Here are the African celebrities joining Beyoncé in the upcoming 'Lion King' prequel

The upcoming Lion King prequel, "Mufasa: The Lion King," will feature an ensemble of African film stars alongside Beyoncé and her daughter Blue Ivy.

John Kani of South Africa, known for his portrayal of Rafiki in the 2019 live-action "The Lion King," will return to voice the character.

South African actor and comedian Kagiso Lediga will lend his voice to the role of the young Rafiki.

Set for a December release in theaters, the film delves into the backstory of Mufasa and his early years with his brother Scar.

Thuso Mbedu, a South African actress with roles in both African cinema and Hollywood, such as "The Woman King," is cast in the Disney production.

Folake Olowofoyeku, the Nigerian actress who stars in the Emmy-nominated sitcom "Bob Hearts Abishola," is also part of the cast.

Ugandan-British actress Sheila Atim, another "The Woman King" alum, joins the lineup for the prequel.

Thandiwe Newton, an Emmy-winning British actress with Zimbabwean heritage, will voice Eshe, the character who adopts Mufasa.