Disney Plans Lion King Spin-off SeriesDisney Plans Lion King Spin-off Series

Disney Television Animation has begun production on “The Lion Guard,” an animated television movie and series that will continues the story introduced 20 years ago in the Disney animated film The Lion King. 

Geared toward kids age 2 to 7, “The Lion Guard” television movie will premiere in fall 2015, with the subsequent series set to debut in early 2016 on Disney Junior and Disney Channel.

The wildlife education experts at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park will serve as consultants on “The Lion Guard” stories, which will incorporate themes of conservation, family and community while also highlighting problem-solving, creative thinking and diversity. 

The series will follow Kion, the second-born cub of Simba and Nala, as he assumes the role of leader of the Lion Guard, a group tasked with preserving the Pride Lands.

“The story of The Lion King has deeply touched families around the world since its original theatrical release 20 years ago,” says Nancy Kanter, executive vice president, original programming and general manager, Disney Junior Worldwide. “We look forward to introducing a whole new generation of kids to both the Disney legacy characters and to new friends and heroes.”