Since its release 30 years ago, the original The Lion King (1994) has captivated audiences worldwide. This iconic film has inspired sequels like The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride (1998), The Lion King 1 ½ (2004), two animated series (The Lion King’s Timon & Pumbaa and The Lion Guard), and a live-action remake in 2019.
Each installment has expanded the Pride Lands’ universe, but Mufasa: The Lion King takes a fresh approach by intertwining past and present.
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The film delves into Mufasa’s early life, revealing that he was an orphan taken in by a pride led by Taka’s (Scar’s) parents. Initially hesitant, the pride eventually accepts Mufasa, but tragedy strikes, leaving Mufasa and Taka to fend for themselves. Along the way, they meet Sarabi and her loyal scout, Zazu.
Disney fans are eager to know when Mufasa: The Lion King, the latest installment in the beloved Lion King franchise, will be available for streaming on Disney+. Released in theaters on December 20, this highly anticipated prequel-sequel explores both the origins of Mufasa and the next chapter in the Pride Lands’ saga.
Here’s what we know so far about the movie and its expected Disney+ release.
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A Potential Disney+ Release Date
With the movie hitting theaters in December, speculation is high about its streaming debut. While Disney has not confirmed an official date, historical patterns provide some clues. Based on recent releases, Disney tends to wait approximately 100 days after a theatrical premiere before moving films to Disney+. For example, Inside Out 2 premiered on Disney+ 103 days after its theatrical release, while Deadpool & Wolverine took 109 days.
Using this timeline, Mufasa: The Lion King could be expected to arrive on Disney+ around March 30, 2025. However, unforeseen factors, such as box office performance or marketing strategies, could alter this estimate.
Shifting Strategies in Streaming Releases
The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically changed how Disney approached movie releases. Titles like Mulan (2020) and Soul (2020) went directly to streaming, bypassing theaters entirely. Even after theaters reopened, Disney adopted a shorter theatrical window, sometimes releasing films on Disney+ just 45 days after their premiere.
However, as the world returned to normal, Disney extended the gap between theatrical and streaming releases, averaging closer to 100 days.
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Box Office Performance and Its Impact
Mufasa: The Lion King faced a rocky start, earning just over $100 million worldwide during its opening weekend—falling short of analysts’ expectations. Despite this, the film has crossed the $300 million mark globally, a respectable achievement but not a runaway success. Comparatively, Disney’s most successful films of 2024 enjoyed much stronger openings and critical acclaim.
Box office performance often influences streaming timelines. For example, The Marvels (2023) —a less successful title—was added to Disney+ just 89 days after its release, while Wish (2023) waited 132 days. If Mufasa continues to underperform theatrically, Disney might choose to accelerate its streaming release to boost viewership.
While the wait for an official Disney+ release date continues, fans can take comfort in the likelihood of a spring 2025 debut. Whether you’re revisiting the Pride Lands for the first time in years or introducing a new generation to the magic, Mufasa: The Lion King is sure to deliver a roaring good time.
What do you think of Mufasa: The Lion King? Do you believe it should come to Disney+ sooner rather than later? Let us know in the comments below!
