North West, the 10-year-old daughter of Ye (formerly Kanye West) and Kim Kardashian, has received a standing ovation after her portrayal of a young Simba during a live production of The Lion King.
This weekend, North took the stage at the famed Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles to perform “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” as part of the celebration for the animated film’s upcoming 30th anniversary. The event was a star-studded affair, featuring Broadway star Heather Headley, Grammy-winning Lebo M, and franchise originals such as Billy Eichner, Bradley Gibson, Ernie Sabella, Jason Weaver, Jeremy Irons, and Nathan Lane. Special guest Jennifer Hudson also made an appearance.
The two-night Lion King concert event was not only a celebration of the film’s legacy but also an opportunity to capture the magic for a Disney+ original special, set to debut at a later date, according to Billboard.
@sophiaavachang I had so much fun watching North West performing "I Just Can't Wait To King" at Lion King at the Hollywood Bowl #fyp #disney #simba #northwest #lionking #hollywoodbowl ♬ original sound – Sophia Chang 💕
In the audience, cheering on North, were her famous parents, siblings Saint, Chicago, and Psalm, grandmother Kris Jenner, and aunt Kourtney Kardashian with uncle Travis Barker. The support from her family was palpable as they watched North bring young Simba to life.
Despite the applause and praise, North’s performance wasn’t without its critics. Some took to social media to express their views on nepotism. One person commented, “Imagine the talented kids that were supposed to have that role. Nepotism at its best.” Another added, “If Kanye and Kim weren’t her parents, the part would have gone to someone who deserved it.” A third critic remarked, “STUNNING, really?? I have no doubt there were other very talented kids that should have had that part!!!!”
However, many others rallied behind North, offering words of encouragement and praise. “She did soo good,” one fan wrote. Another commented, “Aww, this is actually so cute! North’s got the confidence. Love it!” A third supporter added, “This girl has confidence and that’s all that matters. Her voice sounds so cute to me, like a child’s should ❤️❤️ Go Northie.”
North has been open about her passion for performing, sharing with i-D magazine in October 2023 that “performing is my favorite.” When asked about her future aspirations, she said, “a rapper, a basketball player, and I’m going to make artwork that I sell.”
North made her music debut in 2015 with a cameo in her father Kanye’s “Only One” video. In March, she teased her upcoming debut album, “Elementary School Dropout,” though a release date has yet to be announced.
With her latest performance, North West continues to showcase her talents and make a name for herself, earning both admiration and critique along the way.