Mufasa’s Odds for Best Original Song at the Oscars Impacted by Controversial Decision

The prospects for Mufasa: The Lion King at the upcoming Oscars are currently facing challenges, particularly due to its nomination outcomes in a key category. As a unique installment that acts as both a prequel and a sequel to the beloved original, this Disney live-action film focuses on the life of Mufasa, Simba’s father, prior to his ascension to the throne of Pride Rock. Under the direction of Barry Jenkins, the narrative delves into Mufasa’s lineage and highlights his struggles with loss and betrayal during his journey to royalty.

Despite drawing mixed reactions similar to the 2019 version of The Lion King, Mufasa: The Lion King has been recognized as a step forward from its predecessor. Financially, the film has proven successful, raking in over $200 million and setting impressive box-office records. Currently, it finds itself on the shortlist for the 2025 Academy Awards in two categories: Best Visual Effects and Best Original Song. This has fueled optimism for potential Oscar success, although recent shortlist results have sparked concerns about its chances of winning.

“Tell Me It’s You”as Mufasa’s Sole Best Original Song Contender

The Only Song From Mufasa Shortlisted for Best Original Song

Eshe and cubs from Mufasa: The Lion King

The outlook for winning the Oscar for Best Original Song appears bleak for Mufasa: The Lion King. The film features a collection of new compositions by the renowned Lin-Manuel Miranda, acclaimed for his work on hits such as Moana and Hamilton. Among these is “Tell Me It’s You”, performed by Aaron Pierre (Mufasa) and Tiffany Boone (Sarabi), which captures the burgeoning romance between Mufasa and Sarabi as it unfolds following her realization of Mufasa’s role in saving her life. This track serves as Mufasa’s love anthem, drawing comparisons to the iconic “Can You Feel The Love Tonight”from the original film.

Watch “Tell Me It’s You”on YouTube

While the soundtrack for Mufasa has been praised for its fidelity to the tone of the original Lion King, offering a contemporary twist, expectations were high for the film’s music to garner similar Oscar acclaim as its predecessor, which secured three nominations in 1995. Unfortunately, “Tell Me It’s You”stands alone on the shortlist, marking a significant decrease in potential recognition for the soundtrack as a whole.

“I Always Wanted A Brother”– Considered a Stronger Oscar Contender for Mufasa

The Song Did Not Make the Shortlist for Best Original Song

Mufasa, Sarabi, and Rafiki in awe — Image via Disney

The emotional core of Mufasa: The Lion King revolves around the relationship between Mufasa and Taka—who would later take on the name Scar. The song “I Always Wanted A Brother”poignantly expresses Taka’s aspirations and his plea for Mufasa’s support during his reign, reinforcing their emotional interdependence. This is showcased through a montage of their childhood in the Pride Lands, which enriches the depth of their bond.

Academy Award Shortlist for Best Original Song
Award	Song	Movie
Academy Award for Best Original Song	Winter Coat	Blitz
Compress/Repress	Challengers
Never Too Late	Elton John: Never Too Late
The Evil	Emilia Perez
My Way	Emilia Perez
Sick In The Head	Kneecap
Beyond	Ocean 2
Tell Me It’s You	Mufasa: The Lion King
Piece by Piece	Piece by Piece
Like A Bird	Sing Sing
The Journey	The Six Triple Eight
Out Of Oklahoma	Twisters
Kiss The Sky	The Wild Robot
Harper and Will Go West	Will & Harper

“I Always Wanted A Brother”was initially believed to be a strong candidate for an Oscar nomination, noted for its catchy rhythm and poignant lyrics that pay tribute to the original film. However, it failed to make the Oscars shortlist for Best Original Song, disappointing many who were eager to see it recognized. This song had also missed out on a nomination from the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, according to reports from Gold Derby.

Implications of Mufasa’s Shortlist Selection for the 2025 Oscars

Reduced Likelihood of Winning the Oscar

The competition for the Best Original Song category is fierce, significantly impacting Mufasa: The Lion King’s chance to secure the award. “Tell Me It’s You”is competing against entries like “El Mal”and “Mi Camino”by Emilia Pérez, both of which are predicted to perform strongly in the Oscars race. The presence of two of Emilia Pérez’s compositions increases her advantage over Mufasa’s chances. Additionally, another Disney song, “Never Too Late,”from Elton John’s film, is seen as a leading contender within the category, as reported by Variety.

That said, “Tell Me It’s You”should not be discounted entirely. Its inclusion on the shortlist raises the possibility of Lin-Manuel Miranda receiving his third Oscar nomination in a short span of seven years. Previously, Miranda was nominated for “How Far I’ll Go”(from Moana) and “Dos Oruguitas”(from Encanto). Winning an Oscar for “Tell Me It’s You”would crown Miranda with EGOT status, elevating his prestigious career even further as noted by Hollywood Reporter. The final nominations will be unveiled in January, leaving room for speculation about the potential for Mufasa: The Lion King to secure an Oscar nod for Best Original Song.

Sources:
Oscars,
Gold Derby,
Variety,
Hollywood Reporter

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