It’s official: Beyoncé has landed the role of Nala in the upcoming remake of The Lion King.
Disney confirmed the news Wednesday after it shared a poster of the cast on Twitter.
Fans have speculated about Beyoncé’s involvement for months. Back in March, it was reported that the film’s director, Jon Favreau, was looking to the 36-year-old singer for the role of Nala—the best friend-turned-love interest of Simba. Sources told Variety the studio was willing to do what ever it took to accommodate Beyoncé’s schedule, as she was pregnant with twins when she received the initial offer.
The Lion King will mark the singer’s first major movie role since the 2013 animated film Epic. She has also starred in the 2009 thriller Obsession, the 2006 musical Dreamgirls, and the 2002 comedy Austin Powers in Goldmember.
Beyoncé will join some of Hollywood’s biggest names, including Donald Glover (Simba), James Earl Jones (Mufasa), Chiwetel Ejiofor (Scar), Seth Rogen (Pumbaa), and Billy Eichner (Timon).
The Lion King is expected to hit theaters July 19, 2019.
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