Lebo M Files US$20 Million Lawsuit Against Zimbabwean Comedian Learnmore Jonasi Over Viral “Lion King” Chant Joke

Lebo M Files US$20 Million Lawsuit Against Zimbabwean Comedian Learnmore Jonasi Over Viral “Lion King” Chant Joke – Renowned South African composer and producer Lebohang ‘Lebo M’ Morake has filed a US$20 million (approximately R370 million) lawsuit in a United States court against Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Mwanyenyeka Jonasi following a viral social media video.

The legal action stems from a clip in which Jonasi humorously misinterpreted the meaning of the phrase “Nants’ Ingonyama,” the iconic opening chant from the song Circle of Life featured in The Lion King.

The video quickly gained traction online, sparking widespread debate among audiences regarding cultural understanding and translation.

In response, Lebo M expressed concern over what he described as a misrepresentation of African cultural heritage.

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He emphasised that the chant was recorded as “Praise Imbongi,” a form of royal praise conveyed through metaphor.

“I recorded ‘Nants’ Ingonyama’ as Praise Imbongi – Royal Praise in metaphor. It is a declaration of kingship and ancestral authority. African language carries weight, spirituality and history, and I will always stand in protection of its dignity,” he said.

The composer further highlighted that the official contextual translation of the chant was published in the liner notes of the 2019 soundtrack release, offering clarity on its meaning and reinforcing its spiritual and symbolic significance.

For more than three decades, the opening chant of The Lion King has served as a powerful introduction of authentic African vocal tradition to global audiences. Lebo M noted that attempts to reinterpret the chant outside its cultural framework undermine both documented translations and the lived traditions from which it originates.

In a statement issued through his publicist, Lebo M maintained that while open dialogue is encouraged, the distortion of cultural meaning is unacceptable.

“We welcome discussion, but not the erosion of cultural literacy. Lebo M did not simply perform a song—he introduced African language and royal praise in metaphor to the global cinematic archive. That is not viral content; that is history. As custodians of legacy, we will always choose education over outrage and elevation over noise,” the statement read.