Lebohang "Lebo M" Morake, the Grammy-winning South African composer behind the iconic "Circle of Life" chant in Disney's The Lion King, has filed a $20 million lawsuit against Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Jonasi. The lawsuit alleges Jonasi intentionally misrepresented the chant's meaning, damaging Morake's reputation and business relationships with Disney .
The dispute arose from Jonasi's podcast appearance, where he translated the Zulu and Xhosa lyrics as "Look, there's a lion. Oh my god," sparking laughter from the hosts. Morake claims the correct translation is "All hail the king, we all bow in the presence of the king," a royal metaphor invoking kingship and ancestral authority .
Jonasi has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $20,000 for legal fees, describing the situation as one of the most difficult periods of his life. He maintains his comments were made in jest and is seeking support to defend himself .
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