- Simba: A lion who is the protagonist of the story and the rightful king of Pride Rock.
- Mufasa: Simba's father and the wise and powerful king of Pride Rock.
- Sarabi: Simba's mother and the queen of Pride Rock.
- Nala: Simba's childhood friend and later his wife.
- Scar: Simba's evil uncle and the antagonist of the story.
- Timon and Pumbaa: A meerkat and a warthog who become Simba's friends and teach him about the "Hakuna Matata" lifestyle.
- Zazu: A hornbill who serves as the majordomo of Pride Rock.
- Rafiki: A wise and spiritual baboon who guides Simba on his journey.
- Hyenas: A group of scavengers who are led by Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed.
- Elephants: A group of wise and powerful animals who appear in the film's opening sequence.
- Giraffes: A group of graceful and long-necked animals who are seen in the film's opening sequence.
- Zebras: A group of black-and-white striped animals who are seen in the film's opening sequence.