The Lion King Movies: Animated Timeline

1994 - 20043 Films4h 7m4.2 Average

The original animated continuity of The Lion King follows Simba's story across multiple generations, from his own coming-of-age journey to his children's adventures.

This timeline includes The Lion King 1½, which runs concurrently with the original film but from Timon and Pumbaa's perspective, adding comedic depth and backstory to fan-favorite supporting characters. Simba's Pride continues the legacy with the next generation, focusing on Simba's daughter Kiara and themes of unity and acceptance.

There are 2 other watch orders available – see the links up above.

1
The Lion King poster

The Lion King

19941h 29m5
Director: Roger Allers
Cast: Matthew Broderick, Moira Kelly, Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella, James Earl Jones

Young lion prince Simba must overcome tragedy and his own fears to reclaim his rightful place as king of the Pride Lands from his villainous uncle Scar.

FamilyAnimationDramaFantasyAdventure
2
The Lion King 1½ poster

The Lion King 1½

20041h 17m3.7
Director: Bradley Raymond
Cast: Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella, Julie Kavner, Jerry Stiller, Matthew Broderick

This prequel follows Timon the meerkat and Pumbaa the warthog as they search for the perfect home and eventually help raise young Simba, retelling the original Lion King story from their perspective.

FamilyAnimationComedyAction
3
The Lion King II: Simba's Pride poster

The Lion King II: Simba's Pride

19981h 21m4
Director: Darrell Rooney
Cast: Matthew Broderick, Neve Campbell, Jason Marsden, Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella

Simba's daughter Kiara, a rebellious young lioness, falls for Kovu, the son of an exiled lioness from a rival pride. Their forbidden romance threatens to reignite an ancient feud between the two lion prides.

FamilyAdventureAnimationAction