 |
| Nala | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical information | |||
| Gender |
Female | ||
| Species | |||
| Hair color |
Brown, cream, and tan | ||
| Eye color |
Teal | ||
| Biographical information | |||
| Also known as |
• The queen | ||
| Status |
Living | ||
| Residence | |||
| Affiliations | |||
| Titles |
Queen of Pride Rock | ||
| Relationship information | |||
| Family |
| ||
| Allies |
| ||
| Enemies |
Banzai, Ed, Scar, Shenzi, Zira, Cheezi (formerly), Chungu (formerly), Janja (formerly), Kovu (formerly), Makuu (formerly), Nne (formerly), Pumbaa (formerly), Tano (formerly), Vitani (formerly) | ||
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Nala is a female lion. She currently serves as the queen consort of Pride Rock through her marriage to Simba. She is the daughter of Sarafina, and the mate of Simba, with whom she has a son, Kion, and a daughter, Kiara.
As a cub, Nala was betrothed to Simba, the prince heir of Pride Rock. The two were best friends throughout their childhood. However, when Scar lied to the pride that Simba was dead, they were separated for many years. Under Scar's reign, the Pride Lands fell into disarray, and Nala sought help outside the kingdom. During the course of her search, she met a full-grown Simba, with whom she had a delighted reunion. She urged him to reclaim his birthright, and though he resisted at first, he eventually returned to the Pride Lands and challenged Scar's right to rule. Along with the rest of her pride, Nala fought against Scar and his hyena allies. Upon the pride's victory, she welcomed Simba as her new king and became his mate and queen.
Biography
Early life
Nala was born to an unnamed male lion and Sarafina. She lived in the Pride Lands as a member of Mufasa's pride. As per the law of the Pride Lands monarchy, she was betrothed to Simba, the prince heir of Pride Rock.[1]
Cubhood
Visit to the Elephant Graveyard
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Simba invites Nala to play with him.
One day, Sarafina was bathing Nala when Simba approached. In an undertone, he told Nala that he had just heard about a great place that they could explore. Nala pointed out in annoyance that she was in the middle of a bath, and Sarabi took advantage of Nala's words to give Simba a bath of his own.
Once Simba had been bathed, Nala remarked that his place of interest had better not be "dumb," and Simba assured her that it was "really cool." In the face of Sarabi's suspicions, Simba explained that the place was around the water hole. Nala started to protest, but Simba whispered to her that he would show her when they got there, and she asked her mother for permission to play. To the cubs' disappointment, Sarabi only allowed the cubs to go if they brought along Zazu.
Simba and Nala brag about the former's status as the future king of Pride Rock.
As the cubs and Zazu headed toward the water hole, Nala asked Simba what their true destination was, and Simba told her that they were going to an Elephant Graveyard. Nala responded with excitement, but Simba shushed her and reminded her that Zazu was flying just above them. Nala asked how they could get rid of him, and the two cubs began to whisper a plan to each other, something Zazu mistook as romantic.
The cubs were confused when Zazu mentioned that they were "betrothed," "affianced," and "intended." Nala asked for clarification, and Zazu informed them that they would marry each other someday. Both cubs recoiled in disgust. Nala commented that them being married would be "weird," and Simba vowed to change the law when he became king. Zazu protested, but Nala pointed out that since Simba was the future king, Zazu must do what he said. Zazu pointed out that Simba was not the king yet and added that the cub was shaping up to be a "pretty pathetic" king.
Simba and Nala marvel at the Elephant Graveyard.
In order to distract Zazu, the cubs trapped him beneath the underside of a rhinoceros and bounded away. Nala happily remarked on how they had lost Zazu, but Simba tried to take the credit. Irritated, she pointed out that the plan had been her idea. However, he continued to take the credit, so she pinned him and teased him for his loss. He pushed her off, only to tackle her again. The cubs rolled down a steep embankment, and Nala pinned Simba again.
A geyser interrupted the two, and the cubs realized that they had arrived at the Elephant Graveyard. The cubs walked deeper into the Elephant Graveyard and marveled at the landscape. Nala noted that they could get into big trouble and wondered if a nearby dead elephant's brain was still inside its skull. Simba began to investigate, but Zazu arrived and demanded that the cubs return to the Pride Lands, for they were in danger. Before Simba and Nala could heed Zazu's advice, Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed exited the nearby skull and accused the trio of trespassing.
Simba attempts to defend Nala from a trio of hungry hyenas.
Zazu tried to herd Simba and Nala out of the Elephant Graveyard, but the hyenas cornered them and made it apparent that they wanted to eat the cubs. While the hyenas were distracted, Simba, Nala, and Zazu fled. Zazu was snatched from the air, and the cubs went back to find him. However, when they challenged the hyenas, they ended up running for their lives again.
With the hyenas in hot pursuit, Simba and Nala scaled a pile of bones, but Nala slid down the pile toward Shenzi. Before the hyena could do her any harm, Simba slashed Shenzi across the face, which allowed Nala to get away. The two cubs attempted to climb an elephant skeleton, but their jumping weakened the slim strip of flesh they were standing on, and they fell through the dead animal's ribcage.
Simba and Nala return home from the Elephant Graveyard.
As the hyenas advanced on the cubs, Nala hid behind Simba, who tried to scare the hyenas off with his kittenish roar. Mufasa suddenly came to the rescue, drowning out Simba's roar with a more powerful one of his own. He then beat, pinned, and scared off the hyenas. Once the hyenas were gone, he turned his fury on Simba for having disobeyed him. As the group departed, Nala quietly told Simba that she thought he had been very brave. The cubs left the Elephant Graveyard and walked through the Pride Lands in silence. Eventually, Mufasa paused and commanded Zazu to take Nala home. With a final pitying glance at Simba, Nala left with Zazu.[1]
Scar's coronation
One night, when Scar broke the news to the pride about Mufasa and Simba's deaths in the gorge, Nala mourned. She nuzzled against her mother's leg and shed a single tear. She then looked on in shock and fear as the hyenas closed in on Pride Rock.[1]
Young adulthood
Reunion with Simba
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Simba recognizes Nala after she pins him.
