In honor of the 30th anniversary of Disney’s The Lion King, the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, California hosted a live-to-film concert event that incorporated the original film’s old cast and new cast members. On May 24 and 25, concert-goers were able to attend and watch the immersive event that incorporated the original voice singer for young Simba, Jason Weaver. Along with the original voice actors of the 1994 film were voice actors from the 2019 live-action film. This star-studded cast not only performed at the 30th anniversary’s live-to-film two-day event but included two special guests: Jennifer Hudson and North West. After North’s performance of “I Just Can’t Wait to be King” as young Simba, people were left confused and disappointed; it was clear that North’s voice isn’t vocally trained to cover such a difficult song. Her performance has sparked online debate about whether North used nepotism to get the role of Simba over other young auditionees.
North West and Nepotism
Nepotism is the practice of using one’s family name as leverage for access to professional opportunities. Nepotism is not uncommon in Hollywood; Zoe Kravitz‘s parents are award-winning musician Lenny Kravitz and The Cosby Show‘s Lisa Bonet. Another “nepobaby” (a common term used to describe a child of nepotism) is Kate Hudson, the daughter of The Hudson Brothers‘ singer Bill Hudson and actress Goldie Hawn. Netflix’s most streamed TV show Stranger Things stars Maya Hawke, daughter of actor Ethan Hawke and actress Uma Thurman.
Much like the previous stars listed, North West is the daughter of Grammy award-winning rapper Kanye West and successful reality-tv show star and CEO of Skims shapewear, Kim Kardashian.
“I Just Can’t Wait to be King” Performance by North West
Videos of North’s performance of “I Just Can’t Wait to be King” quickly went viral and sparked the debate of whether she fairly received the role of Young Simba in the Hollywood Bowl’s concert.
Public Reaction After North West Performance
Most comments across social media consisted of negative feedback with speculation that North’s nepotism played a part in getting the role as Simba. Rumors have spread across TikTok that Kim Kardashian paid the casting directors and executives involved with the live production of Lion King, meaning North West didn’t receive the role fairly.
Others came to North’s defense, emphasizing her age.
Although North West is considered a nepobaby, and likely used that as leverage in receiving the role of young Simba, she’s also still a child. A child who, like many others, has dreams and goals of becoming a performing artist and does not deserve the heavy amount of backlash she’s received.
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