Rafiki (2019 film)

"Do you see any other big, lovable chunk of warthog here?" This article is about the character from the 2019 film. You may be looking for the character from the 1994 film.

"If you tell me, I'll still act surprised!" Watch out! This article contains spoilers from recently or soon-to-be released material.

Rafiki (2019 film)
Physical Attributes
Gender	Male
Species	Mandrill
Skin color	Red, blue
Fur color	Brown
Eye color	Yellow
Biographical Information
Name meaning	Friend[1]
Status	Living
Residence	Pride Lands

Rafiki is an adult male mandrill.

Biography

The Lion King

At Pride Rock, Rafiki presents the newborn prince, Simba, to the animals of the Pride Lands. After the ceremony, he draws a painting of Simba on his tree.

Months later, Scar becomes the king and allows the hyenas to take over the kingdom. Rafiki and Zazu watch from a distance in disapproval.

Years after, a piece of Simba’s mane reaches Rafiki’s tree, and he realizes that Simba is alive. He journeys to the jungle, where he finds Simba distressed over the prospect of returning home. Rafiki reveals that he had known Simba’s father, Mufasa, and implores Simba to follow him in order to see his father again.

Rafiki leads Simba on a chase through the jungle until they reach a pool. He instructs Simba to look at his reflection. Though at first doubtful, Simba does so and sees Mufasa’s face in the water. He encounters the spirit of his father, after which he agrees to return home. Rafiki celebrates the decision as Simba races off.

Later, during the battle at Pride Rock, Rafiki uses his staff to fend off hyenas. After the pride achieves victory, Rafiki watches Simba ascend Pride Rock.

Months later, he presents Simba’s cub to the Pride Lands.

Behind the scenes

• Rafiki is voiced by John Kani.

References