Many seasons later, a full-grown Nala journeyed to the jungle for help, as Scar and his hyena minions had turned the Pride Lands into a wasteland. She relentlessly chased Pumbaa when he strayed too far from his friend, Timon. She expertly kept up with the warthog as he tried to throw her off by turning and twisting. Just as she was about to kill both him and Timon, Simba charged toward and attacked her. The two fought until Simba tackled her, and she used her signature move against him, pinning him to the ground. This made Simba recognize her. He spoke her name, and she let him up, staring at him in confusion. She inquired after his identity, and he told her that he was Simba.
Once Nala recognized her old friend, the two greeted each other excitedly and asked one another what they were doing in the jungle. Eventually, a confused Timon broke up the conversation and demanded to know what was going on. Simba introduced Nala to his two friends, and Nala was pleased to meet them.
Simba and Nala begin to develop romantic feelings for each other.
After the introductions, Nala mused about what would happen when everyone found out that Simba had been in the jungle all this time. She unknowingly recited Scar's words exactly when she asked Simba what Sarabi would think of him. When Simba told her that no one had to know, she told him that everyone thought he was dead, as Scar had told the pride about the stampede. Simba asked her for more information, but she insisted that it did not matter since he was alive and the rightful king of the Pride Lands.
Timon scoffed at Nala's words and told her that she had her "lions crossed." Pumbaa began worshiping Simba, but the young lion told him to stop. Timon corrected Pumbaa's word choice and laughingly said that Simba was not the king. He then curiously asked Simba if he was. Simba abruptly replied that he was not, and Nala objected. However, he reiterated his argument. When Timon continued to press Simba, Nala politely asked him and Pumbaa to excuse them for a few moments.
Nala urges Simba to reclaim his birthright.
Once they were gone, Nala sadly told Simba how much his return would mean to everyone, especially her. Simba reassured her that it was okay, and Nala nuzzled him, telling him that she had really missed him. The two continued to nuzzle each other, to Timon and Pumbaa's chagrin. That evening, they spent time together and fell in love.
Simba gave Nala a tour of the jungle and asked if she thought it was a great place. Nala commented that it was beautiful, then asked why he had not returned home if he had been alive this whole time. He claimed that he wanted to "get out on his own" and "live his own life," but she informed him that the pride needed him at home. When he denied this, Nala again iterated that he was the king. Simba denied her assertions and claimed that Scar was the true king. Nala then informed Simba of the chaos that had been brewing in the Pride Lands under Scar's reign and told him that if he did not return, everyone would starve.
Nala explains to Timon and Pumbaa that Simba has returned to his homeland.
Once more, Simba refused to return to the Pride Lands. He then pointed out that Nala had left as well, but she countered that she had only left to find help and that Simba was their only hope. When Simba again denied her and sarcastically apologized to her, Nala responded that he was not the Simba she remembered and that she was disappointed in him. Simba commented that she sounded like his father, and Nala quipped that at least one of them sounded like Mufasa. This response infuriated Simba, who accused Nala of trying to uproot his life. Nala tried again to get Simba to tell her what he had been through, but he refused.
After Simba decided to return to the Pride Lands, Nala searched for him. She sought out Timon and Pumbaa in the hopes that they knew where Simba had gone. Rafiki told the three from atop a tree that "the king has returned." Upon hearing this, Nala was awed and delighted that Simba had gone back. After explaining the situation to Timon and Pumbaa, she ran off to assist Simba.[1]
Battle for Pride Rock
| “ | Scar: You see them? They think I'm king. Nala: Well, we don't. Simba's the rightful king.
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Upon arriving in the Pride Lands, Nala caught up to Simba and commented on how awful the kingdom had become. Simba admitted that he had not wanted to believe her, and she asked why he had come back. Simba replied that he had finally gotten "some sense knocked into" him, and Nala vowed to help him fight for the Pride Lands. Simba reminded her that it would be dangerous, but she replied that she laughed in the face of danger, an echo of what Simba had once said as a cub.
Nala rallies the pride against Scar and his hyenas.
Just then, Timon and Pumbaa arrived and pledged their services to Simba. Together, Timon, Pumbaa, Simba, and Nala snuck into the Pride Lands and hid behind a large rock to observe several hyenas who were loitering in-between them and Pride Rock. With Timon and Pumbaa's help, Simba and Nala managed to slip past the hyenas. Before splitting off from each other, Simba instructed Nala to find Sarabi and rally the lionesses while he looked for Scar.
After gathering the pride, Nala led the lionesses to Pride Rock and arrived just as Simba was confronting Scar. Upon hearing Scar proclaim that the hyenas saw him as the rightful king, Nala objected that the lionesses did not. Scar brought up Mufasa's death, and Nala confusedly asked what he was talking about. With some pressure from Scar, Simba confessed that he was to blame for Mufasa's death, to the pride's shock and horror. Scar proceeded to shame Simba and backed him toward the promontory of Pride Rock, to the point that the younger lion fell and barely caught on to the ledge. Eventually, Simba regained his footing and forced Scar to confess that he had murdered Mufasa. At Scar's confession, the lionesses lunged into battle against the hyenas, and a fight broke out. After an extended battle, Simba and his allies managed to defeat Scar and his hyena army.[1]
Simba's coronation
Simba and Nala with their newborn cub.
After the battle, rain began to fall on the Pride Lands and extinguish the fires at Pride Rock. As the rain continued to fall, Simba descended Pride Rock and embraced both Nala and Sarabi. He then began to ascend Pride Rock, with the lionesses looking on joyfully. Upon reaching the promontory, Simba roared over his kingdom, and the lionesses roared in reply.
