiredhad byvoiced the[[Sebastian anime(The Little Mermaid)|Sebastian i]]<nowiki/>n Disney's ''[[KimbaThe theLittle White LionMermaid (TV1989 seriesfilm)|KimbaThe theLittle White LionMermaid]]'' (1989).<ref>{{Cite news |last=WoodrowLanger |first=RyanEmily |date=JulyJune 289, 20232021 |title=8Samuel TimesE TheWright: SimpsonsUnforgettable voice behind Sebastian in ‘The ReferencedLittle AnimeMermaid’ |url=https://www.mensjournalindependent.comco.uk/streamingnews/theobituaries/samuel-simpsons-anime-references#gid=ci02dd788bc0062554&pid=kimbawright-the-whitelittle-lionmermaid--round-springfieldb1858392.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/2024092512564220220707204321/https://www.mensjournalindependent.comco.uk/streamingnews/obituaries/thesamuel-simpsons-anime-references#gid=ci02dd788bc0062554&pid=kimbawright-the-whitelittle-lionmermaid--round-springfieldb1858392.html |archive-date=SeptemberJuly 257, 20242022 |access-date=SeptemberOctober 242, 2024 |work=[[Men'sThe JournalIndependent]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=ChernoffMondello |first=ScottBob |author-link=Bob Mondello |date=JulyMay 2426, 20072021 |title=ISamuel BentE. MyWright, Wookiee!Voice CelebratingOf theSebastian StarThe Wars/SimpsonsCrab ConnectionIn 'The Little Mermaid,' Has Died |url=httphttps://starwarswww.comnpr.org/community2021/news05/media26/f200707241000616854/index.html?page=3samuel-e-wright-voice-of-sebastian-the-crab-in-the-little-mermaid-has-died |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/2011072422302220240726045828/httphttps://starwarswww.comnpr.org/community2021/news05/media26/f200707241000616854/index.html?page=3samuel-e-wright-voice-of-sebastian-the-crab-in-the-little-mermaid-has-died |archive-date=July 2426, 20112024 |access-date=SeptemberOctober 243, 2024 |work=[[StarWars.comNPR]]}}</ref> Mufasa's role in the show was expanded with the addition of the songs "The Morning Report" and "[[They Live in You]]".<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Lion King Characters |url=https://www.thelionking.co.uk/the-lion-king-characters |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240828191154/https://www.thelionking.co.uk/the-lion-king-characters |archive-date=August 28, 2024 |access-date=October 4, 2024 |website=The Lion King UK}}</ref> He was initially reluctant to audition, fearing it would be too similar to playing the [[Cowardly Lion]] from ''[[The Wizard of Oz]]'' (1939) or the [[Beast (Disney character)|Beast]] from ''[[Beauty and the Beast (1991 film)|Beauty and the Beast]]'' (1994), but relented once he was shown director [[Julie Taymor]]'s plans for the character's design and costume.<ref name=":55">{{Cite news |last=WitiwPogrebin |first=JohnRobin |author-link=Robin Pogrebin |date=NovemberAugust 2017, 20222001 |title=10 Best AnimeNo ReferencesLetup In Thea SimpsonsLion Kingdom |url=https://www.cbrnytimes.com/simpsons2001/08/17/movies/no-animeletup-references/in-a-lion-kingdom.html |url-access=subscription |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/2022120711570620210603081712/https://www.cbrnytimes.com/simpsons2001/08/17/movies/no-animeletup-references/in-a-lion-kingdom.html |archive-date=DecemberJune 73, 20222021 |access-date=SeptemberOctober 242, 2024 |work=[[ComicThe BookNew ResourcesYork Times]]}}</ref> He based his performance on [[ChanceMaasai the Rapperpeople|Masai]] haswarriors referencedwho Mufasahunted inlions, severaland oflearned histo songs,growl by researching lions at the [[Bronx Zoo]].<ref name=":5355" /> includingHe "Ialso Amreceived Very[[Physical Verytherapy|physiotherapy]] Lonely"regularly (2014),due to the physical demands of the role.<ref name=":5455" /> Wright's performance received positive reviews from ''The New York Times'' and ''Variety'' theater critics.