The pop superstar will voice Nala in the upcoming film, which is set for release in 2019
Beyoncé is reportedly working with Elton John on new versions of classic Lion King songs for the forthcoming remake of the Disney film.
The cast for the remake was formally announced earlier this month, with Beyoncé starring opposite Donald Glover in the roles of Nala and Simba respectively.
With production on the film now underway, a new report has claimed that Beyoncé is currently working with John to refine new versions of classic Lion King songs for the upcoming remake.
The New York Daily News has reported that the ‘Lemonade’ artist is collaborating with John in the studio on such tracks as ‘Circle of Life’ and ‘Can You Feel the Love Tonight’. John and Hans Zimmer contributed extensively to the soundtrack of the original 1994 film, with the former reportedly signing a deal with Disney which permits him to reimagine his original songs for the new version of The Lion King.
“The songs will be thread into the storyline,” a source told the Daily News. “It is unthinkable when you have Beyoncé involved not to have her sing some of those iconic hits — and that means huge sales to a new generation. The deal is a huge one and will earn [Elton John] millions at many stages. Obviously, will get a one off licensing deal followed by a cut in royalties from all aspects of the work.”
The A-list cast for the remake also includes original Lion King voice actor James Earl Jones (who will reprise his role as Mufasa), Chiwetel Ejiofor (Scar) and John Oliver (Zazu).
Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner will play Pumbaa and Timon respectively, while Alfre Woodard (Sarabi), Eric Andre (Azizi) and Florence Kasumba (Shenzi) will also star. The film is scheduled for a July 2019 release, with the new project being made along the same creative lines as the recent remake of The Jungle Book.
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