Alfre Woodard joins Disney’s Live-Action ‘Lion King’

Posted by | Ray Cornelius

Award-winning TV and film diva and one of my favorite actresses—Alfre Woodard—will star in the upcoming live-action version of Disney’s “The Lion King.” According to S&A, she is taking on the role of Sarabi, Simba’s mother. The character was originally played by the late, great Madge Sinclair.

As previously reported, “The Lion King” remake will feature the legendary James Earl Jones as Mufasa and “Atlanta” star Donald Glover as Simba. Other famous voices attached to the project include “12 Years a Slave” star Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar, Seth Rogen as the hilariously funny Pumbaa,  John Oliver as Zazu and Billy Eichner as Timon.

It has not yet been confirmed whether Beyoncé will star as Nala. However, other entertainment news sites are reporting that she is still in serious talks with the project’s producers. ScreenRant is saying that the “Lemonade” singer could not only star in the film but would also assist with the film’s soundtrack.

“There’s still no word on the voice of Nala, though Beyoncé is believed to be nearing a huge deal to voice the latter character and serve as the Elton John of the new film by producing the soundtrack, which is expected to feature new songs from the Grammy-winning singer as well as old favorites from the original Lion King. That’s why Disney may be saving the Nala announcement for last, because the soundtrack has complicated negotiations and it’s nearly as important as the film itself.”

RC will keep you posted as this continues to develop.

“The Lion King” arrives in theaters in 2019.

Photo Credit: MAKERS.com