The Lion King Wiki
Register
The Lion King Wiki
(→‎Personality and traits: This is a common thing I see with how people see Simba in the Lion King 2. He acts like this because of the trauma in his childhood. He wasn't being arrogant, he just didn't want history to repeat itself.)
(Undo revision 238631 by Sonicisawesome2448 (talk))
Line 752: Line 752:
   
 
Simba also makes an appearance on a float in Paris Disneyland with Timon, Pumbaa, Rafiki, and Scar hiding at the back.
 
Simba also makes an appearance on a float in Paris Disneyland with Timon, Pumbaa, Rafiki, and Scar hiding at the back.
 
   
   
Line 779: Line 778:
 
[[File:BeforeWeAreOne.png|thumb|250px|Simba as a full-grown adult, a caring but overprotective father]]
 
[[File:BeforeWeAreOne.png|thumb|250px|Simba as a full-grown adult, a caring but overprotective father]]
   
Once a full-grown adult and a father, Simba has matured to a new level, now totally fixated on his duties as a king, becoming as wise as his father, and a father. For all his benevolence and inherent goodness, Simba is not without fault, as he is overprotective of his daughter [[Kiara]], willing to break a promise to her in order to keep her safe. In this way, Simba shows that he is willing to do anything to make sure that she does not make the same mistakes that he did when he was a cub. However, doing this does create some problems for him and Kiara.
+
Once a full-grown adult and a father, Simba has matured to a new level, now totally fixated on his duties as a king and a father. For all his benevolence and inherent goodness, Simba is not without fault, as he is overprotective of his daughter [[Kiara]], willing to break a promise to her in order to keep her safe. In this way, Simba shows that he does not fully respect his daughter, seeing himself as the older and wiser pride member. Thinking himself to know better, he often becomes blind to the outside world, focusing only on his family and their safety. In doing so, he comes to harm those around him.
   
Simba is so determined to keep his family and kingdom safe that he sacrifices his slow-to-anger attitude from the first film for arrogance, paranoia, and suspicion, preferring to jump into situations without first coming to understand them. Such decisions frequently lead to clashes with Kiara and occasionally Nala, who recognizes the arrogance that has returned from Simba's cubhood. This is most likely due to the events of The Lion King, when Scar put the guilt of killing Mufasa on to Simba and even tried to kill Simba when Simba allowed him to walk away. This is shown during the nightmare that Simba had, which also shows that even after all these years, those events still haunts him.This made Simba less trusting of the Outsiders, since they sided with Scar. Toward the end of the film, Simba finally loses his rational behavior and temporarily abandons all reason due to being ambushed by the Outlanders and thinking that Kovu set him up, even though he did not. However, this seems reasonable as Kovu was there to kill him before he fell in  Love with Kiara and the Outlanders are his family. He outright states that he must follow in Mufasa's pawprints, despite acting nothing like his benevolent father. He may not have been acting like how Mufasa was since keeping Scar around was the reason that lead to Mufasa death and, as stated before, when Simba let Scar walked away, he ended up trying to kill him.
+
Simba is so determined to keep his family and kingdom safe that he sacrifices his slow-to-anger attitude from the first film for arrogance, paranoia, and suspicion, preferring to jump into situations without first coming to understand them. Such decisions frequently lead to clashes with Kiara and occasionally Nala, who recognizes the arrogance that has returned from Simba's cubhood. At times, this attitude gets the better of Simba, as his enemies take advantage of it to bait him into dangerous situations. Toward the end of the film, Simba finally loses his rational behavior and temporarily abandons all reason due to sustained injuries, a growing sense of anger, and the stress of being a monarch. He begins to throw fits of retribution, constantly overrides pleas, and even outright states that he must follow in Mufasa's pawprints, despite acting nothing like his benevolent father.
   
Perhaps because of his trauma with Scar, Simba is paranoid and unwilling to forgive those who supported him, segregating the [[Outsiders]] for supporting the late Scar (though it was later revealed that Zira had attacked Simba). His trust is considerably hard to earn, as he refuses to accept [[Kovu]] at first, even after the young lion saves his daughter's life. Despite this, Simba does later learn his lesson, being willing to accept the words of his daughter, who said that she was able to learn from him. Unlike his enemy [[Zira]], Simba is eventually able to let go of the past and forgive. Having accepted the wisdom of his daughter, Simba becomes a greater leader, more open to his enemies and willing to give others a second chance.
+
Perhaps because he is so overprotective of Kiara, Simba is paranoid and unwilling to forgive, segregating the [[Outsiders]] for supporting the late Scar (though it was later revealed that Zira had attacked Simba). His trust is considerably hard to earn, as he refuses to accept [[Kovu]] even after the young lion saves his daughter's life. With the belief that he knows best, Simba is quick to jump to conclusions, not giving others a chance to speak for themselves. Despite this, Simba does later learn his lesson, being willing to accept the words of his daughter. Unlike his enemy [[Zira]], he is eventually able to let go of the past and forgive. Having accepted the wisdom of his daughter, Simba becomes a greater leader, more open to his enemies and willing to give others a second chance.
   
 
==Inspiration==
 
==Inspiration==

Revision as of 23:21, 16 November 2019

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


Simba
Physical information
Gender

Male

Species

Lion

Eye color

Red

Biographical information
Also known as

Little hairball (by Scar)
Young master (by Zazu)
Fuzzy (by Zazu)
Kitty (by Banzai)
Junior (by Timon)
Kid (by Timon and Pumbaa)
Sonny boy (by Timon)
Liege (by Pumbaa)
Mon capitan (by Timon)
Dad (by Kion and Kiara)
Lion Number One (by Bunga)
King Zimba (by Hafifu and Majinuni)
Daddy (by Kiara)
Bro (by Bunga)

Status

Living

Residence

Pride Lands

Affiliations

Pride Lands monarchy
Pride Landers
Simba's pride
Lion Guard (briefly)

Titles

Prince of Pride Rock
King of Pride Rock
Leader of the Lion Guard (briefly)

Relationship information
Family

Mufasa (father)
Sarabi (mother)
Nala (mate)
Kion (son)
Kiara (daughter)
Unnamed father-in-law
Sarafina (mother-in-law)
Kovu (son-in-law)
Rani (daughter-in-law)
Scar (uncle)
Askari (distant relative)
Timon (adoptive uncle)
Pumbaa (adoptive uncle)
Bunga (adoptive brother)

Besides, this is my kingdom. If I don't fight for it, who will?
―Simba[src]

Simba is an adult male lion, the king of Pride Rock, and the only son of Mufasa and Sarabi. He is the mate of Nala, with whom he has two cubs: a daughter, Kiara, and a son, Kion.

Shortly after his birth, he was anointed the future king and presented to the animals of the Pride Lands in a royal presentation ceremony. As the crown prince, he was raised to respect the Circle of Life by his father, Mufasa, and trained in the ways of an upright monarch. During this time, Simba's uncle Scar lured him into a wildebeest stampede and used the opportunity to kill Mufasa. Simba blamed himself for the death and exiled himself to the jungle, where he adopted a "Hakuna Matata" lifestyle with Timon and Pumbaa.

As an adult, Simba encountered his childhood friend, Nala, who begged him to return to the Pride Lands and reestablish his birthright as king. Retaining guilt over the death of his father, Simba refused. However, an encounter with his father's ghost prompted him to return home, where he found the Pride Lands in disarray under Scar's tyrannical rule. Along with the lionesses, Simba confronted Scar and engaged in a battle against his hyena minions. After defeating Scar, Simba ascended Pride Rock and established his place as king of the Pride Lands.

In the wake of Scar's death, Simba exiled those who were still loyal to Scar to the Outlands, where they fostered a grudge against the Pride Landers and the royal family. Despite the enmity between the two prides, Simba's daughter Kiara befriended an Outsider named Kovu, who had been Scar's heir before his untimely death. Simba begrudgingly allowed Kovu to stay with the pride, but after the leader of the Outsiders, Zira, framed Kovu for an Outsider ambush, Simba ended their agreement. With tensions high between the prides, the Outsiders and the Pride Landers met in battle on an open field until Kovu and Kiara arrived and implored their leaders to end the bloodshed. The Outsiders assented and switched sides, and Simba welcomed them back into the pride.

Biography

The Lion King

Cubhood

Scar: I was first in line...until the little hairball was born.
Mufasa: That 'hairball' is my son. And your future king.
—Mufasa and Scar about Simba
Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Rafiki presents Simba to the animals of the Pride Lands

At the beginning of the film, a newborn Simba lies curled in his mother's paws. For the ceremony, Rafiki cracks open a gourd and makes a red mark on Simba's forehead, naming him the future king. He sprinkles sand on the newborn's head, making Simba sneeze, and then picks him up, presenting the cub to all the animals in the Pride Lands who are gathered to see him.

Simba soon grows into a lively, playful cub. He is the first to wake up one morning, coming to the edge of Pride Rock to see whether it is dawn yet. When he sees that the morning is approaching, Simba runs into the royal den, where all the lions are fast asleep. When he finds his parents asleep at the back, he starts to wake them up. He recalls that Mufasa had promised to show him the kingdom. Finally, Mufasa gets up. Simba happily scampers ahead of his parents, rubbing affectionately against his mother's leg before following his father to the summit .

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Mufasa teaches Simba about the Circle of Life

Simba and his father climb to the top of Pride Rock, where Mufasa explains to his son that everything the light touches is their kingdom. He goes on to say that after his passing, Simba will become the new king. The cub questions the "shadowy place," and Mufasa explains that it is beyond their borders, so he must never go there. As they go on a walk through the Pride Lands, Mufasa tells Simba about the Circle of Life, explaining that every living thing "from the crawling ant to the leaping antelope" is connected and exists together in a delicate balance. While they are walking, Zazu, Mufasa's majordomo, gives the king a morning report. Simba, bored, tries to practice pouncing. After some instruction from his father, Simba succeeds in pinning down Zazu. As Zazu is on his back, a mole pops up beneath him and informs Zazu and Mufasa that there are dangerous hyenas in the Pride Lands. Mufasa leaves to deal with the threat, forbidding Simba to come with him.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Simba's uncle, Scar, tricks him into venturing beyond the Pride Lands' borders

Disappointed, Simba returns to Pride Rock to find his uncle Scar moping in the shadows. He gleefully informs Scar that he will one day be the king of Pride Rock, irritating Scar, who unenthusiastically tells Simba to forgive him for not leaping for joy, since he has a "bad back." He then flops down in depression, but Simba, unaware of why his uncle is in a bad mood, asks Scar what he will be once Simba is king. Scar replies, "A monkey's uncle," making Simba laugh. The cub tells his uncle that he is so weird, and Scar tells him that he has "no idea." Scar then asks Simba whether his father had showed him what lies beyond the northern border. Simba admits that he has been forbidden to go there, and Scar acts relieved, claiming that only the bravest lions go there. Objecting, Simba says that he's brave and demands to know what's out there. "Accidentally," Scar lets it slip that there is an elephant graveyard in the shadows, aware that Simba's curiosity will lead him there. Simba is excited at the prospect of an adventure but promises his uncle that he won't visit the graveyard.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Simba and his best friend, Nala, sing "I Just Can't Wait to Be King", during which they anticipate Simba's rule over the kingdom

Leaving Scar, Simba goes to his best friend Nala, who is being bathed by her mother Sarafina, opposite Simba's own mother Sarabi. Simba tries to get Nala to accompany him somewhere without giving away the location of their adventure. When asked where they are headed by his mother, he lies, saying, "Around the Water Hole." Sarabi sends Zazu to accompany the cubs, much to their dismay.

