Advertisement
Step into the enchanting world of The Lion King, where animals talk, sing, and bring joy to audiences of all ages. In the 1990s, Nathan Lane and Ernie Sabella embarked on a remarkable journey as they lent their voices to two iconic characters: Timon the meerkat and Pumbaa the warthog. Little did they know, they were about to breathe life into these beloved animated figures, forever etching their names in Disney history.
But amidst the laughter and camaraderie of their recording sessions, there emerged an unexpected star: Pumbaa’s unforgettable flatulent noises. In a delightful revelation shared with Entertainment Weekly, Lane and Sabella unveiled the amusing tale behind Pumbaa’s iconic flatulence.
Believe it or not, Pumbaa’s gas-passing prowess wasn’t part of the original script. It all began during their recording sessions, which coincided with their work on the Broadway revival of Guys and Dolls in 1992. In those early morning sessions, as fatigue threatened to dull the atmosphere, Sabella, in his infinite wisdom, sought to lighten the mood in the most unconventional way—by unleashing a symphony of funny farting noises.
“While he was doing his dialogue, he would make fart sounds to make me laugh,” Lane fondly reminisced. Sabella, ever the entertainer, confessed to his mischievous motives, admitting, “I just started making these sounds as he was reading his lines. He kept laughing and telling me to stop. But I kept doing it.”
Yet, Timon and Pumbaa were not merely characters—they were reflections of the dynamic duo that brought them to life. Initially, Lane and Sabella weren’t the first choices for these roles. However, their impeccable chemistry and natural comedic timing during auditions caught the eye of Disney executives, who saw in them the perfect embodiment of Timon and Pumbaa.
Remarkably, they made history by becoming the first duo to record all their lines together for a Disney film. Their infectious laughter echoed through the studio, infusing every scene with warmth and humor. From that moment on, Timon and Pumbaa became synonymous with Lane and Sabella, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide.
As we celebrate 30 years of The Lion King, we honor the timeless legacy of this animated masterpiece. From its humble beginnings to its enduring popularity, The Lion King continues to reign supreme, enchanting new generations and reminding us of the power of friendship, laughter, and the circle of life. So let’s raise a toast to Simba, Mufasa, Timon, Pumbaa, and the countless memories they’ve bestowed upon us all. Long live The Lion King!