At 13, Jason Weaver was offered $2 million by Disney to sing as young Simba in The Lion King; his mother chose $100,000 plus royalties instead, and 32 years later he says the checks are still coming
- Posted on October 9, 2026
- By The Times of India
- 1 Views
- 1 min read
In brief
Jason Weaver's career-defining moment came at age 13 when Disney offered a substantial contract for voicing young Simba in The Lion King. His mother's strategic decision to negotiate royalties over an upfront lump sum proved remarkably prescient, as decades later the actor continues receiving ongoing payments from the Disney classic. This case study demonstrates the long-term value of entertainment residuals and smart contract negotiations in the film industry.
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At 13, Jason Weaver was offered $2 million by Disney to sing as young Simba in The Lion King; his mother chose $100,000 plus royalties instead, and 32 years later he says the checks are still coming
At 13, most children are still figuring out what they want to be when they grow up. For Jason Weaver, however, life had already presented an opportunity that could have changed his family's fortunes overnight.