On the way to the Water Hole, Zazu makes a nostalgic comment about how the two are "betrothed, intended, affianced," meaning that they are set to be mates and rule the Pride Lands together. Since they are just children, they find it weird. The duo then sing the song "I Just Can't Wait to be King", during which they lose Zazu.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Simba, Nala, and Zazu are cornered by a trio of hyenas

After losing track of Zazu, Simba brags to Nala, claiming that he is a genius for getting rid of Zazu. Nala opposes him, arguing that she deserves credit since she came up with the plan. Simba jumps on her to make her admit that he is the best, but she flips him onto his back, teasing him for getting pinned.

Simba tells her to let him go but then jumps on her again, and the cubs roll down a cliff. Nala again flips Simba, but then a geyser beside them shoots skyward, and they realize that they are in the Elephant Graveyard.

After the cubs make a quick exploration, Zazu catches up with them, though Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed soon show up. Simba tries to be brave in front of the hyenas, but, realizing the danger, he makes a frantic effort to escape, with the hyenas in hot pursuit. The cubs manage to get away from the hyenas, but Zazu is caught and thrown into a geyser. Simba and Nala come back to defend Zazu from the hyenas, and Simba tells the hyenas to fight someone their own size. Shenzi suggests that Simba is just the right size, and Simba realizes that he has overstepped his authority. It proves to be too late for the cubs, because the hyenas come for another attack. The cubs flee again and use the backbone of an elephant like a roller coaster that sends them flying from the hyenas. While climbing a mountain of bones, Nala slips, and Simba runs back to save her, swiping Shenzi in the face and helping Nala climb back to the top of the hill. The chase leads to Simba and Nala being cornered in a cave. Simba tries to protect Nala by making a roar to scare the hyenas away, but he is unsuccessful.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Mufasa teaches Simba about their ancestors, the Great Kings of the Past

Just then, Mufasa arrives and pins down the hyenas, who flee in fear. Simba approaches his father and tries to speak, but Mufasa interrupts, accusing Simba of deliberately disobeying him. Simba quietly apologizes, but Mufasa just says, "Let's go home." Simba follows him, bowing his head, as Nala whispers to him that she'd thought he'd been very brave.

En route to Pride Rock, Mufasa stops on their way through the savanna. Simba bows his head in the grass when he hears that Mufasa wants to speak with him. Zazu then comes to the cubs and says that he will take Nala home. Putting his wings on Simba's shoulders, he wishes him good luck. A little scared, Simba sends one last look at Nala, who leaves. Mufasa then calls Simba to come to him. Going to his father, Simba accidentally steps into his father's pawprint, realizing just how much bigger and wiser Mufasa is.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Scar instructs Simba to wait for Mufasa in the gorge

Once by the king's side, Simba is admonished by his father, who expresses disappointment in him and anger that he'd disobeyed. Simba says that he had been trying to be brave like him, but Mufasa explains that even kings get scared, just as he had been that day because he'd almost lost Simba. No longer so scared, Simba jokes that the hyenas had been even more scared.

In response, Mufasa playfully says, "Because no one messes with your dad!" He then picks Simba up and gives him a playful noogie. After playing together under the sky, Mufasa tells Simba about the Great Kings of the Past, who are looking down on them from the stars. He reminds Simba that whenever he feels alone, the stars will always be there to guide him, as will Mufasa.

The next day, Scar, who had been planning to kill Mufasa and Simba in order to become king, takes Simba with him to the Gorge, saying that Mufasa has a "surprise" for him. Simba begs his uncle to tell him what it is, but Scar walks away after teasing him about practicing his "little roar." Unknown to Simba, Scar signals Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed to start a stampede of frightened wildebeests into the gorge below.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Simba is trapped amidst a wildebeest stampede

While Simba practices his roar a little louder than usual, the wildebeests charge down the cliff face in the direction of Simba. Terrified, the young cub runs for his life. Meanwhile, Scar, pretending to be terrified and nervous, runs to Mufasa, panting that Simba is in the Gorge. Immediately, Mufasa rushes to the Gorge to save his son, who desperately manages to jump and cling on to a branch while the wildebeests thunder below him. While Mufasa fights through the stampede, one of the wildebeests collides with the branch and breaks it, sending Simba flying into the air. Mufasa leaps up to catch his son, but he drops him upon impact with one of the wildebeests. Becoming stuck in the stampede again, Simba dodges a few wildebeests before again being picked up by Mufasa, who then gets him to safety. Pulled back into the herd, Mufasa fights until he can throw himself onto a ledge, where he clings for dear life.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

After Mufasa is trampled to death by the wildebeests, Scar advises a hurt and confused Simba to leave the Pride Lands

Seeing this, Simba runs to the top of the cliff. As he reaches the top, he sees his father plummet into the stampede below, not knowing that he'd been thrown by Scar. He cries out and races down to the bottom of the Gorge to find his father's body under the branch that he had been clinging to. Hoping that his father isn't dead, he tries to revive him. Realizing that Mufasa is neither moving nor breathing, he calls for help but starts to cry and crawls underneath his father's forepaw when he realizes that there is no hope.

Scar approaches and manipulates Simba into believing that he is responsible for his father's death, claiming that Simba's roar had caused the stampede and that if it hadn't been for Simba, Mufasa would still be alive. When asked what his mother will think, Simba doesn't know what to do, so Scar tells him to run away and never return. After Simba scampers away, Scar sends Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed to kill the cub.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Simba is taken in by Timon and Pumbaa, who teach him about their worry-free way of life

Panicked, scared, and now chased by the hyenas, Simba runs out of the Gorge and comes out at the top of a steep cliff. With a patch of sharp thorns below, Simba has no choice but to jump down the cliff to escape the predators. He tumbles down and forces himself through, but the hyenas don't follow, thinking that Simba is as good as dead out in the barren desert anyway.

Tired and dehydrated, Simba wanders into the desert. In the burning heat, he eventually faints. Waiting for him to die, vultures circle overhead, but a meerkat named Timon and a warthog named Pumbaa scare away the vultures and save the unconscious cub. They revive him and ask him if he is okay. He shakily replies and starts to wander off. Timon and Pumbaa ask what he'd done to be so sad, but Simba doesn't want to talk about it. Timon and Pumbaa then take the cub into a jungle to teach him to forget the past and live by "Hakuna Matata." During the song "Hakuna Matata", the duo have Simba eat bugs, explore his new home, and live without worry. The trio walk across a log, which represents a few years, during which Simba transitions from a cub to an adolescent to an adult.

Adolescence

File:Teen Simba.png

Adolescent Simba

Simba's adolescence is only briefly shown during the log sequence of "Hakuna Matata." Simba is older than in The Lion King 1½ (in which his adolescent self makes a longer appearance), evident by the mane that begins to run down his neck and the mane that begins to appear on his chest and lower body, as well as longer fur on his elbows.

Young adulthood

Simba: That's not my father. That's just my reflection.
Rafiki: No. Look harder. You see, he lives in you.
—Rafiki to Simba[src]
Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Hurt by Timon and Pumbaa's disbelief in the Great Kings of the Past, Simba mourns his father's absence

Growing up in the jungle, Simba learns to be carefree and forget about his past and responsibilities with Hakuna Matata. Although seemingly happy in the jungle, he feels homesick when stargazing with his friends, recalling what his father had told him years ago when they'd looked up at the stars together. He is upset when Timon's comments mock the Great Kings of the Past. Hurt by his friends' comments, Simba leaves to flop down on a rock in grief over his dead father.

A few days later, Simba hears Timon and Pumbaa yelling for help and immediately rushes to their rescue, finding himself face-to-face with a hungry lioness. After wrestling ferociously with the lioness (with Timon cheering him on), Simba is flipped onto his back, a move that he instantly recognizes as belonging to Nala. When he mentions Nala's name, the lioness becomes surprised and backs away. When she asks who he is, Simba tells her his name, and the lioness is surprised to recognize her childhood friend.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Simba is reunited with his childhood friend, Nala

As they rejoice, Simba introduces Nala to his new friends, and she tells Simba that he is the rightful king. Simba rejects his responsibility and refuses to go back, still believing that he is guilty of killing Mufasa. Still, he comforts Nala as she struggles with the reality of him being alive after all these years.

Enjoying a peaceful sunset evening together, the two lions realize that their childhood friendship has blossomed into love. However, that evening, Nala tries to explain to Simba the fate of the Pride Lands under Scar's reign, trying to persuade him to go back, since he is their only hope. Despite her desperation, he refuses. Disappointed with Simba's new behavior, Nala tells him that he isn't the Simba she knows and remembers, to which he admits that he isn't. Then Simba asks Nala if she is now satisfied, and Nala declines, saying that she is just disappointed.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Nala urges Simba to return to the Pride Lands, but he stubbornly refuses

Simba tells Nala that she is starting to sound like his father, to which she replies, "Good! At least one of us does!" Enraged, Simba yells at her and then marches away in a huff. Alone in a grassy field, he yells to the sky at Mufasa for not being there for him when he'd promised years earlier that he would. Simba then labels the blame on himself, hanging his head in shame.

Soon, Simba notices Rafiki singing in a tree. Trying to get away from him, Simba goes to lie down away from the baboon. Rafiki refuses to leave him alone, so Simba asks him who he is. However, in response, Rafiki asks Simba who he is. Simba doesn't know anymore, and after Rafiki chants in his ear, the baboon tells Simba that he is Mufasa's boy. Surprised to hear Mufasa's name, Simba chases the wise baboon and asks him if he'd known his father, to which Rafiki corrects Simba and tells him that he knows his father. After Simba sadly tells him that Mufasa had died a long time ago, Rafiki tells Simba that he is wrong again and explains to him that Mufasa is still alive. The baboon leads Simba to a stream, and as he remarks that he only sees his reflection, Rafiki tells Simba to look harder. The reflection ripples and becomes Mufasa's face. At the same time, Simba hears Mufasa calling to him from the sky, and Simba looks up to see him again.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Simba encounters the ghost of his father, Mufasa

Mufasa's spirit appears in the sky, and Simba instantly recognizes him, astonishingly asking, "Father?" In answer, Mufasa accuses his son of forgetting him, to which Simba denies him and asks how he possibly could.

Mufasa tells his son that he has forgotten who he is and his own place in the Circle of Life. He then reminds Simba that he is his son and the one true king. Simba chases Mufasa's disappearing form in the sky, begging him not to leave him, with his father repeating, "Remember." Rafiki approaches Simba again and listens to him discussing how he will have to face his past if he is to return. Rafiki then whacks him on the head with his stick, causing Simba some pain, and teaches him the lesson that even though things are in the past, they can still hurt, but one should learn from them. As Rafiki swings his stick again, Simba dodges it. Rafiki notices this and asks Simba what he is going to do, to which Simba tells the baboon that he is going to take his stick first.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Simba and his friends return to the famine-ravaged Pride Lands

The lion snatches it away from him and throws it into the grass. However, as soon as Rafiki gets it and turns back, Simba has already left to fight Scar and take back his place as the king of the Pride Lands. Overjoyed, Rafiki proceeds to cheer Simba on from a distance, encouraging him to go back.

Arriving back home, Simba is shocked at the dry, barren condition that the once green and fertile land is in. As Simba moves through the Pride Lands, Nala, Timon, and Pumbaa catch up to help him battle Scar. As they make their way to Pride Rock, they find their way blocked by hyenas, and Simba instructs Timon and Pumbaa to divert the hyenas so that he and Nala can slip past them. Simba then tells Nala to look for Sarabi and rally the lionesses while he searches for Scar. He freezes in horror as he hears his mother's name yelled out by Scar, then watches as Sarabi and Scar argue.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Simba rallies his pride against Scar and the hyenas

Upon seeing Sarabi get struck down by Scar, Simba runs out of hiding to his mother's side. At first, Sarabi mistakes him for Mufasa, but she eventually realizes that it is her son when he tells her that he is home. He and his mother briefly embrace. Simba then confronts his uncle, giving him a choice to either step down from his position or fight, to which Scar promptly refuses. Feeling trapped, Scar resorts to accusing Simba of killing Mufasa, and the young lion doesn't deny it. This news greatly shocks everyone, especially Sarabi.