Seasons later, when the Pride Lands had been restored to its former glory, Simba, Nala, Timon, and Pumbaa stood on the promontory of Pride Rock and looked down on the animals who had assembled below. Rafiki soon approached, cradling Simba and Nala's newborn cub in his arms. The couple watched happily as Rafiki lifted the cub into the air for all the animals to see.[1]
Adulthood
Kiara's presentation
Simba and Nala reared two cubs: a son, Kion, and a daughter, Kiara.[2] One morning, Rafiki called the Pride Landers to Pride Rock. Once they had assembled, Nala walked onto the promontory alongside Simba, and Rafiki presented Kiara to the gathered Pride Landers. After the ceremony, Rafiki anointed Kiara, and Simba and Nala nuzzled her affectionately.[3]
Conflict with Zira
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Nala reminds Simba that he was just like Kiara as a cub.
One day, when Kiara tried to leave Pride Rock to explore the kingdom, Simba stopped her and reminded her to be careful. Nala approached and gently told Kiara to mind her father. After Kiara ran off, Nala commented on how similar Kiara was to Simba when he had been a cub. This concerned Simba, who reminded Nala of the danger they had gotten themselves into, to which she playfully pinned him and reminded him that he had been the one who had put them in danger. The two nuzzled, and Nala reassured Simba that Kiara would be fine. However, as Nala strode back toward the den, Simba sent Timon and Pumbaa after Kiara.
Later, when Kiara met an Outsider cub named Kovu, Simba, Nala, Timon, Pumbaa, and several lionesses arrived to protect her from Kovu's mother, Zira. After a brief confrontation with Simba, Zira left, and the Pride Landers returned to Pride Rock. Nala noticed that Simba wanted to stay behind to discipline Kiara, so she left the two alone and returned with the others to Pride Rock.[3]
Dawn of the Lion Guard
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Nala encourages Simba to tell Kion about his destiny as the leader of the Lion Guard.
At Pride Rock, Simba, Nala, and Rafiki overheard Kion's Roar of the Elders, which he had used to save his friend Bunga from two hyenas. Upon hearing the Roar, Rafiki declared that it was time for Kion to become the leader of the Lion Guard. Simba was reluctant, as he believed that Kion was not ready for such a responsibility, but Nala agreed with Rafiki and encouraged Simba to listen to him.
Later, Simba, Nala, and Tiifu watched in horror as Kiara got caught in a gazelle stampede caused by Janja and his clan. Just in time, Kion and his Lion Guard were able to get the herd away from Kiara and deliver her to safety. Upon Kiara's rescue, Nala nuzzled her affectionately. Meanwhile, the Lion Guard drove off Janja's clan, and Nala expressed pride in her son.[2]
Makuu's leadership
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Nala reminds Kion of Simba's victory over Scar.
When Kion returned to Pride Rock, he admitted his misgivings about the mashindano between Makuu and Pua. He asserted that fighting was an inadequate way of choosing a leader, but Nala reminded him that Simba had used a physical fight to beat Scar. Simba added that many animal species had traditions that he, as king, must recognize and respect.
That evening, Nala watched the mashindano between Makuu and Pua. Upon Makuu's victory, Kion expressed shock, and Nala grimly assured him that Pua had been defeated. Afterward, Simba and Nala went out hunting.[4]
Aminifu's funeral
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Nala and Zazu encourage Simba.
While Kiara stayed behind to watch over the Pride Lands, Nala met with Simba and Zazu to begin their journey to Kilio Valley for Aminifu's funeral. Along the way, Simba mentioned a "big responsibility," and Nala asked if he was worried about Kiara acting as queen or him having to give a tribute at Aminifu's funeral. Simba asked why he would be worried about that, and Nala reminded him that he had to deliver the tribute in Elephantese. Zazu bragged about all the languages he knew, and Nala reminded him that they already knew. Unbeknownst to the trio, they had been spied upon by Mzingo, who resolved to keep an eye on the doings of the Pride Landers.
As Mzingo flew away, Simba lamented his kingly responsibilities, and Nala asked Zazu to remind Simba of his more enjoyable duties. Zazu did so, and Nala expressed joy at Simba's regained confidence. However, during one of Zazu's Elephantese lessons, Simba lost his patience and roared at the hornbill, blowing him into a patch of grass. Nala dashed to her mate's side and reminded him that, though he may not be an elephant, he was a king and that it was his duty to carry out this tribute to an old friend. Soothed by Nala's advice, Simba asked Zazu to continue his lessons.
Nala mourns Aminifu alongside his herd.
As Simba continued to practice his speech, Nala asked Zazu how far away they were from Kilio Valley, to which Zazu revealed that they had just arrived. From atop a nearby hillside, Simba, Nala, and Zazu witnessed the elephant herd placing flowers on Aminifu's body and grieved the old elephant's passing. They then descended into the valley to greet the herd. During Simba's speech, he accidentally said, "He had poop on him," instead of "He had good on him," and Nala was horrified. However, the elephants began to laugh, and Aminifu's daughter, Ma Tembo, explained that her father had always had poop on him and that it had often been the cause of laughter.
When Simba and Nala returned home, Kiara asked how the tribute had gone, and Nala answered that everything had turned out fine. She then asked how ruling the Pride Lands had gone. Though Kiara began to stumble over her words, Kion jumped in and proclaimed that Kiara was going to make a great queen someday.[5]
Kupatana
At the Kupatana celebration, Nala stood beside Simba, Kiara, and Kion as Simba gave his opening speech to the gathered animals. Shortly into the ceremony, Reirei and her family attacked, but they were promptly defeated by the Lion Guard. Once the danger had passed, the Kupatana celebration continued.[6]
Tracking gazelles
| “ | Fuli: But the gazelle got away! Nala: Of course it did. We're still training for Kiara's first hunt. |
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Nala brought Kiara, Tiifu, Zuri, Kion, and Fuli to a practice hunting session. As the session began, Nala tasked Kiara with leading the others. Fuli and Kiara started to hunt side by side, but just before Fuli could pounce on a gazelle, Nala ordered them to stop, and the gazelle ran away. Confused, Fuli pointed out that the gazelle had escaped, and Nala revealed that they had only been training for Kiara's first hunt. She then called for Kiara, Tiifu, and Zuri to leave with her.[7]
Elephant concert
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Nala looks down on Simba worriedly.
