Disney’s landmark musical The Lion King has announced that Posi Morakinyo and Asha Parker-Wallace will take over the leading roles of Simba and Nala this spring.
The pair are set to join the production at the West End’s Lyceum Theatre in London on 5 May 2026. The casting marks a swift reunion for the two actors, who have just concluded starring in American Psycho at the Almeida Theatre.
Book tickets for Disney’s The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre
Posi and Asha as Simba and Nala
Posi Morakinyo’s recent credits include the Olivier-winning For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy in the West End, and the RSC’s Much Ado About Nothing. He commented:
“It’s an honour to be taking on the role of Simba. I’m excited to start this new adventure and be a part of this iconic show, sharing the stage with Asha once again.”
Asha Parker-Wallace recently appeared in the world premiere of Burlesque The Musical at the Savoy Theatre, and Starter for Ten at Bristol Old Vic and Birmingham Rep. She added:
“It’s been so much fun working with Posi over the past few months. Now, playing the iconic roles of Simba and Nala together at the Lyceum Theatre is a dream.”
Posi and Asha take over from current stars Stephenson Ardern-Sodje as Simba and Merryl Ansah as Nala.
To celebrate the announcement, Disney collaborated with acclaimed photographer Perou to release a new collection of images featuring the pair at iconic locations across London.
Disney’s The Lion King – New stars announced. Asha Parker Wallace and Posi Morakinyo. Photo by Perou
A new Lion King cast
Other new starters in The Lion King company include Stuart Neal as Timon, Michael Jeremiah as Banzai and Simone Robinson as Sarabi.
Joining the ensemble are Raul Reinoso, Steve Cornwall, Gabrielle de Souza, Lindokuhle Thabede, Marcellus Whyte and Shayna McPherson.
The new cast join a company that also includes George Asprey as Scar, Pierre van Heerden as Pumbaa, Thenjiwe Nofemele as Rafiki, Shaun Escoffery as Mufasa, Gary Jordan as Zazu, Sadia McEwen as Shenzi, and Mark Tatham as Ed.
Video: Meet the new cast
27 Years of the Circle of Life
Now in its 27th year in London, The Lion King remains one of the West End’s most successful productions.
Directed by Julie Taymor, the musical features the iconic score by Elton John and Tim Rice, including “The Circle of Life,” “Shadowland,” and the Academy Award-winning “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.”
The production has recently extended its run and is now booking at the Lyceum Theatre until 30 May 2027.
View live availability for The Lion King in London
Plan Your Visit
- Theatre: Lyceum Theatre, London
- New Cast Starts: 5 May 2026
- Booking Until: 13 December 2026
- Running Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including interval)
Lyceum Theatre, London
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