With Nala and the other lionesses watching, Scar corners Simba on the edge of Pride Rock, mocking him that his father isn't alive to save him. As Simba slips from the edge, lightning starts a fire below the promontory. While Simba clings to the edge desperately for life, Scar remembers seeing Mufasa in a similar position before he'd died. Scar latches his claws into Simba's paws and whispers into his ear that he is the one who'd killed Mufasa. Filled with shock and rage, Simba immediately leaps from the edge and pins Scar to the ground. Simba forces his uncle to confess out loud, which leads to a tremendous battle. The hyenas ambush Simba, prompting Nala, the other lionesses, Timon, Pumbaa, and Rafiki to charge in and wipe out the hyenas.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Simba and Scar battle for the throne atop Pride Rock

Simba then chases his uncle to the summit of Pride Rock, where he finally corners Scar. The old king pleads for mercy as he puts the blame on the hyenas, unaware that they have heard everything. Fed up with all the lies that his uncle has told him, Simba chooses not to kill Scar, because he doesn't want to become the monster that Scar is. Instead, he spares his life by telling Scar to run away and never return, the same words that his uncle had used when Simba was young. Seemingly obeying Simba's orders, Scar begins to slip away slowly, but he suddenly turns around and throws burning embers into Simba's eyes.

The two lions fight ferociously until Scar delivers a hard smack that knocks Simba to the ground. As Scar leaps to finish Simba off, the young lion thinks quickly and flips Scar over the edge of Pride Rock, sending him tumbling down the ledge. Simba looks down and sees that Scar has survived the fall, though he is slightly dazed from the attack. However, the hyenas, having had enough of Scar's lies and betrayal from earlier, ignore Scar's pleas for forgiveness and jump on him, devouring him alive.

Lion-king-disneyscreencaps

Simba accepts his destiny as king of the Pride Lands, at last taking his place in the Circle of Life

After rain falls on the Pride Lands and extinguishes the fire, Simba walks down to greet Sarabi, Nala, Timon, Pumbaa, Rafiki, Zazu, and the rest of the pride. Rafiki rattles his stick to get Simba's attention and motions for him to ascend Pride Rock. Simba then walks over to Rafiki, and as Rafiki bows down to him, Simba embraces him before Rafiki tells him that it is time. Simba then climbs up Pride Rock, and as he reaches the promontory, he looks up at a break in the clouds to see a patch of stars, one of which is shining brightly. Upon hearing Mufasa's voice telling him to "remember," Simba gains courage, confidence, and strength, roaring out over his reclaimed kingdom. The rest of the pride roars back in approval.

Some time later, when the Pride Lands flourish once again, Simba and his mate Nala, along with their friends Timon and Pumbaa, stand on the promontory of Pride Rock, proudly looking down at the animals who have assembled below Pride Rock. Rafiki then comes in, cradling their newborn cub in his arms, and Simba and Nala watch happily as Rafiki lifts the cub up for all the animals to see.


The Lion King II: Simba's Pride

Simba: You will not leave Pride Rock. You will stay where I can keep an eye on you, away from him!
Kiara: You don't know him!
Simba: I know he's following in Scar's pawprints! And I must follow in my father's.
Kiara: You will never be Mufasa!
—Simba and Kiara about Kovu[src]
Lion-king2-disneyscreencaps-192

Simba and Nala during the presentation of their newborn daughter, Kiara

In the second film, all the animals return to Pride Rock to welcome the birth of Kiara, the daughter of Simba and Nala. While the king and queen look on proudly, Rafiki holds their cub up for all the kingdom to see.

As Kiara grows up, Simba turns out to be extremely overprotective of her. One time, when Kiara goes off to play, he warns her to stay away from the Outlands and to stay on the path that he has marked for her. Nala teases Simba about Kiara's likeness to Simba when he was a cub. Simba confesses his feelings to Nala about how much trouble they'd get themselves into, to which Nala pins him and teases him, telling him that he means the trouble that he'd gotten them into. She and Simba then chuckle as they nuzzle each other in a loving manner, and Simba smiles warmly at her.

File:Lion-king2-disneyscreencaps-1463.png

Simba defends Kiara from Zira, an Outsider, and her son, Kovu

Nala assures him that Kiara will be fine and goes back into the cave, with Simba watching with an unsure expression. However, as soon as Nala is out of earshot, he sends Timon and Pumbaa after Kiara to watch her anyway. After he realizes that Kiara has sneaked away from her babysitters, he, along with Nala, Pumbaa, Timon, and two Pride Landers, goes out for her, finding her near the outskirts of the Outlands with an Outsider cub named Kovu. Immediately, Simba jumps in front of Kiara, protecting her. At the same time, Kovu's mother Zira launches herself in front of her son to protect him. Simba snarls at her, and Zira mockingly gives a cover-up for straying into the Pride Lands. Simba orders Zira to take Kovu and get out since they are now finished with their conversation. Zira laughs menacingly and tells Simba that they have barely begun.

Lion-king2-disneyscreencaps

Simba sings "We Are One", during which he stresses the importance of forgiveness and equality

Simba then takes Kiara and walks away, sending Nala and the rest of the pride ahead so he can have a word with Kiara. Simba reminds her that she has to be queen someday, even though she may not want to be. He reminds her of the great Circle of Life. Simba then tells his daughter that they are a part of each other, with Kiara responding, "Hmph!" This makes Simba playfully smile and nudge her. After embracing her, he sings to her that they are one.

Years later, Kiara pleads with Simba to let her hunt on her own. He promises this to her, but he once again sends Timon and Pumbaa to watch her anyway, thus deliberately breaking his promise. A few hours later, Simba paces nervously on Pride Rock, where Zazu reassures him that Kiara will be fine. Suddenly, Simba notices smoke on the horizon as Zira's plan goes into action. He and Nala race to Kiara, only to find her talking to Kovu.

Lion-king2-disneyscreencaps-4215

After Kovu saves Kiara from a fire, Simba agrees to let him temporarily join the pride

Simba roars menacingly at Kovu as Kiara reminds him that he has broken his promise, to which Simba, out of fear of losing her again, forbids any more hunting trips for her.

Just then, Rafiki appears and brings up the fact that Kovu has saved Kiara's life. When Simba asks him why, Kovu asks to join his pride. Simba initially refuses, but Zazu tells him that his father's law demands all debts be paid. In repayment for his daughter's life, an agitated Simba reluctantly lets Kovu join the pride, but he doesn't allow him to sleep with the pride. That night, Simba has a nightmare about the stampede. In the nightmare, Simba tries to save his father, who is hanging on to a cliff face. As Simba reaches down, he realizes that Scar is looking over him. Mufasa slips

Lion-king2-disneyscreencaps-5406

Simba confides in Nala, who encourages him to give Kovu a chance

away from Simba and falls to his death, which makes Simba cry out for a brief moment. He then turns on Scar, who morphs into Kovu, shocking Simba. Then Kovu lets Simba fall to his death, and the king snaps out of his dream. Simba is frightened at first but starts to calm down once he looks outside the den, realizing that it's still night. He then looks at Nala, who is happily asleep. So Simba goes back to sleep, still uneasy but more relaxed.

The next morning, Simba has a drink at a water hole. Unknown to him, Kovu is behind him, ready to kill. Luckily, Kiara turns up, wanting her hunting lesson, so Kovu is drawn away. That night, Simba looks down on Kiara and Kovu stargazing together and asks Mufasa for guidance. Nala walks up beside him and tells him to trust Kovu more. That evening, Simba lets Kovu sleep with the rest of the pride in the cave, as it is a fairly cold night.

Lion-king2-disneyscreencaps-6197

Simba takes Kovu to a fire-ravaged portion of the Pride Lands in an attempt to reconcile with him

The next morning, Simba walks in on Kovu about to tell Kiara about Zira's plan, telling his daughter that he doesn't want her talking with him, only to say in a much calmer tone that he wants to talk with him. This makes Kiara brighten up, and Simba smiles and winks at her before walking off with Kovu, with Kiara watching from a distance. During the long walk, Simba explains to Kovu his side of the story about Scar. As they are walking, Zira, Nuka, Vitani, and the other Outsiders surround them. Zira teasingly asks Simba what he is doing outside "so alone." Zira then congratulates Kovu for bringing Simba with him and adds, "Just like we've always planned."

Lion-king2-disneyscreencaps-6338

Simba ascends a mountain of logs in order to flee Zira's ambush

Feeling betrayed, Simba angrily snarls at Kovu, now believing him to be behind the plan. In response, a scared Kovu denies this and tries to reason with Simba that he really didn't have anything to do with Zira's plan. Simba is then attacked by the Outsiders on Zira's orders. Simba slides down a cliff, and the Outsiders attack. He runs into a gorge and climbs up a dam. Just as he's climbing, Nuka grabs his ankle, pulling him down. Simba pushes himself up, dislodging logs, which tumble down and crush Nuka to death. This greatly shocks Zira and Vitani. The entire pride mourns the death of their family member. Simba escapes and weakly makes his way back to the Pride Lands, where he manages to whisper to Kiara, Timon, and Pumbaa about what has happened before he collapses due to extreme exhaustion. They help him back to Pride Rock, where he recovers.

Lion-king2-disneyscreencaps-7123

Believing that Kovu organized Zira's ambush, Simba exiles him from the Pride Lands

When Kovu returns, Simba confronts him, asking why he's come back. Kovu asks for forgiveness, but Simba doesn't believe Kovu. Kiara tries to persuade Simba to listen to Kovu, but he tells her to be silent and then exiles Kovu, to Kiara's dismay. Kiara then quarrels with her father, pleading with him to reconsider, but Simba replies by forbidding her to leave Pride Rock unescorted, saying that Kovu used her to get to him and that he knows Kovu is following in Scar's pawprints and that he must follow in his father's. Kiara angrily yells at him that he will never be Mufasa. This comment hurts and shocks Simba immensely, as he looks away sadly while Kiara runs into Pride Rock before sneaking away to find Kovu.

Lion-king2-disneyscreencaps-7990

Simba leads his pride into battle with the Outsiders

That night, rain descends on the Pride Lands, and Simba asks Timon and Pumbaa where Kiara is. Just as he finds out she is missing, Zazu informs him that the Outsiders are on the attack. Simba commands Zazu to find Kiara and assembles the lionesses, ready for battle. When they approach the Outsiders, Simba gives Zira a final chance to go home. Zira tells Simba that she is home and commands her troops to attack.

After a bitter battle, Zira jumps down off her rock, ready to attack Simba herself. Just as they are about to go into a one-on-one duel, Kiara jumps in front of her father, and Kovu jumps in front of his mother. Simba tells his daughter to stay out of the fight, but Kiara tells him that the fight has to stop. Concurrently, Zira tells Kovu to move, and Kovu tells Zira that he won't let her hurt Kiara or Simba. Kiara reminds Simba that they are "one" and asks if he sees any differences between his pride and the Outsiders.

Lion-king2-disneyscreencaps-8502

Seeing Kiara's acts of forgiveness, Simba attempts to make peace between his and Zira's prides

As Simba realizes his daughter's words, the rain stops, and sun shines down from the clouds. Simba then nuzzles his daughter as they reconcile. Zira orders Vitani to attack Simba, but she refuses to do so and crosses onto his side, as do the rest of the Outsiders. Zira, realizing that she is losing, tries one more time to attack Simba, but as she jumps for him, Kiara leaps in her way and fights her off.

