what shakespeare play is the lion king based on

Quick answer: The Lion King is most commonly said to be based on Shakespeare’s Hamlet , though it also borrows a few ideas from other Shakespeare plays.

Why Hamlet?

The main parallel is the story of a young prince whose uncle kills his father, takes the throne, and forces the heir into exile before he returns to reclaim his place. That basic setup is the clearest Shakespeare connection in The Lion King.

Other Shakespeare echoes

Some writers also point to Macbeth because of the usurpation, disorder in the kingdom, and the way Scar’s rule throws the land into chaos. Others note smaller similarities to Henry IV in Simba’s coming-of-age arc.

Bottom line

If you want the shortest answer: it’s mostly Hamlet.