North West’s ‘Lion King’ concert performance sparks casting backlash

(USA Today) – North West recently took the stage for a performance in a “Lion King” anniversary concert, but the internet isn’t roaring with applause.

The young media personality, daughter of Kim Kardashian and Ye (formerly Kanye West), made her Hollywood Bowl debut on Friday and Saturday with her performance as Simba in “Disney’s The Lion King 30th Anniversary – A Live-to-Film Concert Event,” which featured live performances of the film’s songs from cast members of the 1994 original, 2019 remake and Broadway musical.

After being introduced by Jason Weaver, who sang as Simba in 1994’s “The Lion King,” West delivered a spirited performance of “I Just Can’t Wait to be King.” The 10-year-old, decked out in a Simba-inspired zip-up hoodie and fuzzy headpiece by ERL, excitedly sang and danced surrounded by animal dancers, according to footage of the performance shared online.

The star-studded concert lineup also featured performances by Weaver, Billy Eichner, Jeremy Irons, Nathan Lane, Heather Headley and Jennifer Hudson.

On social media, West’s performance drew criticism, with some alleging that the young Kardashian was cast due to the celebrity status of her parents.