Is Disney Going to Make a Lion King 3?

Despite the enduring popularity of the Lion King franchise, there has been no official announcement regarding a third entry in the series. As of August 2023, the talk in the industry circles and media has largely revolved around the upcoming animated film, Lion King: Mufasa, set to release in December. This limited interest suggests that a new Lion King film might not generate the same enthusiasm as it would during a significant release date like the year-end season.

Previous Entries in the Lion King Franchise

Trying to understand why there has been no news about a Lion King 3 can lead us to explore the existing entries in the franchise. The Lion King 3, as it is currently recognized, was not a direct sequel to Lions King II: Simba’s Pride. Instead, it was a prequel, focusing on the events that took place before and during the original film.

The earlier Lion King 3, known as The Lion King 1 1/2, was released in 2004. This movie was not a direct sequel to the second film. Instead, it provided an alternate perspective on the original story, told from the viewpoints of Timon and Pumbaa. Interestingly, in other regions, it is referred to as The Lion King 3: Hakuna Matata. This naming convention can complicate matters as it is not clear if Disney would introduce another number if a new sequel were to be released in the future.

The Naming Conundrum

Given the current situation, a new Lion King film would likely have a title rather than another number. In the case of The Lion King 1 1/2, the unusual numbering makes it stand out from the usual sequel titles. This suggests that Disney might avoid another number for a new entry to maintain clarity and continuity for fans.

While the franchise has a rich history, with rides, stage adaptations, and countless sequels, the most recent releases have not sparked the same level of anticipation as the original or even the second film. This absence of buzz could be a reason why a new Lion King 3 has not been announced.

Conclusion

As of now, there is no official news about a new Lion King 3. However, the franchise remains a beloved part of popular culture. Fans eagerly anticipate any new release, while the industry waits to see if Disney will bring back Pumbaa and Timon or introduce a brand new story to the Lion King saga.