The story of The Lion King has been expanded in a variety of interesting ways over the years. Now the Lion King franchise will place its focus on the iconic villain Scar for its next iteration.
Specifically, it’s been revealed that Dynamite Entertainment, via CBR, will be releasing a brand-new solo comic book series featuring Scar. The series, titled Disney Villains: Scar, currently has writer Chuck Brown and artist Trevor Fraley working on the project.
The series is expected to take place between scenes from the original Lion King film which will allow a new side of Scar to be explored. As teased in the official synopsis from Dynamite Entertainment:
“With Simba’s iconic birth, it has fully set in that Scar is never meant to be king while his brother and nephew inhabit Pride Rock. Unable to accept that fate, the imposing, corrupt lion begins to formulate devious plans. This journey will bring him face-to-face with the mysterious and fan-favorite shaman Rafiki. What more could be revealed in this first-ever spotlight on the character?”
Chuck Brown shared the following statement about working with the iconic Disney property:
“I’ll never forget the first time I saw the original film,” he began. “I’ve watched the whole movie over and over again to prepare. We had to find a way to make our story fit in seamlessly with the film. This story also needs to add something of value to the original story.”
Additionally, Trevor Fraley included his own statement regarding his excitement to work on the project:
“I was born the same year it [the film] came out, so it’s literally always been a part of my life and was most likely one of the first movies I ever saw. I want to be able to make the characters you know keep their iconic looks, while also keeping them fresh and interesting for the story we’re trying to tell. I actually learned how to draw a lion at a young age thanks to the original film, and it feels kind of surreal to be breathing life into something I drew so much inspiration from.”
Editor Nate Cosby also noted some exciting details about the comic book series. He discussed some of the ways in which Scar will be explored for Disney Villains: Scar.
“Chuck and Trevor’s vision of Scar is miraculous,” Cosby noted. “More than a simple origin, their tale takes place during the events of The Lion King, delving into the twisted psychology of a character whose thirst for power takes him to unthinkably dark depths.”
Disney Villains: Scar #1 will be released in April 2023 via Dynamite Entertainment.