Nala ushered Kiara and Kion out of Pride Rock, as they were running late for the elephants' concert. The royal family set out across the Pride Lands, only to get intercepted by Ono, who informed Kion that some antelope were stuck in the mud. Nala encouraged Kion to help the antelope, and he reluctantly left with Ono. As Simba, Nala, and Kiara continued on their way, Kiara asked if the elephants would perform a song with loud trumpeting, and Nala answered that the song was a tradition. Just then, the royal family found themselves on unstable ground, and Nala urged Kiara to move uphill. Though Nala and Kiara managed to reach safety, Simba fell into a sinkhole. To Nala and Kiara's relief, he emerged unscathed from underneath a pile of rocks. Nala asked Simba if he could climb out of the sinkhole, but he explained that there was nothing for him to grab onto.
Before long, the Lion Guard arrived, and Nala informed them that Simba was all right but stuck. Just then, Bunga jumped into the sinkhole after Simba and ended up getting stuck as well. Beshte tried to get a closer look but nearly fell into the sinkhole, so Nala ordered everyone to back away from the ledge. Kiara almost fell in herself but got saved by Fuli, to Nala's relief. After the scare, Kion ordered everyone to stay away from the sinkhole, and Nala added that they did not want anyone else to fall in. Meanwhile, Simba and Bunga began to argue, and Nala explained to Kion that, though Bunga may be a good friend, he could be "trying." She then admitted that Simba could be trying as well.
Nala congratulates Ma Tembo's herd on their performance.
After Bunga inadvertently caused more ground to collapse, Kion came up with another plan to save him and Simba. Nala relayed the plan to Simba, and he insisted that she go on ahead with Kiara, for it was tradition that the royal family attend the elephant concert. Nala argued that she was more worried about Simba, but at his insistence, she reluctantly agreed to leave with Kiara. As she departed, Nala voiced her hope that Kion would be able to help Simba get out in time.
After the elephants' concert, Nala and Kiara praised the herd for their performance, and Nala apologized on Simba's behalf, explaining that he had planned to be in attendance. Ma Tembo accepted the apology and pointed out that not all plans went the way they were expected to. Just then, Simba arrived with the Lion Guard, Timon, and Pumbaa. Together, the royal family, the Lion Guard, Timon, and Pumbaa performed "Hakuna Matata" for Ma Tembo's herd.[8]
Meeting Ajabu
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Kion brought Beshte's new friend, Ajabu the okapi, to Pride Rock to meet Simba and Nala. He asked his parents if Ajabu could become a Pride Lander, and the two agreed to let him stay in the kingdom as long as he liked.[9]
Royal Buffalo Wallow
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Simba and Nala left Kiara in charge of presiding over the Royal Buffalo Wallow.[10]
Attacked by Makuu
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When Janja and his clan snuck into the Pride Lands, they ran into Nala, who ordered them to return to their territory. Instead of heeding Nala's warning, Janja surrounded her with his cronies and ordered an attack. Just then, Kion arrived and, seeing his mother in danger, used the Roar of the Elders in a rage. The blast was so powerful that it not only knocked the hyenas back into the Outlands, but rebounded off a cliff and fractured the earth beneath Nala. As Nala struggled to keep from falling into the divide, Kion reached down the cliff and pulled her to safety.
Kion finds Nala surrounded by Janja and his clan.
Once on solid ground, Nala thanked Kion for having saved her life, but he lamented how he had nearly lost her. The rest of the Lion Guard approached and confirmed that they were all right. Kion surveyed the damage done by his Roar and expressed shock that his rage had brought on such destruction.
Following the incident, Kion refrained from using his powers to help the team. Bunga asked Kion why he was so reluctant to use the Roar of the Elders. Kion admitted that he had nearly hurt his mother with the Roar, and Bunga pointed out that Kion had not done so on purpose. Despite this, Kion worried that he could not control the Roar and should therefore never use it again. After reacting in horror to Kion's decision, Bunga reminded Kion that he was the leader of the Lion Guard and the fiercest in the Pride Lands. Kion begrudgingly agreed to take his friend's advice.
Nala nearly falls into a rift in the earth.
Later, Kion sought advice from the spirit of his grandfather, Mufasa. He explained what had happened when he had used the Roar in anger and confessed his fear that he would turn out like Scar. In answer to this, Mufasa pointed out that Scar had only ever cared for himself. He then asked Kion why he had used the Roar, and Kion explained that his mother had been in danger. Mufasa reminded Kion that Scar had never cared for anyone the way Kion cared for Nala, then encouraged Kion to speak to her about the incident.
Kion heeded Mufasa's advice and met with Nala. He explained to her what had happened with his Roar and begged for her forgiveness. Nala insisted that there was nothing to forgive and reminded Kion that he had saved her life, both from the hyenas and from the earthquake. Despite her reassurances, Kion confessed that he might never use the Roar again, but Nala reminded him that the Roar was a part of him and that she trusted him to use it responsibly.
Nala encourages Kion to trust himself.
As the two shared an embrace, Ono arrived with news that Makuu had taken over the Flood Plains. Together, Kion, Nala, and Ono hastened to the scene of the crime, where Kion and Nala commanded Makuu to share the Flood Plains with the other Pride Landers. In answer, two of Makuu's cronies knocked Nala into the water and carried her into the midst of the float. This prompted Kion to nearly use the Roar in his fury. Before he could wreak havoc on the Flood Plains, he stopped himself from roaring, and Nala called to him to trust himself.
