7 Fun Facts About Mufasa

1. A Shakespearean Influence

Part of the inspiration for Mufasa came from King Hamlet (father of Hamlet) from the famous Shakespeare play (which also served as inspiration for The Lion King). The two had many similarities, including the fact that they were both murdered by their younger brother, who wanted the throne for himself. Both would appear as ghosts before their son to convince him to reclaim the throne. Unlike Mufasa, Shakespeare’s King Hamlet was only interested in having his death avenged. Mufasa, on the other hand, was more benevolent and wanted to preserve the sanctity of the Circle of Life. Mufasa also had a much better sense of humor!

2. Darth…Mufasa?

Mufasa was famously voiced by the legendary James Earl Jones. One of the clinching factors for Jones was his distinctive and powerful voice, which the directors likened to a lion’s roar.

3. Or Not?

Jones was not the first choice, however! Sean Connery and Liam Neeson had both turned down the part. (We can just imagine Neeson as Mufasa: “Scar, I have a particular set of skills…”)

4. That Dignified Smile!

Jones also provided inspiration for the look of the character. Supervising animator Tony Fucile recalled that Jones provided the regal quality and fatherly warmth that Mufasa embodied. On a lighter note, Jones often had what he described as a “dopey smile” during the recording sessions, and this subtlety was incorporated into Mufasa.

5. A Regal Cameo

Mufasa and James Earl Jones would later cross paths in Fantasia 2000…sort of. As Jones introduces the “Carnival of Animals” segment, you can see a figurine of Mufasa sitting behind him on one of the animator’s desks!

6. Mufasa Returns

Jones would return as Mufasa for the 2019 CGI remake of The Lion King. Director Jon Favreau described Jones’ return as “carrying the legacy across” the original film and the remake. He also remarked that the actor’s change in voice tonality (don’t forget, the remake was made 27 years after the original!) perfectly suited the role, as he “sounds like a king who’s ruled for a long time.”

7. A Royal Pairing

In the animated film, Mufasa’s mate, Queen Sarabi, was played by Madge Sinclair. Jones and Sinclair had previously portrayed another royal couple, King Jaffe and Queen Aeoleon, in the 1988 Eddie Murphy film Coming to America.

Discover Even More Fun Facts About Mufasa With the New Winter Issue of Celebrations Disney Magazine!

Immerse yourself in the magic of Disney with features and pictorials on:
• One Last Look at Tom Sawyer Island
• Exploring Frontierland and DinoLand U.S.A.
• Holiday Celebrations in Disney Parks Around the World
• Camping Under the Stars at Fort Wilderness Campground
• The History of the Main Street Emporium
• Featured Film: Dinosaur
• 10 Things You May Now Know About Mufasa
• and Much More!!

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