Chiwetel Ejiofor Cast As Scar In Upcoming ‘Lion King’ Remake

After the huge success of the live-action remakes of Disney classics like “The Jungle Book” and “Beauty and the Beast,” it was only a matter of time for the studio to take up another well-loved classic in their vast catalog of films—”The Lion King.” With the cast being revealed one by one, the latest casting announcement puts Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years a Slave. Doctor Strange) in the spotlight as the one who will be giving voice to Scar, “The Lion King’s” famous cunning antagonist.

Jon Favreau (The Jungle Book) is attached to helm the film, with a number of famous names now confirmed to star in the upcoming Disney remake. Donald Glover will voice Simba, James Earl Jones will reprise his role as Mufasa, and more recently, Billy Eichner and Seth Rogen were announced as the voice of the iconic “Hakuna Matata” duo, Timon and Pumbaa along with John Oliver as Zazu.

Chiwetel Ejiofor in Secret in Their Eyes (2015). Photo by Karen Ballard/STX Productions, LLC.

Chiwetel Ejiofor Is The Lion King Remake’s Scar

In a report by The Wrap, Disney has finally found their Scar in Chiwetel Ejiofor. Hugh Jackman was previously rumored to take on the iconic role, but the report now confirms Ejiofor as officially locked in to star in the role.

Ejiofor’s singing talent was first seen in the 2005 film “Kinky Boots” with Joel Edgerton. Judging by his performance from that movie, Ejiofor is definitely an interesting pick for the role of Scar. Back in the original “Lion King” animated film, it was Jeremy Irons who gave life to the character. Ejiofor’s performance in last year’s MCU entry “Doctor Strange” also shows how impressive he is taking some sort of an antagonistic role as well. With Favreau helming the project, it’s sure to be another hit as “The Jungle Book.”

Jeremy Irons in The Lion King (1994). Photo via Disney Enterprises, Inc.

“The Lion King” is one of Disney’s animated classic being given live-action remakes. It joins the roster of “Dumbo,” “Mulan,” and “Aladdin,” as the newest films following “The Jungle Book” and “Beauty and the Beast.”

“The Lion King” remake is set to premiere on July 19th, 2019.