Disney has tapped Academy Award-winning director Barry Jenkins to helm a follow-up to 2019's live-action Lion King.
According to Deadline, Jeff Nathanson will return to pen the script, the first draft of which has already been completed. As for the story, it's said it will explore Mufasa's origin while simultaneously expanding on the framework set by the first film.
"Helping my sister raise two young boys during the ’90s, I grew up with these characters," Jenkins said. "Having the opportunity to work with Disney on expanding this magnificent tale of friendship, love and legacy while furthering my work chronicling the lives and souls of folk within the African diaspora is a dream come true."
The Lion King, a live-action remake of the 1994 animated classic, grossed $1.66 billion worldwide on an estimated $260 million budget and was largely praised by critics. The film featured an all-star cast of voice actors, including Donald Glover, Alfre Woodard, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, James Earl Jones, Chiwetel Ejiofor, John Oliver, Keegan-Michael Key, Eric Andre, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, Amy Sedaris and Chance the Rapper. However, at the time of this writing, it's unclear which cast members will return.
Directed by Barry Jenkins, The Lion King 2 has yet to receive a release date.
Source: Deadline