<ref>{{Cite news |last=BrownBrantley |first=PreezyBen |author-link=Ben Brantley |date=JulyNovember 1314, 20191997 |title=FromTheater TheReview; BigCub ScreenComes Toof Hip-HopAge: 25A RapTwice-Told LyricsCosmic Referencing ‘The Lion King’Tale |url=https://www.vibenytimes.com/features1997/editorial11/lion14/movies/theater-kingreview-referencescub-rapcomes-lyricsof-listage-657531/a-twice-told-cosmic-tale.html |url-access=subscription |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/2024050802073220240613205657/https://www.vibenytimes.com/features1997/editorial11/lion14/movies/theater-kingreview-referencescub-rapcomes-lyricsof-listage-657531/a-twice-told-cosmic-tale.html |archive-date=MayJune 813, 2024 |access-date=October 23, 2024 |work=[[VibeThe (magazine)|VibeNew York Times]]}}</ref> "[[Blessings (Chance the Rapper song)|Blessings]]" (2016), and "How Great" (2016).<ref>{{Cite news |last=FlorioCanby |first=AngelicaVincent |author-link=Vincent Canby |date=JulyNovember 1823, 20191997 |title=ChanceSUNDAY VIEW; 'The RapperLion PlaysKing' AEarns FewIts ‘LionRoars King’Of Characters, So Keep Your Ears PeeledApproval |url=https://www.bustlenytimes.com/p1997/who11/23/theater/sunday-does-chance-the-rapper-play-inview-the-lion-king-keepearns-yourits-earsroars-peeledof-forapproval.html |url-simbas-1-fan-18209485access=subscription |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/2022120914562120230522145231/https://www.bustlenytimes.com/p1997/who-does11/23/theater/sunday-chanceview-the-rapperlion-playking-inearns-its-roars-of-approval.html |archive-date=May 22, 2023 |access-date=October 3, 2024 |work=[[The New York Times]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Evans |first=Greg |date=November 13, 1997 |title=The Lion King (New Amsterdam Theater) |url=https://variety.com/1997/legit/reviews/the-lion-king-keepnew-youramsterdam-earstheater-peeled1117339958/ |archive-forurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20221210002831/https://variety.com/1997/legit/reviews/the-simbaslion-1king-fannew-18209485amsterdam-theater-1117339958/ |archive-date=December 910, 2022 |access-date=October 13, 2024 |work=[[BustleVariety (magazine)|BustleVariety]]}}</ref><ref name=":54"In />[[52nd TheTony rapper saidAwards|1998]], he haswas alwaysnominated likenedfor the character[[Tony toAwards|Tony hisAward]] ownfor father,[[Tony andAward claimsfor MufasaBest "wasFeatured aActor lotin ofa youngMusical|Best blackFeatured boys’Actor depictionin ofa growing into manhood"Musical]].<ref name=":53" />{{Cite Henews found|last=Morales himself|first=Christina self-identifying|date=May with26, Mufasa2021 once|title=Samuel heE. becameWright, athe fatherVoice himself.<refof name=":53"Sebastian />in The‘The characterLittle hasMermaid,’ alsoDies beenat [[Name72 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/26/arts/samuel-droppinge-wright-dead-sebastian-little-mermaid-mufasa-lion-king.html |nameurl-dropped]] inaccess=subscription songs by [[Hip hop music|hiparchive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231123235250/https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/26/arts/samuel-e-wright-dead-sebastian-little-mermaid-mufasa-lion-king.html hop]] artists [[Wu|archive-Tangdate=November Clan]]23, [[Nicki2023 Minaj]],|access-date=October [[Smino]]2, and2024 |work=[[WakaThe FlockaNew FlameYork Times]].}}</ref> name=":54" />
