Credit: DisneyThe 2019 live-action The Lion King brought a groundbreaking retelling of Disney’s animated classic to audiences worldwide.
Known for its visually stunning CGI, this adaptation strove for an unprecedented level of realism in depicting the animal kingdom. The production team, led by director Jon Favreau, sought inspiration from real African lions to capture their movements and personalities authentically.
To achieve this, they turned to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where two lions, Dakari and Kamari, became essential figures. Crews observed and filmed these lions, later using the footage to create the photorealistic lions seen on screen. Dakari and Kamari became unofficial stars of The Lion King (2019), embodying the majesty and charisma of African lions and helping to bring Simba, Mufasa, and others to life.
Now, after a decade at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Dakari and Kamari are entering a new chapter. Disney recently announced that the pair will retire to a conservation haven in Florida, accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
This move comes after years of careful consideration focused on their health and well-being, ensuring they transition to a sanctuary where they can live out their years in a serene environment. African lions like Dakari and Kamari have lifespans that average around 10-14 years in the wild, though in protected settings like zoos and conservation havens, they can live into their early 20s.
With this transition, Disney acknowledges the deep impact these lions have had not only on guests but also on animal care professionals and conservation enthusiasts.
Dakari and Kamari’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Animal Kingdom savanna. For years, they were seen atop the highest point on Kilimanjaro Safaris, often commanding attention with their roars and regal presence.
Their departure is undoubtedly emotional for Disney’s Animal Kingdom staff, particularly those involved in their daily care. Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Animals, Science, and Environment at Disney Parks, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the duo’s contributions, noting how they served as ambassadors for African lions worldwide and helped highlight the importance of lion conservation.
Beyond entertaining park guests, Dakari and Kamari played a crucial role in educating visitors on the threats facing lions in the wild, bridging the gap between admiration and awareness.
In preparation for their departure, Disney is welcoming a new pride of young lions to Animal Kingdom. This incoming pride, which consists of three littermates—one male and two females—will undergo an acclimation period to settle into their new environment.
As these lions adjust, they’ll spend time backstage, building relationships with their keepers and familiarizing themselves with the surroundings. Given their sibling bond, it’s expected that their natural dynamic will be on display when they eventually roam the Kilimanjaro Safaris savanna.
The arrival of this new pride symbolizes the continuation of Animal Kingdom’s commitment to educating visitors about wildlife conservation.
While guests will miss Dakari and Kamari, they can look forward to observing the playful interactions and behaviors of the young lions, who are poised to carry on the legacy of inspiring and educating future generations. With this transition, Disney ensures that the story of African lions—and the message of conservation they embody—remains central to the Animal Kingdom experience.