Shocked, Simba jumps down after them just as Zira slips away into the water below. Simba reaches his daughter and helps her back up the cliff, where she is hugged by a relieved Nala. When Kiara is reunited with Kovu, Simba studies him and apologizes to him, finally admitting that he was wrong. He accepts Kovu and the Outsiders into his pride, and they all go home together.

Lion-king2-disneyscreencaps-8761

Simba at last relents and allows Kovu to join his pride

Back at Pride Rock, Simba, Nala, and all the other lionesses watch as Rafiki blesses the union of Kiara and Kovu. Simba, Nala, and the new couple make their way to the top of Pride Rock and roar over their kingdom, with the rest of the pride roaring back in reply. As Simba looks down proudly at the rejoicing animals who have gathered around Pride Rock, the sky opens up and Simba hears his father say, "Well done, my son. We are one."

The Lion King 1½

I couldn't have done it without you guys.
―Simba to Timon and Pumbaa[src]

During Timon and Pumbaa's first attempt at a new home, they witness Simba's birth ceremony. The two later find a small cave in the Pride Lands, which they live in until Simba and Nala sing "I Just Can't Wait to be King," driving them out. Although not seen

Vlcsnap-2011-10-05-18h42m30s112 large

Simba cuddles with Timon

, we can hear Simba say, "I'm okay," after the animal pyramid falls down. Later, after Mufasa is murdered by Scar and Simba runs away from the Pride Lands, he wanders into the desert, ridden with guilt and thinking that he killed his own father. Simba collapses out of fatigue and exhaustion, lying under the sun with buzzards circling overhead. Simba is found by Timon and Pumbaa, who carry him to shade and water and eventually let him live in the jungle with them. Growing up without worries, Simba soon proves to be a difficult cub to handle, and Timon and Pumbaa find it hard to be adoptive parents. Living carefree in the jungle, Simba gets into all kinds of mischief that Mufasa and Sarabi would have never allowed, such as jumping down from dangerously tall trees, swimming down steep and deadly waterfalls backwards, and spinning Timon around like a play toy. He also keeps Timon up all night having to go to the bathroom, wanting a drink of

File:Teen wake Timon.png

A adolescent Simba wakes up Timon

water, etc. After a while, Simba is awakened by a nightmare and begs to sleep with Timon, who begrudgingly agrees.

Months pass, and Simba grows into an adolescent, with half a mane on his head, who seems to beat Timon and Pumbaa at all kinds of alliterative bug-eating contests, including the longest bug belch, slug swallowing, cricket crunching, grub gulping, maggot munching, and the snail slurping contest shown in the film. He has grown a small mane on his head and looks even more hot-headed than as a cub.

After some years pass, Simba grows into a young adult lion who enjoys his life with Timon and Pumbaa in the jungle. Simba has an interesting conversation with Pumbaa about dung beetles before Nala appears and chases Pumbaa, making Simba attack her. He later realizes that it's his old childhood friend. In the "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" sequence, we see that Simba takes Nala on a romantic evening walk around the jungle, unknowingly hurting Timon while the meerkat attempts to split the two lovers apart. After the familiar scene of Simba arguing with Nala about whether or not he should return to the Pride Lands commences, Simba runs off to encounter his father's ghost.

Later in the film, when Simba challenges Scar, he is seen several times echoing his role in the original film.

File:Couldn't Have Done It.png

Simba embraces Timon and Pumbaa

For example, he is seen slipping off the cliff when Scar corners him and later leaping up to force the truth out of Scar about Mufasa's death. Simba is also seen when he chases Scar up Pride Rock and flips him to the ground below. Once the violence is over, Simba thanks Timon and Pumbaa for their help against the hyenas before he climbs Pride Rock, roaring for all of the Pride Lands to know that they have won. At the end of the film, Simba is lying down in the jungle water with Pumbaa, Timon, and Ma. A silhouette of Simba also appears in the theater while Ma rewinds the movie.

The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar

Son, listen. The Lion Guard isn't a game you play with your friends. It's real. The Circle of Life, and your life, will depend on who's on your team. Please, Kion. There are plenty of good lions for the Guard. I need you to take your new responsibility seriously. Just as seriously as Kiara takes hers.
―Simba scolds Kion[src]

Simba can first be seen teaching his daughter Kiara about life as a future monarch atop Pride Rock. Not long after this, he and Rafiki overhear Kion's roar, and the two come to realize that it is time for him to lead the Lion Guard. When Kion and his best friend Bunga return to Pride Rock, Rafiki leads them and Simba to the Lair of the Lion Guard, where he explains that Scar used to lead the Lion Guard until he lost his powers. Simba then tasks Kion with gathering a new Lion Guard to protect the Pride Lands.

File:Simbaandson.png

Simba with his son, Kion

When Simba arrives to meet Kion's team, he reacts in horror to Kion's choice of teammates. He insists that the Guard must be made of lions only and then berates Kion for treating his role as leader like a game. However, after watching Kion and his Guard defeat Janja's clan, Simba realizes that his son was wise to have chosen who he chose, and he congratulates his son on the victory, accepting this new, brilliant assembling of loyal animals.

Other roles

The stage musical

File:Simbabroadway.png

Jason Raize as Simba

Following the success of the film, Julie Taymor created a musical version of The Lion King. In this production, we have an insight into events that weren't explored in the original film, as Simba, young and old, is in nearly all the musical numbers. In the Broadway production, we see a slightly extended role, including scenes that explore Simba's guilt as well as an additional song called "Endless Night."

Jason Raize played adult Simba in the original production while Scott Irby-Ranniar assumed the role of young Simba.

Literature

The Lion King: Six New Adventures
A Tale of Two Brothers

When Simba is too busy to take his son Kopa to the top of Pride Rock, Rafiki tells a story about Mufasa and Scar when they were cubs, convincing Simba that keeping promises is important. Simba ends up taking his mate and son to the top of Pride Rock for some quality family time.

Vulture Shock

After failing to explain what a "family tree" is to Kopa, Simba finds out that his son has been kidnapped by a flock of vultures. Together, he and his mate Nala lead a group of Pride Landers to the flock of vultures to get their son back.

A Snake in the Grass

In a story told by Timon and Pumbaa, Simba is tricked by Joka into abandoning his friends. He later comes back for them and saves them from the coils of Joka.

Follow the Leader

Simba helps Rafiki save his former troop.

A Little Help From a Friend

With his daughter Kiara a lively young cub, Simba promises to take her on a walk around the Pride Lands. Before the two can depart, the king catches wind of Outsiders invading his kingdom and so must cut the walk short in order to dispose of the problem. He later praises Kiara for her quick thinking in saving Timon's life.

The Hakuna Matata Magazine Series
All Mud and Motor Mouth

At the start of the story, Simba asks his friends Timon and Pumbaa how they first came to meet.

Comics

Video Games

Kingdom Hearts

Simba appears as a Summon, using an attack called Proud Roar where Sora charges up the roar and fires off a powerful attack. Though his world was destroyed, Simba's strong heart refused to languish in darkness, keeping his spirit alive and turning him into a Summon Gem, Earthshine. The gem was in turn found by Leon, who kept it as a "lucky charm", and was eventually given to Sora after Leon told him about the hearts of Worlds. After bringing it to the Fairy Godmother, she recognized it as a Summon Gem and immediately restored Simba's spiritual form, making him able to assist Sora in battles. After stopping Ansem, Seeker of Darkness, Simba's body was restored and he returned to his own world.

Chain of Memories
KH Simba

Simba in Kingdom Hearts II

Simba reappears as a figment of Sora's memories, and he is once again a summonable character. He is the first Summon Card that Sora receives, given to him by Leon after finishing his tutorial and visit to Traverse Town.

Kingdom Hearts II

In Kingdom Hearts II, when Sora, Donald, and Goofy explore the jungle in the Pride Lands world, Simba almost attacks them, not recognizing them, as they were turned into animals due to Sora's enchanted clothes.

Initially, Simba refuses to go back to the Pride Lands, stating that he is "not who he used to be." Mufasa then comes to him and tells him to go back. Afterwards, he accompanies Sora, Donald, and Goofy to Pride Rock for a climactic battle against the hyenas and Scar, who has been turned into a Heartless because of his anger and jealousy. Sora leaves after the successful coronation of Simba. When Sora returns, Simba has been driven into doubt by rumors of Scar's ghost. He later gains confidence and stands up to Scar's ghost, which is a manifestation of Simba's uncertainty and fear.

Cam Clarke voices Simba in the above two appearances, with an archival recording of Jonathan Taylor Thomas used for young Simba during the stampede sequence.

The Lion King
SimbaVideogameCover

Simba at the cover of "The Lion King" video game

The game is a side-scrolling platform game, with the controlled character (Simba) having to leap, climb, run and descend from platform to platform. There is an exception during the level The Stampede, where Simba is running towards (or in the Game Boy version, running with the camera looking straight down on top of him, while the Game Gear version is a side scrolling platformer like the other stages) the camera dodging wildebeest and leaping over rocks.

As a cub, Simba can roar, jump on enemies and roll. All three are used to combat enemies and have different effects. Rolling can also be used to access hidden areas and dodge attacks. Adult Simba is stronger, can slash and maul, and he can throw instead of defeating his enemies by jumping on them. He also has a more formidable roar, but can no longer roll.

Simba's Adventure

The gameplay is very similar to the first The Lion King video game, in which the player takes control of Simba and must leap and run between platforms while fighting enemies and avoiding pitfalls. During levels Simba can collect pawprint-shaped tokens which add to the overall score.

Disney Friends

Young Simba also makes an appearance in the Nintendo DS game Disney Friends as one of the characters the player has to care for as a babysitter.

Epic Mickey

As a cub, Simba is one of the many Disney animated characters to be kidnapped by the evil witch Mizrabel. He is later rescued by Mickey Mouse and brought to Fortress. Simba then asks Mickey to find his friends, Timon, Pumbaa, and Zazu.

Magic

Simba (as an adult) appears at two puzzles: at one, he and Nala are shown looking at each other in love, and at the second one, he is shown with Pumbaa, Timon and Zazu durong a rain storm.

Operation Pridelands

After Scar's defeat, Simba tasks Gaucíngoua, along with Timon and Pumbaa, to bring the animals of the Pride Lands back to his kingdom. At the end of the game, he can be seen watching the celebratory bonfire in contentment.

TV Series

The Lion King's Timon & Pumbaa
"The Lion Sleeps Tonight"

While Timon and Pumbaa sing "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" while hunting for bugs, a real lion appears to be stalking them. That lion later turns out to be Simba.

"Doubt of Africa"

When Timon complains to Pumbaa about the tigress' poor hunting skills and sees no point of helping her, he says "Why don't we find a lion cub we can raise? Now here's an idea, he can be on our side!", referencing the time they found Simba and raised him.

"Gabon with the Wind"

Timon places a cardboard cutout of Simba in an attempt to trap Pumbaa, which he later reveals that he was just trying to save his friend from Cheetata and Cheetato.

"Congo on Like This"
I am on your side!
―Simba as he comes to his friends' rescue[src]

After Simba scares Timon with a big roar for fun, much to the meerkat's annoyance, Timon and Pumbaa find a skeleton of a carcass lying on the ground. A tarsier comes out of the bushes to warn that a predator is on the loose. After Timon and Pumbaa show him that they have Simba to protect them, the tarsier tells the two that Simba was probably the one who ate the animal and he might eat them in their sleep. Timon and Pumbaa don't believe him.