Outside of ''The Lion King'' franchise, the character has appeared in the television series ''[[Disney's House of Mouse]]'' (2001) and the video game ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]'' (2006).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mufasa Voices (Lion King) |url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/characters/The-Lion-King/Mufasa/ |access-date=September 27, 2024 |website=Behind the Voice Actors}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Mufasa |url=https://www.khinsider.com/characters/mufasa |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230504011837/https://www.khinsider.com/characters/mufasa |archive-date=May 4, 2023 |access-date=October 3, 2024 |website=Kingdom Hearts Insider}}</ref> In ''[[The Simpsons]]'' episode '"[['Round Springfield|Round Springfield]]" (1995), Mufasa appears in the clouds to [[Lisa Simpson]], alongside Darth Vader and Jones.<ref name=":49">{{Cite news |last=Sims |first=David |date=November 3, 2013 |title=The Simpsons (Classic): "'Round Springfield" |url=https://www.avclub.com/the-simpsons-classic-round-springfield-1798178541 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230323154041/https://www.avclub.com/the-simpsons-classic-round-springfield-1798178541 |archive-date=March 23, 2023 |access-date=September 24, 2024 |work=[[The A.V. Club]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Schwarz |first=Hunter |date=April 17, 2015 |title=Ted Cruz loves ‘The Simpsons,’ but he botched his favorite quote |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-fix/wp/2015/04/17/ted-cruz-loves-the-simpsons-but-he-botched-his-favorite-quote/ |url-access=subscription |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230330000347/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-fix/wp/2015/04/17/ted-cruz-loves-the-simpsons-but-he-botched-his-favorite-quote/ |archive-date=March 30, 2023 |access-date=September 24, 2024 |work=[[The Washington Post]]}}</ref> All three characters are voiced by ''Simpsons'' cast member [[Harry Shearer]],<ref>{{Cite news |last=King |first=Jack |date=September 11, 2024 |title=With James Earl Jones's Passing, a Legendary Simpsons Voice Falls Silent |url=https://www.gq.com/story/james-earl-jones-a-legendary-simpsons-voice-falls-silent |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240924075319/https://www.gq.com/story/james-earl-jones-a-legendary-simpsons-voice-falls-silent |archive-date=September 24, 2024 |access-date=September 24, 2024 |work=[[GQ]]}}</ref> despite Jones himself having [[Guest appearance|guest starred]] on three earlier ''Simpsons'' episodes.<ref name=":49" /> In "Round Springfield", Mufasa mistakenly says the name “Kimba” before correcting himself to “Simba”, which parodies [[Kimba the White Lion#Claims of resemblance to The Lion King|allegations]] that ''The Lion King'' was inspired by the anime ''[[Kimba the White Lion (TV series)|Kimba the White Lion]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Woodrow |first=Ryan |date=July 28, 2023 |title=8 Times The Simpsons Referenced Anime |url=https://www.mensjournal.com/streaming/the-simpsons-anime-references#gid=ci02dd788bc0062554&pid=kimba-the-white-lion--round-springfield |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240925125642/https://www.mensjournal.com/streaming/the-simpsons-anime-references#gid=ci02dd788bc0062554&pid=kimba-the-white-lion--round-springfield |archive-date=September 25, 2024 |access-date=September 24, 2024 |work=[[Men's Journal]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Chernoff |first=Scott |date=July 24, 2007 |title=I Bent My Wookiee! Celebrating the Star Wars/Simpsons Connection |url=http://starwars.com/community/news/media/f20070724/index.html?page=3 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110724223022/http://starwars.com/community/news/media/f20070724/index.html?page=3 |archive-date=July 24, 2011 |access-date=September 24, 2024 |work=[[StarWars.com]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Witiw |first=John |date=November 20, 2022 |title=10 Best Anime References In The Simpsons |url=https://www.cbr.com/simpsons-anime-references/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221207115706/https://www.cbr.com/simpsons-anime-references/ |archive-date=December 7, 2022 |access-date=September 24, 2024 |work=[[Comic Book Resources]]}}</ref> [[Chance the Rapper]] has referenced Mufasa in several of his songs,<ref name=":53" /> including "I Am Very Very Lonely" (2014),<ref name=":54">{{Cite news |last=Brown |first=Preezy |date=July 13, 2019 |title=From The Big Screen To Hip-Hop: 25 Rap Lyrics Referencing ‘The Lion King’ |url=https://www.vibe.com/features/editorial/lion-king-references-rap-lyrics-list-657531/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240508020732/https://www.vibe.com/features/editorial/lion-king-references-rap-lyrics-list-657531/ |archive-date=May 8, 2024 |access-date=October 2, 2024 |work=[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]}}</ref> "[[Blessings (Chance the Rapper song)|Blessings]]" (2016), and "How Great" (2016).<ref>{{Cite news |last=Florio |first=Angelica |date=July 18, 2019 |title=Chance The Rapper Plays A Few ‘Lion King’ Characters, So Keep Your Ears Peeled |url=https://www.bustle.com/p/who-does-chance-the-rapper-play-in-the-lion-king-keep-your-ears-peeled-for-simbas-1-fan-18209485 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221209145621/https://www.bustle.com/p/who-does-chance-the-rapper-play-in-the-lion-king-keep-your-ears-peeled-for-simbas-1-fan-18209485 |archive-date=December 9, 2022 |access-date=October 1, 2024 |work=[[Bustle (magazine)|Bustle]]}}</ref><ref name=":54" /> The rapper said he has always likened the character to his own father, and claims Mufasa "was a lot of young black boys’ depiction of growing into manhood".<ref name=":53" /> He found himself identifying with Mufasa once he became a father himself.<ref name=":53" /> The character has also been [[Name-dropping|name-dropped]] in songs by [[Hip hop music|hip hop]] artists [[Wu-Tang Clan]], [[Nicki Minaj]], [[Smino]], and [[Waka Flocka Flame]].<ref name=":54" />
A prequel to the 2019 remake, ''[[Mufasa: The Lion King]]'', is scheduled to be released in 2024, and will center on Mufasa's childhood, friendships, relationships, and major events that ultimately lead to him becoming king of the Pride Lands.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mundhada |first=Tejas |date=September 11, 2024 |title='One Of My Greatest...': This Will Change The Way You See Aaron Pierre Taking Over the Mufasa Role from Late James Earl Jones |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/hollywood/one-of-my-greatest-this-will-change-the-way-you-see-aaron-pierre-taking-over-the-mufasa-role-from-late-james-earl-jones-1347293 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |work=[[Pinkvilla]]}}</ref>▼
▲A prequel to the 2019 remake, ''[[Mufasa: The Lion King]]'', is scheduled to be released in 2024, and will center on Mufasa's childhood, friendships, relationships, and major events that ultimately lead to him becoming king of the Pride Lands.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Mundhada |first=Tejas |date=September 11, 2024 |title='One Of My Greatest...': This Will Change The Way You See Aaron Pierre Taking Over the Mufasa Role from Late James Earl Jones |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/hollywood/one-of-my-greatest-this-will-change-the-way-you-see-aaron-pierre-taking-over-the-mufasa-role-from-late-james-earl-jones-1347293 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240927145153/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/hollywood/one-of-my-greatest-this-will-change-the-way-you-see-aaron-pierre-taking-over-the-mufasa-role-from-late-james-earl-jones-1347293 |archive-date=September 27, 2024 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |work=[[Pinkvilla]]}}</ref>
== Notes ==
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[[Category:The Lion King (franchise) characters]]
[[Category:Male characters in animated films]]
[[Category:Disney animated characters]]