The Lion King is returning to the big screen, but this time in a live-action take, coming to theaters in 2019. On November 1, the cast for this new film was announced, and the reaction on social media was enormous.

With musical icons like Beyonce and Donald Glover, and famous actors like Billy Eichner and Seth Rogen joining the Disney classic cast, many are anticipating an impressive outcome.

“Honestly it [the cast] could not be more amazing. I do like the choices; most picks are relevant and notable. I think they will do a good job,” senior Megan Spasenoski said.

This is not the first of the Disney classic reboots, others include “Cinderella”, “The Jungle Book” and “Beauty and the Beast,” all which broke the box offices and set records from their success. Jon Favreau is directing this film after his success with his remake of “The Jungle Book.”

“I think they [the cast] are great choices; these people are really good actors, and I feel like they will do great making the remake epic,” senior Grace Rhymes said.

James Earl Jones is joining the cast and is reprising his role as “Mufasa,” Simba’s father. Jones was apart of the original voice-over in 1994, and his return to the Disney film was highly anticipated according to The Hollywood Report.

“[I am most excited about] Shahadi, she is a good actor and I think this is going to help her career and I’ll be able to see her in more movies,” Rhymes said.  

Shahadi Wright Joseph will be portraying the role of “Young Nala” in the remake, her first ever voice over role in a film.

“I feel obligated to say I am most excited for Beyonce, but honestly I love John Oliver so much- I am most excited about him,” said Spasenoski.

Oliver will be portraying the role of “Zazu.”

The Lion King will be released July 19, 2019. To stay updated on cast updates, trailers, and more about the film check out www.imdb.com.