Lion King: John Kani stars as Rafiki next to all-star cast

The world first paid real close attention to John Kani when he played T'Chaka, the son of T'Challa on Captain America: Civil War. This time around, he will take on the role of the legendary Rafiki in the upcoming Lion King live-action remake.

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Kani is the original Black Panther who passes on these celestial powers to his son, played by Chadwick Bosman.

He has found his place in the long-term project that will continue to amaze us with their incredible roll-outs.

Read Watch: The first trailer for the Lion King's' live-action remake is here

Who is John Kani? To ask this question as a South African is just flat-out disrespectful, in all honesty. Kani has been involved in South Africa's film industry for decades.

Kani, born in New Brighton, Eastern Cape, is a 75-year-old jack of all trades. He has written books, plays and even played a number of directorial roles.

His world-renowned performances came when he appeared in Marvel's MCU.

Read A local legend: Five facts about iconic actor John Kani

Actors starring in Lion King Judging by Kani's accolades and his recent Hollywood success, it comes as no surprise that he has been called up to lead the line in an all-star cast of the Lion King remake.

This groundbreaking story will take place in the African Serengeti and the Kruger National Park.

Kani will provide the comedic relief that Rafiki brings to the storyline. He will play alongside megastars such as Beyonc , who plays the role of Nala and Chiwetel Ejiofor, who stars as Scar the antagonist in the film.

Read How John Kani influenced the makers of The Black Panther to adopt isiXhosa as Wakanda's language

Other key stars who will appear in the film are:

Seth Rogen as Pumbaa

Donald Glover as Simba

Keegan-Michael Key as Kamari

James Earl Jones as Mufasa

Billy Eichner as Timon

Alfre Woodard as Sabari

Eric Andre as Azizi

Florence Kasumba as Shenzi

John Oliver as Zazu

JD McCrary as Young Simba

Shahadi Wright Joseph as Young Nala

We, as the rest of the world is, very much looking forward to this spectacular movie.

Tags: EntertainmentMoviesSouth Africa

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