Order of The Lion King Movies: A Complete Viewing Guide

The iconic The Lion King, released in 1994, has evolved into a vast franchise that includes a multitude of animated and live-action films. While the beloved animated classic remains the most recognized title, many fans might not be fully aware of the extensive roster of films within The Lion King universe. This guide presents a comprehensive list of every installment in The Lion King franchise, including their narrative continuity and the proper viewing order.

Coming soon in 2024, Mufasa: The Lion King will expand this celebrated franchise by exploring the early lives of Mufasa and Scar, offering a fresh perspective not previously showcased. This live-action prequel to the 2019 adaptation has ignited renewed interest among fans, prompting them to explore the wealth of content available beyond the original narrative. The franchise now spans across live-action adaptations, direct-to-DVD sequels, and numerous television specials.

The Lion King Movies In Release Order

From 1994 To 2024

The conclusion of the original 1994 film introduces Simba and Nala’s new child, which sets the stage for a series of sequels and spin-offs. The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride follows the adventures of their daughter, Kiara, as she falls in love with Kovu, an outsider lion. Additionally, The Lion King 1½ acts as a midquel, spotlighting Timon and Pumbaa’s escapades during the events of the original film. All of these narratives eventually lead to the television series, The Lion Guard, which has birthed three movies.

Movie	Release Year
The Lion King	1994
The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride	1998
The Lion King 1½	2004
The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar	2015
The Lion Guard: The Rise of Scar	2017
The Lion King	2019
The Lion Guard: Battle for the Pride Lands	2019
Mufasa: The Lion King	2024

The Animated Lion King Movies In Chronological Order

The Lion King (1994)

When watching the Lion King series, the logical starting point is the original 1994 film. The narrative opens with a young Simba, detailing his childhood until the tragic moment when Scar takes Mufasa’s life, prompting Simba to flee the Pride Lands. Following a time jump, Simba, now grown, returns to reclaim his home and family, culminating in Kiara’s birth.

The Lion King 1½ (2004)

Unlike traditional sequels, The Lion King 1½ is structured as a midquel; it navigates various points along the timeline of the original. The storyline primarily follows Timon and Pumbaa during the events of the first film while also delving into Timon’s backstory, positioning it as a unique comedic interpretation of the beloved saga.

The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride (1998)

As the first official sequel, The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride is positioned third in the chronological timeline. The plot spans years, detailing the lives of Kiara and Kovu from cubs to adulthood, which bridges narratives between the original film and The Lion Guard series.

The Lion Guard: Return Of The Roar (2015)

Serving as both a television movie and the launchpad for the series, The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar takes place during the timeline of The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride, post Kiara and Kovu’s initial meeting, although it occurs before their adult lives. The latter parts of The Lion Guard’s episodes extend beyond this timeline.

The Lion Guard: The Rise Of Scar (2017)

Set during the second season of The Lion Guard, this installment chronicles events following The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar, featuring flashbacks that delve into Scar’s origins, providing further context within the established timeline.

The Lion Guard: Battle For The Pride Lands (2019)

Kicking off the third season of The Lion Guard, this film continues the existing narrative while intertwining events from The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride.

The “Live-Action”Lion King Movies In Chronological Order

Mufasa: The Lion King (2024)

Among the live-action films, Mufasa: The Lion King serves as a preface to the 2019 adaptation, detailing the intricate backstory of Mufasa and Scar before Simba’s arrival, featuring both characters at various life stages.

The Lion King (2019)

Which Order To Watch The Lion King Movies In

Release Or Chronological Order?

When it comes to deciding the best viewing sequence for The Lion King, release order is the recommended approach. Although watching in chronological order can be entertaining, the overlapping timelines and substantial time shifts can create confusion. The aligned nature of the release and chronological orders means that following the release sequence offers the most coherent viewing experience.

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