File:Colt.png

Simba and Pumbaa laughing after the former scares Timon with his roar

Later that night, while Pumbaa and Simba are asleep, Timon shakes in fear as he hears Simba saying "meat." The next morning, Timon tells Pumbaa that the tarsier was right about Simba, but Pumbaa tells Timon that he's just being paranoid and that Simba only eats bugs. After Simba wakes up, Timon tells the lion that there are free pancakes somewhere in the jungle to distract him. When Simba leaves, Timon goes through his personal belongings to find evidence that the lion might be the predator. When Simba comes back, Timon and Pumbaa quickly put his stuff back in his drawer, and the lion has a feeling that Timon was just trying to get rid of him so that he can go through his stuff and Timon replies by saying that he should trust him and Pumbaa.

File:Colt4.png

Simba's reaction to the smell of meat

Timon and Pumbaa use a test kit to see if Simba really is the predator. After finishing the tests, Timon and Pumbaa use a Crave-O-Meter to find out the result. When the machine says "predator" and runs away, the tarsier reappears and tells Timon and Pumbaa that he knows a safe place they can go to to avoid Simba and Timon agrees while Pumbaa is uncertain.

Colt6

As Timon and Pumbaa are cornered by the wild dog, Simba comes to their rescue

The "safe place" the tarsier guides Timon and Pumbaa to turns out to be a cave filled with other skeletons. The tarsier then reveals himself to be some kind of wild dog in disguise and he chases Timon and Pumbaa to a dead end of the cave, telling them that he has been trying to get them away from Simba for months. This implies that everything he told them about Simba was to trick them into thinking that their lion friend is the predator who ate the dead animal from earlier and that they are his next victims.

Fortunately when the wild dog is about to eat Timon and Pumbaa, Simba finds and rescues his friends just in time and defeats the tarsier/wild dog by putting him in his mouth and spit him out, throwing him far away. Timon, Pumbaa, and Simba happily get out of the cave and Simba realizes that Timon actually thought that he was going to eat him and Pumbaa. Timon denies it and Simba says "You wouldn't be lying to a lion now", which makes himself and Pumbaa laugh, and Timon says "Carnivores, oy."

"Shake Your Djibouti"
Simba: You know what, my lion instincts really did kick in!
Timon: Well I never had any doubt, Simba. I knew all along you can beat the stuffing out of any predator foolish enough to cross your path.
Pumbaa: Me too.
—Simba, Timon, and Pumbaa after the fight with Bartholomew[src]

Upon seeing news reports about Bartholomew's escape from Dr. Happy's lab, Timon and Pumbaa start a training program with Simba in which he protects them from predators while they hide in nearby foliage. Simba, however, pays little attention to their constant drills, confident in his abilities to take on dangerous predators.

File:Djibouti Simba7.png

After failing three attempts to rescue his friends from a predator, Simba believes he's bad at being a lion

Timon and Pumbaa try three attempts to get Simba rescue them from a predator, with the first one being Simba sensing danger approaching, the second one being Simba using his fearsome roar to scare away predators, and the third one being Simba pouncing on predators. All three of these attempts, unfortunately, end in failure and Simba realizes that he's bad at being a lion.

File:Syd5.png

Simba roars at Bartholomew

Wanting to instill confidence in their friend, Timon and Pumbaa plot to have Simba think he has saved them from the escaped beast. The plan backfires, however, when Timon encounters Bartholomew while prepping the event and mistakes him for Pumbaa. When Pumbaa shows up, the meerkat realizes his mistake, and the two friends take off, screaming, into the jungle. They run immediately to Simba and force him into combat against the beast, but Simba quickly learns that Bartholomew is a friend.

In the face of his friends' shock, Simba explains that ever since escaping Dr. Happy's lab, Bartholomew has been lonely and lost. He suggests that they let Bartholomew into their gang. Realizing Bartholomew's potential as a bodyguard, Timon reluctantly agrees to the idea, and Bartholomew admits that he's been giving their motto a lot of thought. Once officially a member of their club, Bartholomew attempts to follow them across a log, but the trunk breaks beneath his weight, and all four friends slide backward into a ravine.

"Palm Beached"

In an attempt to sneak back into the posh hotel after he and Pumbaa get kicked out by Concierge Quint for the second time, Timon places a picture of Simba in order to trick the manager into thinking that they have a seminar.

"Zazu's Off-by-One Day"

A reflection of Simba is shown as Rafiki tries to make Zazu realize the one animal he forgot to count on his list.

"Rome Alone"
Quint: You can't just walk out! A lion must eat the victims!
Simba: But these are my friends!
Timon: Yeah, and friends don't let friends eat their friends!
—Simba being forced by Quint to eat Timon and Pumbaa[src]

Having gotten captured by Romans, Simba is imprisoned in a den at the Colosseum. When he runs into Timon and Pumbaa, the three friends plan to leave the arena for the nice vacation in Rome, only to be stopped by Colosseum Quintius, who tries to force Simba to eat Timon and Pumbaa, otherwise he will have to fight Claudius.

File:Rome Simba with Quint.png

Simba is forced by Quint to either eat Timon and Pumbaa or get into a battle to the death with Claudius

In order to avoid getting eaten by Simba and having their friend die in the battle between him and Claudius, Timon hatches a plan to make it seem like Simba is eating them. The plan, however, backfires as Simba is forced to spit friends out of his mouth after Pumbaa inadvertently passes gas.

Exposed for tricking Quint, Timon, Pumbaa, and Simba make a hasty retreat and they manage to escape the stadium, with Quint in pursuit. After a long chase that culminates to both groups using chariots to escape one another, Pumbaa manages to leave Quint behind, leaving him, Timon, and Simba to try and find a way out of Rome. Shortly after running around however, Quint surprisingly captures Simba and prepares for him to fight Claudius to the death the next day.

File:Simba and Claudius.png

Simba and Claudius prepare to fight

Unable to free Simba from his imprisonment, Timon and Pumbaa devise a plan to make Claudius forfeit his fight with Simba instead. Later that night, while visiting the lion's den, Both Timon and Pumbaa come up with various ways to make their plan work, such as asking favors, blackmailing, and teeth extraction, all which end in failure.

The next day, Simba and Claudius enter the Colosseum, prepared to fight each other. Suddenly just as both lions prepare to fight, to everyone's surprise (and the audience's frustration), Claudius falls asleep. It's then revealed that while Timon and Pumbaa couldn't get Claudius to agree to not fight Simba, their attempts to make him forfeit did keep him up all night, without any sleep. Enraged that Claudius won't fight now, and that Simba still refuses to eat Timon or Pumbaa, Quint decides to fight the trio himself. Simba, Timon and Pumbaa easily dodge his attacks and trick him into knocking the pillars, destroying the Colosseum in the progress.

"Once Upon a Timon"

Zazu informs Rafiki about Simba's royal reputation being at stake, and is a bit concerned about Timon and Pumbaa. As he tries to research the reason Timon is an outcast, he tries to have Rafiki fill out a form documenting the story since he has an important meeting with Simba, but Rafiki decides to tell the hornbill the story himself. Zazu becomes so engrossed with the tale that he procrastinates on his business with Simba. Simba later shows up to find Zazu, but also asks Rafiki to finish telling the story of Timon.

"Beethoven's Whiff"

Simba and Rafiki make Timon and Pumbaa clean up the mess they made after they had a fight.

Around the World with Timon & Pumbaa

As Timon tries to restore Pumbaa's memories after the warthog gets struck by lightning, he brings in Simba, along with Scar, Rafiki, and Piper.

The Lion Guard
"The Rise of Makuu"

When Kion worries about the mashindano between Makuu and Pua, Simba tells him that he must respect and reconize other animals' traditions, even if he doesn't agree with them.

Simba, along with his family, The Lion Guard, and several other animals, watch the mashindano. When Makuu wins, Simba steps forward and congratulates him, before thanking Pua for his services as leader of the crocodiles.

"Can't Wait to be Queen"

When Kiara and Kion squabble over a tree, Simba approaches and tells Kion to back away, for Kiara is going to serve as queen for the day. When Kion reacts with confusion, Simba gently explains that his presence is needed at a funeral in Kilio Valley for Aminifu, a wise old elephant who has passed away. Though Kiara is unsure of herself in acting as queen, Simba reminds her that he had been nervous to rule the Pride Lands on his own, too.

While Kiara stays behind to watch over the Pride Lands, Simba meets with Nala and Zazu to begin his journey to Kilio Valley. Along the way, he worries over having to give a tribute in the elephant language, and Zazu brags over his own skill in mastering animal languages. Unbeknownst to the trio, they have been spied on by Mzingo, who resolves to keep an eye on the doings of the Pride Landers.

As Mzingo flies away, Simba begins to lament having kingly responsibilities, and Zazu reminds him of the perks of the job, singing "Duties of the King". After the song, he begins to coach Simba on his elephantese accent.

File:Kilio Valley.png

Simba, Nala, and Zazu arrive at Kilio Valley

During an elephantese lesson, Simba loses his patience and roars at Zazu, blowing him into a patch of grass. Nala dashes to her mate's side and reminds him that though he may not be an elephant, he is a king and that it is his duty to carry out this tribute to an old friend.

Eventually, Simba and Nala arrive at Kilio Valley, where they witness the elephant herd placing flowers on Aminifu's body. Though saddened by the passing of his friend, Simba resolves to give a proper tribute. After meeting up with the herd, Simba gives his tribute to the elephants, but instead of saying, "He had good on him," the standard elephantese tribute, he says, "He had poop on him." Though Simba is horrified at this turn of events, the elephants begin to laugh, and Aminifu's daughter, Ma Tembo, explains that her father always used to have poop on him and that it was often the cause of much laughter. She then tells Simba that it is good to remember the fun times.

When Simba and Nala return home, Kiara asks how the tribute had gone, and Nala answers that everything had turned out fine. She then asks how ruling the Pride Lands had gone, and though Kiara begins to stumble over her words, Kion jumps in, proclaiming that Kiara is going to make a great queen someday.

"The Kupatana Celebration"

Before the annual Kupatana celebration, Simba compliments Basi's performance to Beshte, who thanks the king and tells him that Basi has been practicing relentlessly. The other members of the Lion Guard express excitement for the upcoming festivities, and Simba explains the importance of Kupatana and how every animal in the Pride Lands meets in peace on that day.

2016-06-30-18 12 51

Simba encourages Kion to rescue the jackal pup

In the midst of the conversation, the Lion Guard overhears a jackal pup being chased in the Outlands. Though Kion is hesitant to intervene, Simba encourages him to save the pup in the spirit of Kupatana. Kion agrees and rushes off.

Later, Simba starts to give his opening speech at Kupatana when he is interrupted by Reirei, who disturbs the festivities with her family. The Pride Landers work together to put a stop to her schemes, and Simba roars to get the jackals to flee. Once Reirei is gone, Kion apologizes for letting them into the Pride Lands, but Simba gently reminds his son that it had been he who had encouraged the rescue of the jackal pup.

"The Mbali Fields Migration"

When the gazelles and zebras begin fighting over a depleted grazing ground, Simba suggests that Kion lead the herds to Mbali Fields, a grazing ground on the edge of the Pride Lands. A shocked Kion wonders if he is ready to lead a migration, but Simba assures him that he will do fine.

"Bunga and the King"
2016-06-07-05 07 02

Simba attempts to climb out of a forming sinkhole

Simba travels with his family to Mizimu Grove to attend Ma Tembo's herd's concert. Kion is alerted by Ono of antelope being stuck in mud and with his parents permission, leaves to solve the problem. Kiara races ahead of her parents just as a sinkhole appears, luckily Simba is able to throw Kiara over to Nala to safety, but becomes trapped in the sinkhole.