Heeding his mother's advice, Kion used the Roar to specifically target Makuu's float and keep Nala from being harmed. With the crocodiles defeated, the team praised Kion for his efforts, and Fuli commented that she had not known that he could use the Roar in such a way. Kion stated that he had just needed to have faith in himself, to which Nala asserted that she had always had faith in him.[11]
Udugu
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Nala leads her cubs, Kiara and Kion, on the Trail to Udugu.
When Kiara managed to track Kion faster than ever before, Simba commented on the success, and Nala declared that the cubs were ready for a special day. Together, the parents descended Pride Rock to speak with their cubs, who were still playing and squabbling. Nala told Kiara and Kion that they were ready to accompany her on the Trail to Udugu, which was a special ceremony for royal siblings. Simba assured Kion that in the absence of their leader, the Lion Guard would be led by Simba.
After the talk, Nala led Kiara and Kion along the Trail to Udugu. As they walked, Kion questioned Kiara on what she thought would be waiting for them at the end of the trail, and Kiara answered that it would probably be animals excited to meet their future queen and her little brother. Kion argued that as the leader of the Lion Guard, he would be received with such a reception, to which Kiara quipped that they would have to see. The two cubs then began to playfully race one another.
Nala hides from her cubs in the hopes that they will work together to find Udugu.
Kion asked Nala how much farther they must travel, and she answered that Udugu was not an easy place to find. Kiara boasted that she would find Udugu first, and Kion took chase, unintentionally steering them toward a steep cliff. Nala yelled a warning, but too late, the cubs tumbled over the edge and hung on by their claws. Just in time, Nala pulled them to safety and reminded them that they must find Udugu another way.
After the rescue, Nala led Kiara and Kion to a patch of thorns, which she insisted was part of the Trail to Udugu. The cubs rushed into the thorns, and each tried to take a different path. However, both found themselves in too great of pain to continue. Suddenly, the two realized that Nala was gone and began to cry out for her. Nala, however, watched them from the bushes and commented that they were now truly on the Trail to Udugu.
Nala reveals herself to her cubs after they work together to find her.
Together, Kiara and Kion searched for Nala, who was still missing. When neither cub turned up any leads as to where she was, Kion lamented how they did not know where Udugu was and thus could not possibly know where to find Nala. This gave Kiara an idea, and she began sniffing for Nala's scent in the underbrush. She picked up her mother's trail on a path through the trees, and she and Kion began to follow it through the woods.
Once on the trail, Kion spotted Nala's pawprints, and the cubs tracked them to the bottom of a steep cliff. Confused, the cubs wondered where Nala could have possibly gone. Kiara and Kion mused over where Nala could be, and Kion pointed out that Nala could have climbed up on a nearby ledge and followed a trail along the cliff. The cubs attempted to leap onto the ledge themselves but were unable to get a firm grasp on the edge of the cliff. Realizing that they could not reach the ledge on their own, Kion suggested that he give Kiara a boost so that she could continue tracking Nala. Kiara asked Kion how he would reach the ledge, and he admitted that she was the better tracker and should therefore be the one to continue searching for their mother.
Nala stresses the importance of Udugu to her cubs.
Kiara clambered onto Kion's shoulders and strained to reach the edge of the cliff. Eventually, she got a firm hold on the ledge and pulled herself to the top of the cliff. There, she saw Nala, who greeted her cubs warmly and bounded down from the ledge. A confused Kion questioned why Nala had left them and not helped them find Udugu, and Nala explained that the cubs had found Udugu on their own. When the cubs reacted with puzzlement, Nala explained that "Udugu" was another word for "kinship" and that the two had found Udugu while working together to find her.
Once the three returned to Pride Rock, Simba reunited with them. He asked whether they had found Udugu, and the cubs explained that they had learned to work together as brother and sister. Kion then questioned how Simba had fared with the Guard, and Simba admitted that working with Kion's team had helped him find Udugu as well. He stressed the importance of Udugu and reminded the cubs that they would one day be responsible for the kingdom of the Pride Lands.[12]
Royal Mud Print Ceremony
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Simba and Nala invite Hadithi to a Royal Mud Print Ceremony.
When Hadithi, a legendary eagle, visited the Pride Lands, Simba and Nala paid him a visit. Nala told Hadithi that they were glad his travels had brought him back to the Pride Lands, and Kion asked his parents if they knew of Hadithi. They confirmed that they did, and Nala explained to Kion that Hadithi was a hero to animals all over the kingdom, not just birds. She and Simba then invited Hadithi to a Royal Mud Print Ceremony, during which he would preserve his talon marks in mud forever alongside those of other heroes. Hadithi accepted the honor and asked the monarchs for a Traditional Ceremonial Nest. Simba admitted that he had never heard of such a tradition, but Nala reminded him that they had never had a mud print ceremony for an eagle before. The two subsequently granted Hadithi's request, and the Lion Guard agreed to assemble the nest themselves.
However, when it came time for the ceremony, Hadithi admitted that he had abandoned Ono to danger, and the Lion Guard rushed off to rescue their friend. After Ono was saved, he was honored with the ceremony instead.[13]
Christmas
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Nala convinces Simba to partake in Bunga's Christmas celebration.
One day, Kion spoke to his family about partaking in a Christmas celebration for Timon and Pumbaa. Kiara and Nala enthusiastically agreed to the proceedings, but Simba showed little interest in attending. Nala reminded him that it was for Timon and Pumbaa, then added that he could maybe enjoy himself. This made Simba reluctantly agree to join in on the festivities, though he told his family that if he was going to do it, then so would they. Kion asked his family to bring along Tiifu and Zuri, and Nala assured him that he could count on them. Kion then wished his family a merry Christmas, to Nala's confusion.
That night, Simba, Nala, Kiara, Tiifu, and Zuri arrived for Bunga's rehearsal. At the sight of the large group of Pride Landers who had already gathered, Nala marveled at the production's size. Bunga started directing the animals, only for Simba and Mtoto to interrupt him. Nala quickly assured Bunga that he should not let the royal family distract him, then asked him to continue his rehearsal.
