When The Lion King roared onto Broadway in 1997, Julie Taymor’s visionary production redefined what musical theatre could be. Its original company helped build one of Broadway’s most iconic productions. Nearly three decades later, here’s where those groundbreaking performers are now.
Jason Raize (Simba)
Jason Raize became an overnight Broadway star as the original Simba, earning acclaim for his powerful voice and presence. After leaving the show, he pursued recording projects, voiceover work, including Denahi in another Disney project Brother Bear, and environmental advocacy with the United Nations Environment Programme. His life ended tragically in 2004, but his legacy as Simba remains a cherished part of Broadway history.
Heather Headley (Nala)
Heather Headley’s Broadway debut as Nala launched a remarkable career. She went on to win a Tony Award for Aida, release several studio albums (winning one Grammy), star on the small screen in Chicago Med and She’s Gotta Have It, and lead the West End production of The Bodyguard. Most recently she made her long awaited return to Broadway in the 2016 revival of The Color Purple and 2022 revival of Into the Woods. Today she continues to balance concert tours, acting roles, and family life while remaining one of theatre’s most celebrated vocalists.
Tsidii Le Loka (Rafiki)
Tsidii Le Loka originated Rafiki and played the role for nearly two years, earning a Tony nomination for her electrifying performance and contributing original musical material that helped shape the show’s sound. After The Lion King, she continued performing in the US and internationally, composing new works, and championing African arts education and cultural heritage. In 2018, NYC Mayor de Blasio named September 26th as Tsidii Le Loka day in honor of her work as an artist an humanitarian. Her groundbreaking portrayal remains one of the most celebrated elements of the original production.
Samuel E. Wright (Mufasa)
Already beloved as the voice of Sebastian in The Little Mermaid film, voicing “Under the Sea” and “Kiss the Girl,” Samuel E. Wright brought warmth and gravitas to Mufasa. After his Broadway run, he founded an arts academy in upstate New York. Wright passed away in 2021, leaving behind a lasting impact on generations of young performers.
John Vickery (Scar)
John Vickery originated Scar with a sophisticated, razor-sharp performance. In the years that followed, he appeared in Wicked, multiple regional productions, and television series including several Star Trek installments. He remains active in stage work and voice acting.
Christopher Jackson (Ensemble / Simba Understudy → Simba)
Christopher Jackson began in the original company as an ensemble member and Simba understudy, eventually taking over the role full-time. He went on to originate Benny in In the Heights and George Washington in Hamilton, earning a Tony nomination. Today he is a celebrated stage and screen actor and an Emmy-winning composer for television.