North West recently took to the stage at The Lion King anniversary concert, but the internet didn't exactly erupt in applause.
The young media personality, daughter of Kim Kardashian and Ye (née Kanye West), made her Hollywood Bowl debut on Friday and Saturday as Simba at Disney's The Lion King 30th Anniversary Live to Film Concert Event, which featured cast members from the 1994 original, the 2019 remake and the Broadway musical performing songs from the film live.
After an introduction by Jason Weaver, who sang the role of Simba in the 1994 film “The Lion King,” West belted out a spirited rendition of “I Just Can't Wait to Be King.” Wearing an ERL Simba-inspired zip-up hoodie and fluffy headpiece, the 10-year-old excitedly sang and danced surrounded by animal dancers, according to footage of the performance shared online.
The star-studded concert lineup also included performances by Weaver, Billy Eichner, Jeremy Irons, Nathan Lane, Heather Headley and Jennifer Hudson.
West's performance was criticized on social media, with some claiming that the younger Kardashian was cast because of her parents' celebrity status.
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North West takes to the stage:Kim Kardashian's daughter Ye joins cast of Disney's 'The Lion King' live concert
North West's 'Lion King' concert appearance sparks criticism on social media
Critics on social media slammed West's inclusion at the “Lion King” concert as an example of nepotism in the entertainment industry.
“North West would be great as the lead in a high school production of The Lion King, but for a 30th anniversary concert this was kind of embarrassing,” wrote X-user @NomadicalKing. “The nepotism was obvious and the lack of rehearsal was glaringly obvious. Shame on her parents… this is more their fault than hers.”
“Northwest and the Lion King are a reminder of the real world and what it's like interviewing for a job or opportunity,” @TsukiiLyte wrote on X. “It's not about what you can do or how perfect or qualified you think you are, it's about who you know. We've all seen it, and this is no different.”
One X user said West's casting “ruined the integrity” of the Disney classic.
“Hundreds of talented kids have worked hard to get these opportunities,” the user wrote, including “the kid who played Simba/Nala in The Lion King on Broadway didn't come from any money and won through nepotism.”
“I'm all for giving nepobabies a chance,” wrote X-user @littlemsfancy_, “but a hard-working acting kid deserves that role. She even had a hoodie and slippers on.”
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'Lion King' star Jason Weaver praises North West
In an Instagram post on Saturday, Weaver said it was an “honor” to perform alongside West, a “future young superstar.”
“So proud of you North! You're doing such an amazing job on this show,” Weaver wrote alongside a photo of the two of them. “Can't wait for everyone to see your performance of I Just Can't Wait to Be King when The Lion King 30th Anniversary comes to Disney+!”
He added: “You are a true professional and I wish you nothing but the best as you continue your journey towards greatness!!”
Contributor: Brendan Morrow, USA TODAY