Nala partakes in Bunga's "The Twelve Ways of Christmas" performance.
Come sunrise, Kion expressed satisfaction with the animals' performances, but Bunga declared that they still needed more practice. Ma Tembo pointed out that they would never be able to live up to Bunga's expectations, and Nala suggested that they try again next year. Before the animals could depart, Bunga desperately explained how important the performance was to both himself and Timon, and the Pride Landers decided to remain and keep practicing.
Shortly afterward, the royal family partook in the "The Twelve Ways of Christmas" performance, during which Nala pushed a tired Tiifu and Zuri along. After the performance, Timon lamented that Dandy Claws would never come, only for Pumbaa to appear in costume. Pumbaa apologized for his lack of gifts, but Timon pointed out that their family and friends were the gifts. The Lion Guard decided to make Christmas an annual holiday in the Pride Lands, and the gathered Pride Landers yelled, "Merry Christmas!" in unison.[14]
New water source
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One day, the royal family gathered at Pride Rock to meet Makini, Rafiki's new apprentice. Nala expressed interest in meeting Makini, and Kion told her that she was very talkative. Kiara then asked about Ma Tembo's search for a new water source, and Kion explained that she had not had any luck so far. Kiara resolved to help Ma Tembo, and Simba and Nala agreed that it would be a good experience for her. Just then, Makini appeared, introduced herself, and requested to join Kiara on her mission. An exasperated Rafiki followed Makini out onto the promontory and formally introduced her as his apprentice. Simba and Nala both greeted her warmly.
Nala and her family meet Makini.
After the introductions, Kiara pointed out that, since Makini would someday serve her, they should help Ma Tembo together. Makini expressed excitement at the prospect, and Nala commented that Kiara and Makini would have to learn how to work together, just as Simba and Rafiki had once done. Simba subsequently agreed to Kiara's request, and Makini hugged both Simba and Nala, thanking them for their approval. As Kiara and Makini set off to help Ma Tembo, Tiifu and Zuri tried to follow them. However, Nala halted them and told them that they could spend the day with her instead, to their delight.
During Kiara's attempt to help Ma Tembo, she got kidnapped by Janja and taken to the volcano. The hyenas surmised that, since Kion had used the Roar of the Elders out of anger when they had attacked Nala, he would do the same for Kiara. Kion eventually confronted Janja over the kidnapping, and Janja threatened to hurt Simba or Nala next. Enraged, Kion used the Roar of the Elders, and the Lion Guard escaped the volcano with Kiara. Later, Nala joined the crowd of animals who were following Ma Tembo as she searched for water.[15]
Mashindano
Nala watched the mashindano between Kiburi and Makuu.[16]
Makini's portrait
Nala watched as Makini painted a portrait of the royal family at Pride Rock.[17]
Ukumbusho
Nala attended the Ukumbusho Tradition with her pride. However, during the ceremony, a horde of bees attacked the elephants, and Nala shielded herself from the swarm. Eventually, the Lion Guard managed to calm the elephants down, and the celebration continued.[18]
Kumbuka
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Nala attended the Kumbuka celebration at Pride Rock. During the festivities, Simba got stung by Sumu the scorpion and subsequently collapsed. When the Lion Guard returned to Pride Rock, Nala informed Kion that Simba was very ill, and the cub resolved to find an antidote for his father. Nala and Kiara stayed by Simba's side until the Lion Guard returned with volcanic ash, which healed him. After the rescue, Nala rejoiced that Simba was safe and assured the Lion Guard that he would recover.[19]
Tiifu and Zuri's false alarm
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Nala scolds Tiifu and Zuri for their false alarm.
The Lion Guard rushed to Pride Rock in response to Tiifu and Zuri yelling for help. However, once they arrived, they found that the cubs were simply distressed about how the heat was messing up their fur. Nala arrived with Kiara and reminded Tiifu and Zuri that they should only call the Lion Guard for actual emergencies, not "fur" emergencies. Beshte suggested that Tiifu and Zuri visit the mudpots to cool off, and Zuri urged Kiara to take time off from her royal duties to accompany them. Nala reminded Kiara that the edge of the Pride Lands was no longer safe and told her to take along a member of the Lion Guard. Bunga opted to join the cubs on their trip, and Nala asked Kion to accompany them as well.[20]
Dhahabu's visit
Nala was present when Dhahabu arrived at Pride Rock to discuss a water treaty with Simba. That night, Nala watched as Dhahabu announced that the treaty would be renewed.[21]
Scar's attack
Nala was present at Pride Rock when the Pride Landers gathered to discuss whether they should leave the Pride Lands for good. At Kion's prompting, the assembled animals journeyed to Mizimu Grove, where they saw that Makini's baobab seed had survived a fire that had been started by Scar and his minions. The seed's survival inspired the Pride Landers to remain in the kingdom and work together to defeat Scar. Makini then planted the seed while the Pride Landers looked on.[22]
Battle for the Pride Lands
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When the vultures of Scar's army set fire to Pride Rock, Nala got trapped on the promontory with Simba and Kiara. Sensing his family in danger, Kion sent Ono to save them, and the egret hastened to the rescue with Anga at his side. Upon reaching Pride Rock, Anga picked up Kiara in her talons, and Nala urged her to be careful. Once Kiara had been rescued, Anga led Hadithi to the promontory, and they carried Simba and Nala to safety as well.
Anga helps rescue the royal family from a fire at Pride Rock.
After the rescue, the royal family witnessed the emergence of Scar's spirit in the flames of Pride Rock. Scar taunted Simba about the demise of the Lion Guard, and Nala expressed horror and shock at the purported death of her son. No sooner had Scar revealed this when Kion appeared before the Pride Landers, unharmed, to Nala's joy. Once Scar had disappeared, the Pride Landers despaired over their chances against him. However, Janja and Jasiri arrived, and Janja informed Kion that he could destroy Scar's spirit by using the Roar of the Elders inside the volcano. Heeding Janja's advice, Kion and Simba readied an invasion force for the following morning, and Kion sent the Pride Landers to get some rest.
