Disney’s highly anticipated prequel, Mufasa: The Lion King, is set to stream exclusively on Disney+ starting March 26, 2025. Directed by Barry Jenkins, the film explores the origin story of Mufasa, the legendary king of Pride Rock. After an impressive $709 million global box office run, the film is now set to reach an even wider audience through its digital release.
A Box Office Success Story
Mufasa: The Lion King hit theaters on December 20, 2024, and quickly became one of the highest-grossing animated films of the year. The film earned approximately $245.9 million in North America and $454.4 million internationally, reinforcing the enduring appeal of The Lion King franchise. The film’s strong performance aligns with a broader resurgence in family-friendly theatrical releases, a trend that saw family films generating nearly $7 billion in 2024.
The Story of Mufasa: The Lion King’s Rise
Unlike the 2019 photorealistic remake of The Lion King, which retold the 1994 classic, Mufasa: The Lion King introduces a new narrative that focuses on Mufasa’s journey from an orphaned cub to a leader. The story unfolds as Rafiki narrates Mufasa’s past to Kiara, Simba and Nala’s daughter, offering fresh insights into one of Disney’s most beloved characters.
A Stellar Voice Cast
The film boasts a star-studded voice cast, blending returning actors with fresh talent:
- Aaron Pierre as young Mufasa
- Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Taka (who later becomes Scar)
- Donald Glover as Simba
- Seth Rogen as Pumbaa
- Billy Eichner as Timon
- Tiffany Boone and Mads Mikkelsen in supporting roles
The decision to expand on Mufasa’s early years adds an emotional depth that complements the original Lion King while standing on its own as a unique installment in the franchise.
Disney+ Streaming and Home Release
Fans eager to relive the film’s magic can stream it exclusively on Disney+ from March 26. For those who prefer to own a copy, the film became available for digital purchase on February 18, with 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD editions arriving on April 1, 2025.
Will “Mufasa” Expand The Lion King Universe?
With Mufasa: The Lion King performing well at the box office and generating strong anticipation for its Disney+ release, many are wondering if Disney will expand the franchise further. While no sequel or spin-off has been officially announced, the film’s success suggests that Disney may explore more stories within The Lion King universe.
For now, fans can prepare to experience the legacy of Mufasa once again on Disney+ starting March 26.
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