Billy Eichner and Seth Rogen just can’t wait to voice one of the best duos in Disney history. Eichner and Rogen will star as Timon and Pumbaa, respectively, in the live-action “The Lion King” remake that is set to be released in 2019.
The Wrap first reported that the actors would be taking on the roles of the hula skirt-wearing meerkat and the grubs-loving warthog. Variety later confirmed the news. The animated duo, who was originally voiced by Nathan Lane and Ernie Sabella in the 1994 classic, sang one of the most iconic songs in the film, “Hakuna Matata”—their “no worries” motto.
The live-action “Lion King” remake, which was first announced last fall following the success of “The Jungle Book” remake, is set to be released in theaters on July 19, 2019. It is directed by Jon Favreau and stars Donald Glover as Simba and James Earl Jones reprising his Mufasa role. Beyonce is Favreau’s top choice to voice Nala, though she is not currently confirmed. The film will join the ranks of other successful live-action Disney remakes, including “Alice in Wonderland,” “Cinderella” and “Beauty and the Beast.”
In addition to Lane and Sabella, the 1994 animated film starred Matthew Broderick, James Earl Jones, Moira Kelly, Rowan Atkinson, Jeremy Irons and Whoopi Goldberg. It grossed more than $422 million in the U.S. and over $960 million worldwide. Following the film’s success, “The Lion King II” and “The Lion King 1½” were also released.
Rogen has previously done voice acting for “Monsters vs Aliens,” Horton Hears a Who!” and “Kung Fu Panda.” He is best known for his roles in comedy films, while Eichner is best known for hosting “Billy on the Street,” a comedy game show.
Take a look at how social media reacted to the latest “Lion King” casting below:
Social Media Reacts to Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner “The Lion King” Casting
Gotta say, Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner as Timon and Pumba fits surprisingly well. #LionKing
— Josh Stepp (@JoshAStepp) April 25, 2017
I. Can't. Handle. This!!!! #lionking pic.twitter.com/XfsKQ7IVd3
— Anne Marie (@AwesomeAMT) April 25, 2017
Billy Eichner is a great choice for Timon in The Lion King, but I really wanted Nathan Lane to reprise the role.
— Matt Bellissimo (@MattBellissimo) April 25, 2017
In a near-perfect casting move, Seth Rogen is Pumba in the upcoming Lion King movie. So excited.
— ⭕️ คlly (@grumpyrobins) April 25, 2017
Good choice https://t.co/MkDgAK8hsy
— Brett (@TheBeardsley) April 26, 2017
#LionKing Nothing's gonna beat the classic but this casting is pic.twitter.com/E3LUyNcu2U
— onerepublife (@tifffnco) April 25, 2017
What about James Franco and Seth Rogan instead https://t.co/RefoqTRswk
— no I don't know where I got Abbey from Elizabeth (@elezibath_rose) April 26, 2017
Seth Rogen has been cast to voice Pumbaa and Billy Eichner to voice Timon in the Lion King live action film
I AM READY pic.twitter.com/ZmFsD8CeUG
— PerksOfBeingAFanboy. (@LiamKelsall) April 25, 2017
Can you picture Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner in the roles of Pumbaa and Timon? Will you be going to see the live-action remake of “The Lion King”? Sound off in the comments section below!
Photo credit: Walt Disney Pictures
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