'Lion King' live-action movie release date, cast news: Remake scheduled for 2019 premiere; John Oliver joins the cast

Simba in the Disney animated classic, "The Lion King" Twitter/Disney

Following the footsteps of "The Jungle Book," "Cinderella," "Beauty and the Beast," and "Mulan," "Lion King" is the next Disney movie that is set for a live-action remake. Apart from the movie being up for a 2019 release, there are also some familiar faces joining the cast.

"Lion King" is one of the most beloved Disney movies of all time, so it comes as to no surprise that the expectation for the live-action remake will be high. Director Jon Favreau dropped some exclusive footages from the new movie during the recently held Disney's D23 Expo and, based on the reactions of the audience during the event, fans were not disappointed, according to CinemaBlend.

Apart from the footage that was shown so far being visually appealing, the cast of actors and actresses who have been enlisted for the remake are another reason why fans are now looking forward to seeing the movie two years from now. It was recently announced that John Oliver, the host of "Last Week Tonight," is hopping onboard the remake as Mufasa's right hand bird named Zazu.

Hugh Jackman has also been announced to join the cast of the movie. The "Wolverine" actor was previously rumored to play the villainous Scar, but Jackman's representative denied the claims, as reported by The Wrap. Still, he makes a wonderful addition to the star-studded cast. Donald Glover has been tapped to play the character Simba, while James Earl Jones will be reprising his role of Mufasa. Billy Eichner and Seth Rogen were previously announced to be playing Simba's friends Timon and Pumbaa, respectively.

The live-action "Lion King" remake is scheduled to premiere in 2019. In the meantime, audiences can look forward to the live-action remake of "Mulan," which will be coming out in 2018.

News
Archbishop of Canterbury calls for peace in first Easter sermon
Archbishop of Canterbury calls for peace in first Easter sermon

Dame Sarah Mullally has used her first Easter Day sermon as Archbishop of Canterbury to renew calls for peace in the Middle East. 

Easter Sunday and the hope of resurrection
Easter Sunday and the hope of resurrection

The hope of the resurrection is especially precious in a world filled with grief, violence, uncertainty, and pain.

Activists warn Syriacs being erased in Syria
Activists warn Syriacs being erased in Syria

The Syriacs are mostly Christian.

New Iraq report urges stronger action to protect Christians and other religious minorities
New Iraq report urges stronger action to protect Christians and other religious minorities

Jim Shannon MP said the report records both “the progress observed” and “the ongoing challenges” that remain for religious minorities seeking to live in safety and freedom in Iraq.