Disney Officially Retires Live-Action ‘Lion King’, Company Confirms

Two living legends from the live-action version of The Lion King will be retired.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom has long been known for its immersive safari experiences, and for the past 10 years, two lions, Dakari and Kamari, have been icons on the Kilimanjaro Safaris savanna.

These lions didn’t just capture the hearts of park visitors—they were also part of the magic behind the scenes. When The Lion King (2019) was reimagined as a live-action movie, Disney’s film team looked to Dakari and Kamari for inspiration, using their movements and presence to model the movie’s lifelike CGI lions. This connection deepened their role as beloved figures at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

After a decade of roaring atop their iconic hillside, Dakari and Kamari are preparing to retire. Their new home will be a peaceful conservation haven in Florida accredited by the AZA, allowing them to enjoy a serene environment where they can age gracefully under professional care. Their keepers and Animal Kingdom staff describe the moment as bittersweet, acknowledging the lasting impact these lions have had, both as animal ambassadors and as part of a bigger conservation story.

With Dakari and Kamari moving on, Disney is ready to introduce a fresh new pride to the Animal Kingdom savanna.

This young trio, consisting of one male and two female littermates, will spend their first few weeks backstage, adjusting to their new environment and getting to know the dedicated team of keepers. Since they’ve grown up together, guests can expect to see their strong sibling dynamic play out as they explore the savanna in the coming months.

This transition highlights Animal Kingdom’s commitment to giving guests meaningful connections with wildlife while supporting conservation efforts that extend beyond the park.

Dakari and Kamari leave a remarkable legacy, and their successors will continue to inspire awe and appreciation for African lions. Animal Kingdom visitors will soon have a chance to witness the bonds and playful interactions of this new pride, adding yet another unforgettable chapter to the Kilimanjaro Safaris story. Stay tuned for the debut of these young lions, who are set to bring renewed energy and curiosity to the savanna​