The next morning, Nala watched the sun rise with Simba, Rafiki, and Makini.[23]
Lion Guard's trip to the Tree of Life
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Simba and Nala bid Kion farewell.
During the battle between the Pride Landers and the Army of Scar, Kion got bitten by Ushari and scarred across one eye. Simba, Nala, and Kiara hastened to his side, and Nala asked if he would be all right and if Rafiki could help him. Rafiki explained that the venom in Kion's scar could corrupt him if left untreated and that there was no cure in the Pride Lands. Though Nala was horrified, Rafiki assured her that Kion could go to the Tree of Life for healing. Nala gave Kion her blessing to leave and, despite Kion's reluctance, suggested that the Lion Guard accompany him. Shortly afterward, Kion appointed Ono to be the Pride Lands' smartest, and Nala marveled at his original way of thinking.
Later, the royal family saw the Lion Guard off, and Nala asked if they knew how to get to the Tree of Life. Ono assured the monarchs that he had memorized the route to the Tree of Life, and Nala voiced her hope that Kion would return in time for Kiara's first hunt. As the Lion Guard set off, Simba and Nala nuzzled affectionately.[23]
Reunification of the Outsiders and Pride Landers
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On the day of Kiara's first hunt, Nala strode past the assembled lionesses and sat next to Simba. Once Kiara had walked past the lionesses, she nuzzled Nala, who, in turn, assured her that she would do fine. Despite Simba's doubts about Kiara embarking on a solo hunt, Nala encouraged him to let their daughter complete the mission on her own. Reluctantly, he agreed, and Kiara took off into the savanna alone.
Nala embraces Kiara before her first hunt.
Later, after Kovu rescued Kiara from a fire, Nala rushed up to Kiara and embraced her, relieved that she was safe. Simba confronted Kovu, and Nala admonished him for his ferocity. In the course of the conversation, Kovu asked to join Simba's pride, and Nala reminded Simba that they owed Kovu for his rescue of Kiara. Reluctantly, Simba accepted Kovu into the pride, and the group returned to Pride Rock.
That night, Nala slept peacefully next to Simba while he had a nightmare about his father's death.
Nala urges Simba to give Kovu a chance.
The next night, Kovu and Kiara stargazed together. Nala found Simba on a hill, watching the couple and desperately trying to seek advice from the Great Kings of the Past. She asked him if the Great Kings of the Past had helped, then reminded him that, though he wanted to walk the path expected of him, Kovu might not want to do the same. She then urged Simba to see the good in Kovu and to get to know him before he made too many judgments.
The next day, after Simba got injured in an ambush set up by Zira, Nala cared for him at Pride Rock. She then saw Kovu arrive and watched Kiara go to greet him, only to be stopped by Simba. Nala looked on as Kiara tried and failed to get Simba to listen to Kovu. Simba ultimately banished Kovu from the Pride Lands due to his part in Zira's plot, and Nala expressed shock and horror at the decision.
Nala joins her pride in the battle against the Outsiders.
Nala was present at the final battle between the Outsiders and the Pride Landers. She confronted Vitani, who mocked her about Kiara's absence and pounced on her from a high ledge. Eventually, the fight was halted by Kovu and Kiara, who called for peace between the prides. After Kiara prevented Zira from killing Simba, the two fell down into the gorge. Nala warned Simba of the flooding river as he leaped into the gorge to rescue Kiara.
After Simba saved Kiara and helped her back up the ledge, Nala was relieved to see her daughter safe and sound, and the two embraced. Simba reconciled with Kovu and the reformed Outsiders. Afterward, Nala and the others journeyed back to Pride Rock, where she and Simba proudly witnessed Rafiki blessing the union of Kovu and Kiara. Simba and Nala walked to the promontory of Pride Rock, with Kovu and Kiara following them. The four lions roared together as the gathered animals watched and cheered.[3]
Battle of the Lion Guards
| “ | Kion: We really did miss a lot. Nala: You did, and we have missed you. All of you.
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After Kion returned from the Tree of Life, he had a delighted reunion with his parents at Pride Rock. Nala wondered why he still had his scar, and he explained that, though his injury remained, the venom was gone. Simba asked if the journey to the Tree of Life had been worthwhile, and Beshte explained that they had met plenty of great animals there. Fuli agreed and smiled at her friend, Azaad. Nala inquired as to who he was, and Fuli explained that he had helped the Lion Guard return to the Pride Lands.
Simba and Nala embrace their son, Kion.
At the base of Pride Rock, the royal family and Rafiki told the Lion Guard the story of how the Outsiders had joined Simba's pride. At the end of the story, Kion commented that they had missed a lot, to which Nala agreed and said that she had missed them. That night, the royal family witnessed the appearance of Mufasa's spirit in the heavens above Pride Rock.
The next day, Nala witnessed the onset of the Battle of the Lion Guards at Mizimu Grove. She watched Beshte's, Fuli's, and Anga's individual challenges and witnessed Kion's mashindano with Vitani. She reacted with awe when Askari's spirit appeared in the sky and when Kion lifted Pride Rock with the Roar of the Elders.[24]
Kion's coronation
Nala attended Kion's wedding to Rani at the Tree of Life.[24]
Physical appearance
Despite her smaller size, Nala was able to pin Simba on his back.
As a cub, Nala was moderately sized and slender. She had a cream-colored pelt, with pale eye rims, a pale muzzle, and a pale underbelly. Her inner ears were a slightly darker cream, and she had thin brown eyebrows. Like most Pride Landers, she had a rounded pink nose and colorless paws. Her eyes were teal.
