Broadway Royalty: Austin Elle Fisher and Jacob Pham join “mane” of Lion King cast

The new incoming principal actors for the Lion King have been announced to a roar of applause. Austin Elle Fisher and Jacob Pham are stepping into the roles of Young Nala and Young Simba from August 20, 2024 at the Minskoff Theatre.

Big paws to fill

Fisher will succeed Nia Thompson while Pham takes over from Ezekiel Kekuna, both of whom exited the production on August 18, 2024. Fisher and Pham are currently alternating in their roles with incumbent cast members, Annika Reese Franklin and Albert Rhodes Jr. 

The Cast of Pride Rock

The Lion King is Pham’s Broadway debut, having been a swing in the 2023 production of A Christmas Story. The Bay area actor iis best known for their role in Sesame Street. 

Fisher was in Mrs. Doubtfire (2022) as Natalie Hillard. She also played Marta von Trapp in The Sound of Music the same year. She’s well-known for her film and television roles, notably appearing in Atlanta.

A Role to Remember

Nia Thompson and Ezekiel Kekuna have been instrumental in The Lion King’s continued success. Fisher and Pham are set to excel in their roles, (hopefully!) for a long time to come. 

The 1994 film was adapted into the third-longest-running-show in Broadway history, opening on Broadway on November 13, 1997. Since taking the scene by storm, the musical has won over six Tony awards, under the direction of Andrew Flatt, Anne Quart and Thomas Schumacher.

Don’t miss the chance to see Austin Elle Fisher and Jacob Pham’s electric debut at the Minskoff Theatre from August 20, 2024!