Blue Ivy Carter to Voice Kiara in 'Mufasa: The Lion King' Alongside Beyoncé

Blue Ivy Carter, the 12-year-old daughter of Beyoncé, will voice the character of Kiara, the daughter of King Simba and Queen Nala, in the upcoming Disney prequel film 'Mufasa: The Lion King.' This marks the first time Blue Ivy will voice a character in a major film, alongside her mother Beyoncé, who will reprise her role as Nala from the 2019 live-action 'Lion King' remake.

The film, directed by Oscar winner Barry Jenkins, will explore the backstory of Mufasa, one of the Pride Lands' greatest kings, and will feature a young Scar, played by Kelvin Harrison Jr. Jenkins discussed the opportunity to work with Blue Ivy and Beyoncé, noting that the mother-daughter duo were enthusiastic about the project. "Blue Ivy, she picked up the mantle and ran with it, you know, and I think it was just so cute to see both of them together," Jenkins said.

In addition to Blue Ivy and Beyoncé, the star-studded cast includes Aaron Pierre as Mufasa, Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Taka (young Scar), Tiffany Boone as Sarabi, and Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros. Several actors from the 2019 'Lion King' film will also be reprising their roles, including John Kani, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, and Donald Glover as Simba.

Jenkins praised Blue Ivy's professionalism and acting abilities, expressing confidence in her portrayal of Kiara. "I could just hear that Blue could do it, that she could play this character, Kiara," he said.

'Mufasa: The Lion King' will feature original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda and additional music and performances by Lebo M. The first trailer for the film was released in April 2024, giving fans a glimpse of the highly anticipated prequel.

Why this matters: The casting of Blue Ivy Carter alongside her mother Beyoncé in a major Disney film is a significant milestone for the young star. It also highlights the continued popularity and cultural impact of 'The Lion King' franchise, with this prequel exploring new stories and characters within the beloved universe.

Director Barry Jenkins expressed his excitement about working with the talented mother-daughter duo, praising their enthusiasm and Blue Ivy's readiness for the role. The film, set to hit theaters on December 20, 2024, will offer fans a deeper look into the origins of Mufasa and the Pride Lands, with an all-star cast bringing the characters to life.

Key Takeaways

• Blue Ivy Carter, 12, to voice Kiara in 'Mufasa: The Lion King'
• Beyoncé to reprise role as Nala, mother-daughter duo excited for project
• All-star cast includes Aaron Pierre as Mufasa, Kelvin Harrison Jr. as young Scar
• Director Barry Jenkins praises Blue Ivy's professionalism and acting abilities
• Film to feature original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, release in December 2024