As an adult, Nala became larger, broader about the shoulders, and more muscular. Additionally, her fur color dulled, her eyebrows became thicker, and her nose changed from pink to brown. She proved to be an adept hunter and fighter, as she kept pace with large prey like Pumbaa and managed to pin a full-grown Simba on his back.[1]
Personality and traits
| “ | Simba: You know, you're starting to sound like my father. Nala: Good. At least one of us does.
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In her cubhood, Nala enjoyed getting into mischief with her best friend, Simba.
As a cub, Nala was adventurous, curious, and fun-loving. She enjoyed spending time with her best friend, Simba, even if it meant disobeying their parents and straying into forbidden territory. Strong-willed and spunky, she had a biting sense of humor and liked to tease both Simba and their frequent babysitter, Zazu. Despite their squabbles, Nala was fiercely loyal to Simba and admired him for his bravery, particularly when he tried to defend her from the hyenas at the Elephant Graveyard.
As an adult, Nala became more mature and responsible. Unlike Simba, who had spent many seasons ignoring his duty to the Pride Lands, she was exhaustive in her search for relief from Scar's reign and passionately appealed to Simba to return home and save their pride. In arguments, she could be forceful and sharp-tongued, such as when she unfavorably compared Simba to his deceased father, Mufasa. Even so, she was grateful to him when he returned to the Pride Lands and was eager to fight at his side in the battle against Scar.[1]
As an adult, Nala held Simba accountable for neglecting his duty to the Pride Lands.
Nala continued to demonstrate maturity and wisdom as she aged. She was one of the few Pride Landers to accept Kovu when he reformed, and she sympathized with Kiara's appeal to reunite the feuding prides. In the face of Simba's doubts about Kovu, Nala encouraged him to give the Outsider a chance and to be grateful to him for having saved Kiara's life. Even when in disagreement with Simba, Nala was always gentle and did not push him too hard, nor did she protest when he made decisions she disapproved of, such as Kovu's exile from the Pride Lands.
Nala's parenting style often contrasted with Simba's. While Simba was overprotective of and strict with Kiara, Nala believed that their daughter should have freedom and trusted her to take care of herself.[3] Similarly, Simba was loath to accept Kion's position as the leader of the Lion Guard, while Nala accepted it immediately and encouraged Simba to give their son a chance.[2] She was loving toward both her cubs and often motivated them to work together.[12]
Appearances
Trivia
General
- Nala was voiced by the following:
- In The Lion King, she was voiced by Niketa Calame as a cub and Moira Kelly as an adult.[25][26] Laura Williams provided her cub singing voice, while Sally Dworsky provided her adult singing voice.[27][28]
- In The Lion King II: Simba's Pride, she was voiced by Moira Kelly.[26]
- In The Lion King 1½, she was voiced by Moira Kelly.[26]
- In The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar, she was voiced by Gabrielle Union.[29]
- In The Lion Guard, she was voiced by Gabrielle Union.[29]
- In Disney's Active Play: The Lion King II: Simba's Pride, she was voiced by Moira Kelly.[26]
- In Disney's Activity Center: The Lion King, she was voiced by Niketa Calame.[25]
- In Kingdom Hearts II, she was voiced by Vanessa Marshall.[30]
- In Disney's Animated Storybook: The Lion King, she was voiced by Niketa Calame as a cub and Moira Kelly as an adult.[25][26]
- Nala was animated by the following:
- In The Lion King, she was animated by Aaron Blaise as a cub and Anthony DeRosa as an adult.[31][32]
- In The Lion King II: Simba's Pride, she was animated by Ian Harrowell.[33]
Heather Headley as adult Nala in the stage musical version of The Lion King.
- The role of Nala in the stage musical version of The Lion King was originated by Kajuana Shuford (cub) and Heather Headley (adult).[34][35]
- Nala's name means "gift" in Swahili.[36]
- In The Lion King, Nala's eyes switch between blue and green.[1] However, in The Lion King II: Simba's Pride, The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar, and The Lion Guard, they are consistently blue.[3][2][4]
- Nala is the only major character from The Lion King to not make an appearance in The Lion King's Timon & Pumbaa.[37]
- In the stage musical version of The Lion King, Nala has an additional song titled "Shadowland". She also has extra lyrics in "I Just Can't Wait to Be King".[38]
- During a Tenth Anniversary Reunion discussion panel, directors Rob Minkoff and Roger Allers were asked who Nala's father was. Minkoff joked that Allers was the father. The two directors then stated that Mufasa or Scar could be Nala's father.[39] However, the Lion Guard episode "Paintings and Predictions" revealed that Nala's father was a different lion, not Mufasa or Scar.[40]
- According to the stage musical producer, Thomas Schumacher, Nala is ten years old when she finds Simba in the jungle.[41]
- In The Lion King: Six New Adventures, Nala has a son named Kopa.[42]
In development
- In the January 1990 and May 1990 drafts of The Lion King, Nala's mother Naanda was the sister of Sarabi. Thus, Simba and Nala were cousins, and their relationship was incestuous.[45][46]
Nala's King of the Jungle design.
- In the 1992 draft of The Lion King, Scar asked Nala to be his queen, but she refused. Consequently, Scar banished her from the Pride Lands.[47] This scene was eventually added to the stage musical version of The Lion King.[38]
- In the 1992 draft of The Lion King, Nala briefly decided to remain in the jungle with Simba.[47]
- Matthew Broderick was cast as adult Simba during early production of The Lion King. He recorded his dialogue separately with another actress who was playing Nala, only to discover at the premiere that Moira Kelly had voiced Nala for the final film.[49] Kelly herself acknowledged that she was not Disney's first choice to voice Nala.[50]
- In early drafts of The Lion King II: Simba's Pride, Nala sang a lullaby to Kiara (then named Shani) called "Daddy's Little Girl".[53][54]
- In early drafts of The Lion King 1½, Nala was present in the crowd of Disney characters at the end of the film.[55]
References
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