North West's performance as Simba in 'The Lion King' concert sparks 'nepotism' backlash
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.
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North West's casting in 'Lion King' concert criticized on social media
Critics on social media blasted West's casting in the "Lion King" concert as an instance of nepotism in the entertainment industry.
"North West would probably be great as the lead in a high school production of 'The Lion King' but for a 30th anniversary concert it's a bit embarrassing," X user @NomadicalKing wrote. "The nepotism was clear, and you could see and hear the lack of rehearsal. Shame on the parents… this was more for them than her."
North West would probably be great as the lead in a high school production of The Lion King but for a 30th Anniversary Concert it’s a bit embarrassing.
The nepotism was clear and you could see and hear the lack of rehearsal. Shame on the parents… this was more for them than…— Loading… (@NomadicalKing) May 27, 2024
"The whole North West/Lion King situation just reminds me of the real world (and) how interviews for a job/opportunity can go," @TsukiiLyte wrote on X. "It’s never WHAT you can do or how perfect you think you’re qualified but rather WHO you know. We’ve all seen it. This is no different."
The whole North West/Lion King situation just reminds me of the real world & how interviews for a job/opportunity can go. It’s never WHAT you can do or how perfect you think you’re qualified but rather WHO you know. We’ve all seen it.. this is no different.
— Lexi ☁️ (@TsukiiLyte) May 28, 2024
One X user said West's casting "ruined (the) integrity" of the Disney classic.
"Hundreds of talented kids…worked to get opportunities like this," the user wrote, such as "kids playing Simba/Nala in 'The Lion King' on Broadway (who) left NO CRUMBS, but instead, they went (with) nepotism."
"I’m all for nepo babies getting opportunities," X user @littlemsfancy_ wrote. "But a hardworking theater kid deserved that role. She even wore a hoodie (and) slippers. 😒"
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'Lion King' star Jason Weaver praises North West
In an Instagram post Saturday, Weaver said it was "an honor" to perform alongside West, a "young superstar in the making."
"I’m so PROUD you, North!! You’re doing a such PHENOMENAL job in this show!" Weaver wrote alongside a photo of the two. "I can’t wait for people to see your performance of ‘I Just Can’t Wait To Be King’ when ‘The Lion King 30th Anniversary Celebration’ eventually starts streaming on @disneyplus!!"
He added: "You’re a true professional, and I wish you nothing but the best as you continue your journey towards GREATNESS!!"
Contributing: Brendan Morrow, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: North West performs in 'Lion King' concert, sparks casting backlash
