<P> The Lion King was released on June 15 , 1994 , to a positive reaction from critics , who praised the film for its music , story , and animation . With a worldwide gross of $766 million , it finished its theatrical run as the highest - grossing release of 1994 and the second highest - grossing film of all time . It is also the highest - grossing traditionally animated film of all time . The Lion King garnered two Academy Awards for its achievement in music and the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture -- Musical or Comedy . The film has led to many derived works , such as a Broadway adaptation ; two direct - to - video follow - ups -- the sequel , The Lion King II : Simba 's Pride ( 1998 ) , and the prequel / parallel , The Lion King 11⁄2 ( 2004 ) ; two television series , Timon and Pumbaa and The Lion Guard ; and a 3D re-release , in 2011 . </P>
<P> The Lion King was released on June 15 , 1994 , to a positive reaction from critics , who praised the film for its music , story , and animation . With a worldwide gross of $766 million , it finished its theatrical run as the highest - grossing release of 1994 and the second highest - grossing film of all time . It is also the highest - grossing traditionally animated film of all time . The Lion King garnered two Academy Awards for its achievement in music and the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture -- Musical or Comedy . The film has led to many derived works , such as a Broadway adaptation ; two direct - to - video follow - ups -- the sequel , The Lion King II : Simba 's Pride ( 1998 ) , and the prequel / parallel , The Lion King 11⁄2 ( 2004 ) ; two television series , Timon and Pumbaa and The Lion Guard ; and a 3D re-release , in 2011 . </P>
when did the lion king first come out
when did the lion king first come out
June 15 , 1994
June 15 , 1994