Disney to make live-action 'Lion King,' Favreau directing

NEW YORK -- The animated classic "The Lion King" will be the latest Disney film to receive a live-action remake.

Disney announced Wednesday that Jon Favreau, who helmed the box-office hit "Jungle Book" remake, will direct the new "Lion King."

He also is working on a "Jungle Book" sequel.

The circle of life inevitably leads to live-action remakes for Disney classics. The new "Lion King" follows in the wake of similar remakes for "The Jungle Book," "Cinderella," "Pete's Dragon" and the upcoming "Beauty and the Beast."

The original 1994 "Lion King" film grossed $968.8 million and won two Oscars, including one for the Elton John song "Can You Feel the Love Tonight."

The Grammy-winning soundtrack sold more than 14 million copies.

And the hit Broadway musical has been running for 19 years.