Disney’s The Lion King is one of the most iconic movies of all time and is a film that will continue to be popular for years to come. The story is simply a timeless classic with some tremendous heroes, a detestable villain, classic songs and some really bright and vibrant animation throughout.
Of course, it is the specific characters and their energetic personalities that really take this movie to the next level though. There’s somebody for everyone to connect with throughout this film. But when it comes to likability, which of these fantastic animal characters take the top spot due to their personalities and actions throughout the course of the movie?
Scar
The likable character in the vast majority of Disney movies tends to be the villain, and in The Lion King, that is no different. Scar might be quite an intelligent character, but he doesn’t put those brains to good use as he struggles with his extreme jealousy of his brother.
His plot to kill Mufasa is one of the darkest and scariest moments in Disney history, and that instantly makes him very unlikable in the eyes of most people. Sure, he might come out with some witty quotes, but his heart is full of hate and that makes him very unlikable.
The Hyenas
The three Hyenas really do come as a package deal, and while they all have slightly different personalities, mainly due to their differing intelligence levels, they do have similar goals and behaviors. All of them happily follow Scar along and do his dirty work, which instantly makes them unlikable.
They don’t treat others well, such as how they look to pick off a young Simba and Nala. However, they do provide a few moments of comedy, especially due to their bickering, which makes them a little more likable than their leader, Scar.
Sarabi
Sarabi isn’t involved in The Lion King too much, but the mother of Simba certainly has her role to play. Her individual personality isn’t showcased as much as other characters on this list, but she is certainly a well-respected character and that makes it clear she has high likability.
Sarabi is certainly caring and that is shown through her love of Simba, with her motherly instinct absolutely making her very likable. She also gives out great advice, always supporting her partner in his decisions.
Zazu
Zazu is character that can come across as a little bit annoying at times, but that is simply down to the fact that he is such a stickler for the rules. Zazu is Mumfasa’s right-hand man (or, bird, in this case,) and he proves himself to be unbelievably loyal to the family.
He provides the morning report every day and certainly does his best job, which is a respectable trait. Zazu can also be quite funny as well with his dry sense of humor, having some fun comments throughout the movie.
Rafiki
Rafiki is quite a strange character as he is a fairly mysterious character in comparison to the others. However, that element of curiosity certainly makes Rafiki a very interesting character and there’s no doubt that he is very wise as well.
Rafiki’s behavior is unpredictable, but that makes him very funny to watch whenever he appears and makes him a likable character. He clearly has a trust and connection with other animals and that is something that showcases his character.
Timon
Timon is arguably the funniest character within The Lion King, bringing tons of hilarious moments to the film which really makes him an enjoyable character to watch. This is why he’s so likable, as Timon just has fantastic energy that he brings throughout.
Timon isn’t a perfect character, as he often doesn’t give Pumba the credit that he deserves, overlooking his opinions and then taking them as his own. However, he is very caring towards his friends and that is something that makes him very popular as one of Disney’s best-ever sidekicks.
Pumba
While he might spend all of his time with Timon, Pumba does actually just edge him in-terms of likability. Both of them have tons of energy and are clearly a lot of fun to be around, as they add a lot to the movie. However, Pumba is a little more thoughtful with the things he says and does.
While Timon often doesn’t listen to Pumba, he never turns around and argues about that and Pumba shows that he is just happy to be around as a good friend. That’s something that audiences love, plus, he is an incredibly funny character as well.
Nala
Nala is much like Simba in this film, showcasing fun energy and excitement when she’s young, while quickly growing up and maturing. She learns to fight for what she believes in and her passion for that is something that shines throughout The Lion King.
Nala is happy to question anything, as Simba quickly learns and that’s what makes her such a compelling and likable character. For while she’s happy to have fun and mess around, she also knows how to get down to business.
Mufasa
Mufasa plays a huge role within this Disney movie despite the fact he dies fairly early on. His lasting impact is felt throughout the film and that’s a testament to how great the character is. He’s a true leader and someone who is willing to do anything for his son.
He might be a little harsh on Simba at points, but he is only doing so to provide a clear life lesson to his young son. Mufasa’s advice is crucial throughout the entire movie and his strong moral compass and kind heart is what makes him so likable.
Simba
Whether he’s an energetic and curious young lion or the eventual king on Pride Rock, Simba is the most likable character within The Lion King. He’s the lead role and he’s just impossible not to love. As a young character, Simba is just so cute and curious, always wanting to be brave like his father which makes him likable.
He then becomes very sympathetic due to his father’s death, going on to develop a more relaxed lifestyle with Timon and Pumba. However, his fighting spirit to be a leader of Pride Rock is something else that audiences find admirable, which makes him very likable.