Kion and the Lion Guard arrive at the scene and without thinking, Bunga dives into the sinkhole and ends up trapped there too. Knowing that Kion and the Lion Guard will be able to help, Simba tells Nala and Kiara to go to the concert, due to it being traditional for the royal family to be in attendance. The Lion Guard try to use a large log to help Simba and Bunga escape, but it smashes to pieces when it hits the bottom of the sinkhole.

2016-06-07-05 18 07

Simba argues with Bunga

Bunga notices a tunnel which Simba believes might led to Nandembo Caverns and points this out to Kion, who agrees to meet his father and Bunga there. Simba and Bunga argue when Bunga random picks tunnels, resulting in the two splitting up. Simba finds the right tunnel and goes to find Bunga and manages to find him by hearing him sing Hakuna Matata and joins in. Simba tells Bunga that Timon and Pumbaa sang the song to him all the time he grew up, making Bunga believe that they are brothers. The two hear Timon and Pumbaa's cries and go to them, only to find a large ravine sepreates them from Timon, Pumbaa and the Lion Guard. Working together, Simba and Bunga leap over the ravine and are greeted by a relived Timon and Pumbaa.

Afterwards, Simba along with Kion, Bunga, Timon, Pumbaa and the rest of the Lion Guard, arrives at Mizimu Grove just as the concert finishes. Simba apologies to Ma Tembo and her herd for missing the concert and to make up for it, sings Hakuna Matata with his family, Bunga, the Lion Guard and Timon and Pumbaa.

"The Imaginary Okapi"

Kion brings Beshte's new friend, Ajabu the okapi, to Pride Rock to meet with Simba and Nala. Kion asks his parents if Ajabu can become a Pride Lander, and the two agree to let him stay in their kingdom as long as he likes.

"Too Many Termites"
2016-07-20-21 39 05

Simba encourages Kion to fix the termite problem

After Kion notices that there is an excess of termites in the Pride Lands, he comes to Simba, wondering what he should do. Simba suggests that the team ask the aardwolves about the problem. When Fuli questions what an aardwolf is, Simba explains that aardwolves keep the termite population under control. Kion asks where they can find the aardwolves, and Simba suggests that they look in old aardvark dens, since that is the aardwolf's favorite place to sleep.

Fuli and Kion immediately begin to suspect that the problem is their fault, and Kion learns from his father that aardwolves strongly resemble hyenas. This confirms Kion's fears, and he admits to his father that he had used the Roar of the Elders to drive the aardwolves out of the Pride Lands. Simba gently tells his son that he has made a mistake and encourages him to do his best to fix the problem.

"Baboons!"

Simba and Nala leave Kiara in charge of presiding over the Royal Buffalo Wallow.

"Lions of the Outlands"
2016-11-12-21 40 53

A painting depicting Simba banishing Zira and her followers

When Kion goes into the Outlands to help Jasiri reason with the Outsiders, he encounters Nuka and Kovu, the sons of Zira. He is confused that the Outsiders are not welcome in the Pride Lands and reasons that his father would welcome them into the kingdom if they asked. Nuka asks who his father is, and Jasiri reveals that he is the son of Simba.

When Kion meets Zira, Nuka reveals that Kion is Simba's son. Zira moves off to speak privately to Kion, but Kion disagrees with her assertion that lions should rule over all animals. This causes Zira to note the similarities between Kion and his father.

"The Lost Gorillas"
2016-12-04-20 09 03

Simba speaks with Hafifu and Majinuni

The Lion Guard meets two gorillas named Hafifu and Majinuni, who tell Kion that they're looking for a lion named "King Zimba." Bunga informs the gorillas that Kion is Simba's son, and Majinuni explains that they are here to deliver a message from their father, King Sokwe.

Together, the Lion Guard leads Hafifu and Majinuni to Pride Rock, where Kion relates the situation to his father, Simba. To Kion's surprise, Simba agrees that the message is important and explains that every wet season, King Sokwe informs Simba if their two kinds are still at peace or not.

2016-12-04-20 23 51

Simba chuckles at King Sokwe's "peace message"

Just then, the brothers come before Simba, but when prompted to relay their message, they admit that they have forgotten it. With this news, Simba is forced to ask Kion to deliver the gorillas back home and find out what Sokwe's message is. Kion wonders if the brothers should return home themselves and bring back the message again, but Simba points out that peace with the gorillas should not rely on Hafifu and Majinuni.

When the Lion Guard returns to the Pride Lands, they report back to Simba at Pride Rock. Simba prompts the Lion Guard to relate Sokwe's message, to which Kion says, "Kuishi ni kucheka," as Bunga throws a snow ball over Simba's head. Instead of being angry, Simba laughs and comments that no one delivers a peace message quite like King Sokwe.

"The Trail to Udugu"

When Kiara manages to track Kion faster than ever before, Simba comments on the success, and Nala declares that the cubs are ready for a special day. Together, the two descend Pride Rock to speak with their cubs, who are still playing and squabbling. Nala steps forward and tells Kiara and Kion that they are ready to accompany her on the Trail to Udugu, which is a special ceremony for royal siblings. Simba assures Kion that in the absence of their leader, the Lion Guard will be lead by Simba.

2017-01-08-20 21 40

Simba during the musical number "When You're Running With the King"

In the Lair of the Lion Guard, Kion informs his team of Simba's intention to lead them while he is away. He then bids them goodbye and leaves them to wait for Simba. Though Ono begins to anxiously preen and fret over the state of the Lair, Bunga assures him that he has nothing to worry about, and sings "When You're Running With the King", in which he explains what Simba is like.

Simba happens to overhear the song and informs Bunga that his performance had gotten one thing right: that Simba is excited to lead the Lion Guard. Simba then gathers the Lion Guard for their morning patrol and leads them out of the Lair.

On the morning patrol, the Lion Guard tries to correct Simba on his route, but he insists that they take his chosen path. Though hesitant, the Guard agrees to the king's wishes, and the team veers off in a new direction.

2017-01-08-20 26 20

Simba leads the Lion Guard in their first mission as a team

Later, Ono spots a mudslide heading toward a nest of ostrich eggs, but he is cut off in his report by Simba, who finishes the report for him. He then instructs the Guard to follow him while he moves a log in the way of the falling mud. Though confused, the team follows him, and Simba orders them to jump from rock to rock in order to avoid getting caught in the mud. Beshte comments that Kion usually has him walk through the mud, but Fuli reminds him that Simba is in charge, not Kion.

Beshte does as Simba commands, but accidentally slips on the rocks and falls into the mud, carrying Bunga, Fuli, and Ono with him. The four tumble down the slope and dislodge Simba's log, causing it to roll toward the ostriches' nest. Before the log can reach the bottom of the slope, Beshte leaps forward and stops it from crushing the eggs, but Ono warns that the eggs will now be caught up in the mud. Sure enough, the eggs are swept away by the mud, and the Lion Guard rushes to save them. They return the eggs to the ostriches, who thank them for their help.

2017-01-08-20 28 09

The ostriches bow to Simba after he saves their eggs

After the rescue, Simba expresses elation at the Guard's first mission with the king and wonders what their next challenge will be. As he starts to lead the Guard further into the kingdom, Beshte comments that at least he hadn't been mad about their nearly losing an ostrich egg, to which Fuli counters that it's not Beshte's fault that he can't jump like a lion. She then asks why they are a team if they are all going to be tasked with doing the same thing, which prompts Bunga to remind her that Simba is the king and knows what he's doing.

Just then, Ono flies up and starts to report trouble when he is interrupted by Simba, who declares that a herd of gazelles need their help. The Lion Guard then follows his lead down the slope to rescue the gazelles.

2017-01-08-20 33 06

Simba deliberates with the Lion Guard after he gets his tail stuck beneath a boulder

Ono reports that the gazelles are trying to reach a patch of grass above an unstable pile of rocks. Simba comments that the rocks will fall if the gazelles try to ascend them and then shouts for the Lion Guard to follow him. As Simba races away, Beshte asks the others if they should warn Simba that gazelles are easily spooked, but Bunga assures him that Simba know what he's doing.

The team streaks across the plains toward the gazelles, who shy away at the Guard's rapid advance. The herd begins to climb the rock pile, dislodging stones, and Ono yells for the Lion Guard to halt their approach. Simba, however, continues to run and gets his tail stuck underneath a massive boulder. The rest of the Lion Guard gathers around him, and Simba assures them that he is uninjured.

2017-01-08-20 38 54

Simba tells the Lion Guard that Kion would be proud of them

Just then, the Lion Guard overhears ostriches crying out in fear, and Ono reports that the gazelles are stampeding toward the ostriches' nest. The Lion Guard turns to Simba for instructions, and he orders them to leave him behind and save the ostrich eggs instead. Just then, a large boulder tumbles down from the top of the rock pile, and Fuli heroically saves Bunga from being crushed.

After the rescue, Fuli declares that they cannot leave Simba, for he is in danger from the falling rocks. Simba gets the Guard's attention and tells them that he has been ordering them around all day when he should have figured out how their team works. He then asks what they would do if Kion were in Simba's place, and Fuli explains that she and Ono would go after the herd, while Beshte and Bunga would stay behind to assist the king. Simba submits to these orders and starts the Lion Guard's chant as the team races away to fulfill their separate duties.

2017-01-08-20 39 36

Simba explains the importance of Udugu to his cubs, Kion and Kiara

Together, Fuli and Ono catch up to the gazelles, and Fuli orders Ono to speak with Swala, the leader of the gazelles, while she calms the ostriches. Both members are successful, and the gazelles pull to a halt before they can trample the ostrich eggs. At the same time, Beshte and Bunga work together to free Simba. No sooner have they freed him when the rock pile begins to collapse, and the three escape to safety, where they reunite with Fuli and Ono. Simba compliments the Lion Guard on their success and declares that Kion would be proud of them.

At Pride Rock, Simba reunites with his mate and cubs. He asks whether they had found Udugu, and the cubs explain that they had learned to work together as brother and sister. Kion then questions how Simba had fared with the Guard, and Simba admits that working with Kion's team had helped him find Udugu as well. He stresses the importance of Udugu and reminds the cubs that they will one day be responsible for the kingdom of the Pride Lands.

"Ono's Idol"
2017-03-02-01 21 04

Simba praises Hadithi

Simba arrives with his mate, Nala, to praise the legendary eagle Hadithi, who is visiting the Pride Lands. He and Nala invite Hadithi to a Royal Mud Print Ceremony, in which he will preserve his talon marks in mud forever alongside those of other heroes.

However, during the ceremony, Hadithi admits that he had abandoned Ono to danger, and the Lion Guard races to the rescue. After Ono is saved, Ono is honored with the ceremony instead.

"The Savannah Summit"
2017-07-17-01 49 32

Simba tasks Kion with watching over the Savannah Summit

The Lion Guard is playing Baobab Ball when Mtoto the young elephant approaches and informs the Lion Guard he heard via his infrasound that several important Pride Landers are heading toward Pride Rock. Kion realizes that it is time for the Savannah Summit, an important yearly event in which leaders in the Pride Lands discuss how they will proceed during the dry season. No sooner has he revealed this when Ono spots Makuu en route to the Summit. Kion deduces that Makuu must be trying to spoil the event, and he and the Lion Guard take off to thwart the danger and warn Simba.

Once at Pride Rock, Kion tackles Makuu. Makuu protests that he had been invited, and Simba confirms to Kion that he had invited Makuu to Pride Rock himself. With Simba's support, Makuu promises to take his duties seriously, much to the discomfort of the other Pride Lander leaders. Kion attempts to convince his father that Makuu is untrustworthy, but Simba insists that all animals must be treated equally in the Pride Lands, no matter their past transgressions. He then tasks Kion with watching over the event.

