Disney's Lion King franchise has seen something of a revival era since the tail end of 2024, and it continues to remind Disney fans just what an impact it had on audiences 30 years ago. However, the storyline doesn't end with Simba and Nala.
Mufasa: The Lion King was a different take on the traditional Disney live-action remake. While it didn't triumph over Sonic and Shadow, it did do something different from other remakes that came before: It told an original story, and people noticed.
From Milele to Disney+
While original reviews were something of a mixed bag, the reception for Mufasa was generally positive, and Disney isn't finished with the royal felines yet. Tons of talent was packed into this project, and it certainly had more than a few stand-out moments.
While we can't speak for everyone's experience, this writer can't go a full day without hearing Taka's lines from "I Always Wanted a Brother" somewhere on social media. That's easily the early signs of a cult film setting in, and if there was any further doubt, just look at the box office.
With a budget of $200 million, the film did better than break even after taking home $707,110,964 worldwide. As one of the most successful films of 2024, clearly Disney was doing something right. Now, all that's missing is a Disney+ release.
With the status of the streaming industry, fans have undoubtedly been waiting for the film to make it onto their home screens since last Christmas. Although there has been no official report from Disney, Roger Palmer of What's On Disney Plus shared the following in his recent coverage from Disney execs.
"During a recent question and answer session at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media, and Telecom Conference, Disney Entertainment’s Co-Chairman, Dana Walden, confirmed that Mufasa: The Lion King will be coming to Disney+ later this month."
Walden reportedly made the following statement.
"On March 12, Moana 2 will hit Disney+, and it will be a huge event for subscribers, both in terms of acquisition and engagement. And along the way, Mufasa hits at the end of March, along the way just a consistent stream of excellent shows."
Along with the recent addition of The Lion King at the Hollywood Bowl, Disney seems to be going all in on one of its biggest successes yet again. While it might be too early to make the call now, having the film made more accessible to more viewers certainly wouldn't be a bad thing for the company.
The rest of The Lion King collection can be viewed in its entirety on Disney+.