Disney Television Animation has begun production on The Lion Guard it has been announced.
The animated television movie continues the story of The Lion King which was introduced to audiences 20 years ago. The Lion Guard is aimed at children age 2-7 and their families.
The wildlife education experts at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park will serve as consultants on The Lion Guard stories which will explore the themes of conservation, family and community.
Nancy Kanter, Executive Vice President, Original Programming and General Manager, Disney Junior Worldwide, said, “The story of ‘The Lion King’ has deeply touched families around the world since its original theatrical release 20 years ago. We look forward to introducing a whole new generation of kids to both the Disney legacy characters and to new friends and heroes.”
The Lion Guard follows the story of Kion, the secon-born hub of Simba and Nala. He assumes the role of leader of the Lion Guard, a group of the bravest and brightest tasked with preserving the Pride Lands. Instead of assembling a team of young lions to serve with him, Kion challenges tradition by calling upon friends he believes are the best choices – Bunga, a fearless honey badger; Fuli, a confident cheetah; Beshte, a happy-go-lucky hippo; and Ono, an intellectual egret. Stories will include special appearances by Mufasa, Timon, Pumbaa, Rafiki, Zazu and Kion’s older sister, Kiara, the future Queen of the Pride Lands.
The Lion Guard television movie and the subsequent series will debut in 2016 on Disney Junior and Disney Channel.