2017-07-17-01 52 06

Simba sings "Welcome to the Summit" with Zazu

Together, the party proceeds to Mizimu Grove, with Simba and Zazu singing "Welcome to the Summit, in which they stress the importance of equality and unity.

Later, Mtoto informs the Lion Guard that Makuu is yelling at Bupu at Pride Rock. The team rushes to Pride Rock, where Kion tackles Makuu to the ground. Simba approaches, furious, and exclaims that Bupu and Makuu had been about to come to an agreement about sleeping situations for their respective species. Makuu accuses the other Pride Landers of not trusting him. He then stalks off, enraged, with Simba calling after him desperately. Simba then turns on Kion, angrily explaining that he had included Makuu in the Summit to gain his trust and include the crocodiles in their proceedings. Kion insists that Makuu is dishonest, but Simba accuses Kion of having ruined the Summit, not Makuu. He then leaves to salvage what he can of the Summit at Mizimu Grove.

2017-07-17-02 06 10

Simba compliments Kion for his work with Makuu

Later that day, Simba watches as Kion lies to the Summit that Makuu had fallen into a pit and lost his life in the struggle. A horrified Twiga and Vuruga Vuruga exclaim that they had never intended for Makuu to get hurt, only to fall into a pit of rotten fruit. Just then, Makuu reveals himself and announces to the gathered animals that he had come to the Summit with the intention of helping his float and the Pride Lands, but had only received distrust and hostility. Simba and the other animals fear Makuu's wrath, but the crocodile merely prompts Simba to let the Summit go on.

With negotiations reinitiated, Simba compliments Kion for his work.

"The Traveling Baboon Show"

Simba is mentioned by Kion when the lion cub informs Uroho that he is the son of the king.

"The Lion Guard: The Rise of Scar"
2017-08-04-01 17 14

Simba and his son, Kion, sing "Path of Honor", during which they discuss the joys and burdens of being leaders

During the musical sequence "Fujo", Simba can be seen atop Pride Rock with Nala, surveying the Pride Lands.

Later, Kion talks to Simba about his concerns on Ma Tembo, who has been unsuccessful in her search for water, but Simba assures his son that life is full of responsibilities and that one must face them head-on. Simba and Kion then sing "Path of Honor", during which they discuss the joys and burdens of being leaders.

Some time later, Simba is present for Makini's official introduction to the royal family. He then looks on as Kiara and Makini head off together to help Ma Tembo look for water.

Simba also appears amidst the crowd of animals following Ma Tembo as she searches for a water source.

"Let Sleeping Crocs Lie"
2017-09-04-06 16 50

Simba accuses Makuu of taking over all the water holes

After the Lion Guard accidentally wakes Makuu's float from their hibernation, Makuu goes to speak with Simba about new sleeping arrangements.

Makuu meets Simba on Pride Rock about the water situation. Ono is called forward to help spy out a new water hole for the crocodiles, but while overlooking the Pride Lands, he sees that Makuu's followers have invaded the water holes. Simba starts to blame Makuu for the pandemonium, but Makuu insists that whoever is leading his float has defied a direct order from their leader. He tries to leave in order to settle the situation, but Simba orders him to let the Lion Guard deal with the problem instead. Begrudgingly, Makuu agrees, and Kion leads the Lion Guard to the rescue.

Later that day, Simba attends the mashindano between Makuu and one of his float members, Kiburi.

2017-09-04-06 26 11

Simba banishes Kiburi to the Outlands

Presently, Ono grows tired of the violence and flies away from the mashindano to avoid watching the fight. As he hovers over the battlefield, he notices several crocodiles leaving the event. Ono realizes that the crocodiles are attempting to ambush Simba, and he hastens to warn Kion of the danger. Just in time, the Lion Guard arrives and thwarts the crocodiles' efforts to assassinate Simba. Simba overhears the fight and arrives to find Kiburi's lackeys defeated. He studies the crocodiles and recognizes them as being too dim-witted to have come up with such a scheme on their own. No sooner has Simba realized this when Makuu defeats Kiburi in the mashindano, and Kiburi relinquishes the victory. However, when he stands up, Kiburi declares to the onlookers that his followers have killed Simba and that he is now the ruler of the Pride Lands.

2017-09-04-06 30 44

Simba assures Ono that everyone makes mistakes

Simba interrupts Kiburi's speech, and Kiburi realizes that the Lion Guard has outsmarted him. Makuu approaches Simba and assures him that he had had no knowledge of Kiburi's scheme, to which Simba defers Kiburi's punishment to Makuu. Makuu declares that Kiburi is no longer a part of the float, so Simba takes back over, banishing Kiburi and his lackeys from the Pride Lands.

Later, Ono laments having caused Makuu's float to awaken early. Though the rest of the Lion Guard attempts to reassure him, Ono refuses to accept their comfort and goes before Makuu to apologize. At first, Makuu seems to be growing angry, but then he forgives Ono, much to the egret's relief. Simba says that everyone makes mistakes. He then asks Makuu if this is the new "crocodile way," to which Makuu says that perhaps it is.

"Rafiki's New Neighbors"

Furaha mentions Simba when the monkey informs Rafiki that he and his friends have previously seen Rafiki spending time with Simba.

That afternoon, Simba introduces Makini to a crowd of Pride Landers, and says that Makini will be painting for them as the next step of her training. Simba then looks on as Makini paints a portrait of the royal family.

"The Ukumbusho Tradition"

Simba arrives with his mate, Nala, and daughter, Kiara, as well as the lionesses of his pride, for the Ukumbusho Tradition in Mizimu Grove.

2017-11-19-04 23 07

Simba arrives in Mizimu Grove for the Ukumbusho Tradition

However, in the midst of the ceremony, a horde of bees attacks the elephants, chasing them from the grove. Kion orders his team to chase down the elephants before they can hurt anyone, and the Lion Guard takes off to halt the stampede.

After the bees are driven away, Ma Tembo apologizes to Simba for panicking. When Makini volunteers to collect more yellow fruit for paint for the elephants' sunbursts, Kion suggests continuing the ceremony without any paint. Ma Tembo protests that it is difficult for elephants to break with tradition, but Simba tells her that this could simply be a new tradition for the elephants of the Pride Lands. Ma Tembo then agrees to the new plan, and the Ukumbusho Tradition continues in a new vein.

"Timon and Pumbaa's Christmas"
2017-12-12-02 28 03

Simba agrees to perform in Bunga's Christmas celebration

Kion speaks to his family about partaking in a Christmas celebration for Timon and Pumbaa. Kion's mother, Nala, and sister, Kiara, quickly agree to the proceedings, but Kion's father, Simba, shows little interest in attending. With some persuasion from his mate and daughter, Simba eventually agrees, feeling that he owes it to Timon and Pumbaa for their help over the years.

That night, Simba and his family attend Bunga's celebration rehearsal. Simba questions Bunga as to what they need to do in order to practice for the show, but Bunga remains unsure as to where he should begin.

2017-12-12-02 32 50

Simba questions Bunga on the importance of his Christmas performance

At sunrise, Kion expresses satisfaction with the animals' performances, but Bunga declares that they still need more practice. Ma Tembo points out that they will never be able to live up to Bunga's expectations, and Simba agrees. The group starts to break up and leave, but Kion calls them back. Simba questions his son as to why Christmas is so important, and Bunga explains that he wants to make up for his uncles' good deeds over the years. This convinces Simba to devote himself back to the cause, and he calls the others back to continue practice.

The next day, Simba partakes in the "The Twelve Ways of Christmas" performance.

"The Morning Report"

At Pride Rock, Simba expresses concern that Zazu is late for his Morning Report, as he has never exhibited such behavior before. This leads the Lion Guard to inquire about Zazu's whereabouts.

That night at Pride Rock, having been rescued from Janja's clan by the Lion Guard, Zazu delivers his Report to Simba.

"The Golden Zebra"
2018-01-15-19 28 14

Simba orders the Lion Guard to ask Dhahabu for permission to use her watering hole

Due to a severe drought, the Lion Guard is forced to break up a fight between Twiga's herd and Vuruga Vuruga's herd. Kion takes the problem to his father, Simba, who questions Rafiki on how past kings have dealt with a water shortage. Rafiki is doubtful that the paintings of the past will reveal anything to him, though one such painting depicts a king leading the Pride Landers to a mysterious watering hole.

Makini recognizes the watering hole and explains that she has seen it before in a neighboring kingdom, the Back Lands, and that it belongs to a herd of zebras. Simba deduces that the herd must belong to Dhahabu, and instructs Kion to ask the zebras for permission to use the watering hole in exchange for whatever boon they desire.

"The Little Guy"

Simba is mentioned by Beshte when the young hippo informs Hodari that Kiburi and his float were banished from the Pride Lands for trying to assassinate Simba.

"Divide and Conquer"

Simba is mentioned by Tamaa when the drongo boasts to the Lion Guard that he has mastered Simba's voice.

"The Scorpion's Sting"

While celebrating Kumbuka, Simba is stung by Sumu the scorpion, and quickly becomes very ill. Rafiki instructs the Lion Guard to retrieve some volcanic ash from the Outlands, asserting that it will draw out the venom. The Lion Guard brings back the ash, and Rafiki uses it to heal Simba.

"The Wisdom of Kongwe"
2018-04-21-02 51 28

Simba asks the spirit of his father, Mufasa, for advice on how to defeat Scar

Kion and Simba consult Mufasa's spirit about the troubling return of Scar. Though Mufasa has never experienced the return of an evil spirit, he assures his family that the strength to defeat Scar lies in themselves, as well as in the rest of the Pride Lands. As Mufasa's spirit departs, Kion questions his father as to whether Mufasa had been referring to a specific animal, and Simba comments that he has someone in mind.

At Pride Rock, Rafiki tasks Makini with finding Kongwe, who is the oldest and wisest animal in the Pride Lands. Beshte comments that Kongwe lives near the Urembo River, which is a half-day's walk from Pride Rock. Simba worries that this is too long of a delay, but Fuli volunteers to lend her assistance in order to speed up the trip.

That evening at Pride Rock, Kongwe advises Simba and Kion to be patient. Kongwe then assures Simba and the Lion Guard that good always triumphs over evil in the end.

"Cave of Secrets"

Simba appears in a painting during the musical sequence, "Wisdom on the Walls".

"Pride Landers Unite!"

Simba is mentioned by his son, Kion.

"The Queen's Visit"

Simba meets with Dhahabu to discuss a water treaty.

"The Fall of Mizimu Grove"

At Mizimu Grove, Rafiki and Simba announce Makini's mpando mpaya. In the midst of the celebration, the Army of Scar attacks, and the Pride Landers rise up to defend themselves. The battle pauses when Scar appears in the flames and threatens to overtake the entirety of the Pride Lands. Frightened by Scar's unexpected appearance, the remaining Pride Landers flee Mizimu Grove.

2019-03-31-01 33 33

Simba confronts the spirit of Scar

Kion uses the Roar of the Elders to defeat the Outlanders, while Simba deliberates what to do with Ma Tembo. He approaches the Pride Landers once the Lion Guard has calmed them and admits that he has had knowledge of Scar's return for some time. The Pride Landers disapprove of his dishonesty, though Ma Tembo notes that she understands why he'd kept it a secret. The herds deliberate whether they should leave the Pride Lands, and Simba tells them to inform him of their decision the following morning at Pride Rock.

At Pride Rock the next morning, Kion interrupts Simba's somber opening statement and implores the Pride Landers to follow him to Mizimu Grove before they decide to leave the kingdom. The herds follow Kion to Mizimu Grove, where Makini's baobab tree seed has survived the fire. This inspires the Pride Landers to remain in the kingdom and work together to defeat Scar.

