The Lion King is nearing its theatrical release date and has already drawn its first reactions and reviews from critics. The prequel movie covers the origin story of Mufasa, Simba’s father and one of the most iconic kings in Pride Rock’s history.

In the new Lion King prequel, director Barry Jenkins paid tribute to James Earl Jones during the opening credits. The late performer voiced the role in the original 1994 animated film and the 2019 remake.

The Lion King” begins with the voice of James Earl Jones, followed by a title card that reads, “In Remembrance.” Jones, who died in September at 93 years old, originated the voice of King Mufasa in the 1994 Oscar-winning animated feature "The Lion King,

The Lion King will feature a tribute to the late James Earl Jones, according to director Barry Jenkins. What type of tribute will Mufasa: The Lion King have? Speaking to Variety, Jenkins revealed that the upcoming movie will pay homage to Jones in the film’s opening credits.

Mufasa: The Lion King' is in theaters Dec. 20, just over three months after original Mufasa voice actor James Earl Jones died at 93