Disney's The Lion King Remake: Casting All 10 Major Roles

15-year old Ty Simpkins has made quite a name for himself in the blockbuster space recently, going on to star in two of the most financially successful movies of all time in Iron Man 3 and Jurassic World.

This experience will work in his favour when it comes to The Lion King; Disney will want someone competent, given that Young Simba is the character we're meant to connect with most during The Lion King's first act. Simpkins has proven he's able to cope with the pressures of appearing in a major studio tentpole, and what's more, his young age and youthful voice make him a solid pick for playing Simba as a cub.

There aren't many child actors that could hold their own against Robert Downey Jr or Chris Pratt, but this kid managed to do it with apparent ease. He also managed to come across as genuinely terrified opposite a CGI dinosaur in Jurassic World, showing that he can still act even when there's nothing to act against. Simba needs that juvenile voice to make the audience feel even more sympathy toward him when Mufasa dies, and Simpkins is one of few capable child actors who could provide just that.

Chances Of It Happening

Disney won't want to risk fluffing such an important role on a scale of this size, and when you think 'child actors,' you think Ty Simpkins. Plus, Jon Favreau produced Iron Man 3, so the two have worked together before. Simpkins is a solid bet!