House of Mouse
HM Lion King cast

Simba and friends in Mickey's Magical Christmas

Simba has made numerous appearances in House of Mouse as a minor character. Throughout the series, Simba alternates between his cub and adult selves. In the episode "Timon and Pumbaa," he complains about Timon and Pumbaa's popularity, saying, "Those guys always get all the attention!" In "King Larry Swings In," young Simba is seen in a flashback, falling from Pride Rock after Donald accidentally drops him. He makes brief appearances in Mickey's Magical Christmas, including participation in singing "The Best Christmas of All" with Nala and various non-Lion King characters. He also has a cameo as a cub at the beginning of Mickey's House of Villains, where his and Nala's dinner (a ham from the Elephant Graveyard) is stolen by Ed. In "Jiminy Cricket", Jiminy tells a cub Simba not to goat the Elephant Graveyard, because "there is nothing to see."

Simba is voiced by Cam Clarke in House of Mouse.

Wild About Safety

Simba, as a very young cub, makes a brief cameo in the episode "Safety Smart: Goes Green," in which Timon misunderstands a CFL light bulb as a "cute, fluffy lion." An angry Sarabi soon appears to get back her son.

Bloopers & Outtakes

Simba'sDeath

Simba in The Lion King: Bloopers & Outtakes

In The Lion King: Bloopers & Outtakes, during the end credits of the Diamond Edition of The Lion King, Simba and the other characters are represented as live actors. In the bloopers, Simba appears five times. The first time, he appears when Scar can't pronounce the word "responsible." He later attempts three times to say the phrase "Hakuna Matata" while walking across a fallen tree, but he fails, and he and the crew laugh. The third time, Rafiki falls asleep on a rock during the shooting of a scene, and Simba tries to wake him up, shaking his shoulders, but he fails and proposes to continue filming tomorrow. In the end, he is shown as a baby who is being carried by Rafiki to the edge of Pride Rock, but Rafiki stumbles and lets Simba fall from Pride Rock.

Disney parks

File:SimbaSoundsational.jpg.png

Simba in Mickey's Soundsational Parade

Like most characters from The Lion King, Simba does not appear for meet-and-greets. Instead, he appears in certain shows. He makes cameos in It's a Small World, Fantasmic! and Mickey's PhilharMagic, where he sings "I Just Can't Wait to Be King." In Disneyland, Simba is seen atop a float for Mickey's Soundsational Parade.

Simba has his own spell card known as "Simba's Roar" in the attraction Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom. Simba and other characters from The Lion King are also featured in Disney's Art of Animation Resort in Walt Disney World.

Simba is also a prominent character in Disney's Animal Kingdom merchandise and promotional material. Also in the park, Simba stars in Festival of the Lion King, which is hosted by Timon. In the former Magic Kingdom attraction The Legend of the Lion King, the story of the film is retold using animatronic puppets and scenes from the film.

In Disney California Adventure, Simba makes an appearance in a segment of World of Color. He is seen reliving the wildebeest stampede from the film and can also be seen during the finale.

Simba also makes an appearance on a float in Paris Disneyland with Timon, Pumbaa, Rafiki, and Scar hiding at the back.


Personality and traits

Danger? Ha! I walk on the wild side. I laugh in the face of danger!
—Simba to Zazu

As a cub, Simba is curious, mischevious and adventurous to a fault, always sniffing for something fun to do. Energetic and rambunctious, he can make even the scariest of places into an adventure, with much bravery on hand, evident in the way he confidently stands up to predators and defends his friends even in the face of death. However, unlike his father Mufasa, Simba is less careful about his bravery, placing himself in harm's way on ill-advised trips to dangerous places just for the fun of exploring it. Still young and inexperienced in the ways of the world, his curiousity got the better of him, leading him to go to explore the Elephant Graveyard and consider the consequences only after the fact, nearly getting himself and his friend Nala killed as a result.

File:Sideprofilesimba.png

Simba as a cub; cheeky, curious, and mischievous in nature

Thinking himself strong and capable, Simba has an ego the size of the Serengeti. He is known to claim Nala's ideas as his own and loves to show off his status to the other animals of the Pride Lands, often overstepping his authority in doing so. He basks in the prospect of becoming king and readily looks forward to the day when he can order around his subjects. In this way, he is somewhat stuck-up and pompous.

Despite this, Simba is good at heart and longs to become the wise king that his father is. The cub glorifies Mufasa, wanting to be just like him when he grows up, and suffers much grief whenever he disappoints him. When his father dies, Simba suffers severe emotional trauma, thinking the death to be his fault. Following Mufasa's fall, Simba becomes somewhat withdrawn and depressed, no longer putting value in his own life. It takes the efforts of Timon and Pumbaa to make Simba forget his past and move on with life.

As an adolescent, Simba picks up a happy, carefree lifestyle, thinking nothing of his responsibilities back home. In addition, Simba's vocabulary changes drastically (as he now says "Father" instead of "Dad", and "Scar" instead of "Uncle Scar"). In the jungle, he develops somewhat grotesque habits, burping and eating bugs alongside his lazy companions. No longer the respected prince of the Pride Lands, Simba becomes sedentary and stubbornly refuting of his past life. Having been tainted in mind by his well-meaning friends, Simba no longer sees the need to help others and would rather lock himself away in bliss than face reality.

However, this changes when he grows into a young adult, with his childhood friend Nala reminding him of his responsibilities back home. When faced with his dark past, Simba is prone to reacting defensively, losing his mostly well-controlled temper in bouts of fury.

File:ItDoesnotWorkSimbA.png

A young adult Simba, now accountable and strong-willed

This stems from his sensitivity toward his past, as he thinks himself to be the cause of so much pain and turmoil. Ridden by guilt, Simba will do anything to blame his troubles on someone else, though he ultimately does face the truth.

Despite his guilt-ridden conscience, Simba is forced into maturity when he has to face his past, holding himself accountable to the land he once swore to defend. Once accepting of his duties, he becomes a new character, stronger in will than before. Unlike the old Simba, who would rather avoid an argument, this new Simba does not tolerate being bullied and refuses to stand for abuse, being particularly defensive of his mother. When challenged, Simba becomes rough around the edges, determined to have his way and unwilling to stand for compromise. No longer an innocent cub, he is brave when he has to be, standing up for his land and his pride.

Despite this rough exterior, Simba is still good at heart, sparing his uncle even after learning that Scar has been framing him his whole life, having killed Mufasa in cold blood. Simba's good will only extends so far, however, as he has a kingdom to think about, and he ultimately sets aside total forgiveness in order to keep his pride safe, sending Scar into exile. This decision proves that he is growing into a leader, learning the importance of mercy within authority.

File:BeforeWeAreOne.png

Simba as a full-grown adult, a caring but overprotective father

Once a full-grown adult and a father, Simba has matured to a new level, now totally fixated on his duties as a king and a father. For all his benevolence and inherent goodness, Simba is not without fault, as he is overprotective of his daughter Kiara, willing to break a promise to her in order to keep her safe. In this way, Simba shows that he does not fully respect his daughter, seeing himself as the older and wiser pride member. Thinking himself to know better, he often becomes blind to the outside world, focusing only on his family and their safety. In doing so, he comes to harm those around him.

Simba is so determined to keep his family and kingdom safe that he sacrifices his slow-to-anger attitude from the first film for arrogance, paranoia, and suspicion, preferring to jump into situations without first coming to understand them. Such decisions frequently lead to clashes with Kiara and occasionally Nala, who recognizes the arrogance that has returned from Simba's cubhood. At times, this attitude gets the better of Simba, as his enemies take advantage of it to bait him into dangerous situations. Toward the end of the film, Simba finally loses his rational behavior and temporarily abandons all reason due to sustained injuries, a growing sense of anger, and the stress of being a monarch. He begins to throw fits of retribution, constantly overrides pleas, and even outright states that he must follow in Mufasa's pawprints, despite acting nothing like his benevolent father.

Perhaps because he is so overprotective of Kiara, Simba is paranoid and unwilling to forgive, segregating the Outsiders for supporting the late Scar (though it was later revealed that Zira had attacked Simba). His trust is considerably hard to earn, as he refuses to accept Kovu even after the young lion saves his daughter's life. With the belief that he knows best, Simba is quick to jump to conclusions, not giving others a chance to speak for themselves. Despite this, Simba does later learn his lesson, being willing to accept the words of his daughter. Unlike his enemy Zira, he is eventually able to let go of the past and forgive. Having accepted the wisdom of his daughter, Simba becomes a greater leader, more open to his enemies and willing to give others a second chance.

Inspiration

The main inspiration for the final version of Simba is Prince Hamlet.

File:TheLionKing&Hamlet.png

Simba and Hamlet meet the ghosts of their respective fathers

Hamlet is the main protagonist of Shakesphere's Hamlet and the prince of Denmark. The uncles of Simba and Hamlet both murder the prince's father and assume his royal position. Both characters see the spirits of their fathers, who tell them what to do, though Hamlet's father tells Hamlet that the present king killed him, while Mufasa (being Simba's own subliminal interpretation of his father) doesn't reveal Scar's crime. Both defeat their uncles in a final battle, though Hamlet dies while Simba becomes king.

Though Disney denies that The Lion King was inspired by Kimba the White Lion, Simba bears many resemblances to Kimba, including his name and early design (as he was originally drawn to be a white-furred cub). Both characters lose their father at a young age and later encounter his ghost, and both struggle against a lion enemy who is scarred across one eye.

Concept art

As a cub in the conceptual stages, Simba doesn't have the golden pelt that is in his final design but rather a creamy beige pelt like Sarabi's. His paws are colorless, and his tail tuft is black, indicating that Simba would've grown a black mane as an adult as opposed to his final red mane. He has many lioness traits in early concepts, such as no whiskers, neck fur, and creamy eye shades.

However, in his earliest stages, when The Lion King was called King of the Jungle, Simba was a pure white cub.

Voice actors

Awards

Although The Lion King itself has garnered largely positive reviews from film critics, reception toward Simba has been generally mixed. The Christian Science Monitor's David Sterritt hailed Simba as "a superbly realized character," specifically praising the scene in which the character "faces discipline by his dad after his adventure with the hyenas."[1] In the category of Disney animated characters, Simba is among the most known and the most award-winning characters.

However, even though Simba was defeated by Scar in the race for the most interesting character in The Lion King,[2] he has won other awards. Ultimate Disney declared Simba as the second greatest Disney hero.

Trivia

General

Simba'sRoarConcept

Concept of Simba's roar

  • According to Mouse Under Glass, the directors themselves aren't sure how Simba grew to the size he is on just a diet of insects.[3]
  • In Kung Pow! Enter the Fist, the Chosen One is called "Simba" by Mushuu-Fasa, who is a spoof of Mufasa. The Chosen One replies, "I am not Simba."[4]

In development

  • In King of the Kalahari, Simba was a lazy and negative character who was later overthrown. His original name was Rego.[5]
  • In early versions of the film, Simba loses his tail in an attempt to escape from the hyenas after Scar takes the throne.[6]

Quotes

Simba: Listen, you think you can just show up and tell me how to live my life? You don't even know what I've been through!
Nala: I would if you'd just tell me!
—Simba argues with Nala
You said you'd always be there for me!
―Simba yells at Mufasa
This is my kingdom. If I don't fight for it, who will?
―Simba ready to take back the throne
Fire is a killer. Sometimes, what's left behind can grow better than the generation before, if given the chance.
―Simba to Kovu

Gallery

Click here to view the rest of the gallery.

Media

References


Template:T&PAppearances Template:T&PAppearances2 Template:TLGAppearances1 Template:TLGAppearances2 Template:TLGAppearances3