North West, the eldest daughter of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, recently made headlines for her performance as Simba at the Hollywood Bowl during the 30th Anniversary concert of The Lion King. While the event featured numerous notable performers, North’s inclusion sparked significant controversy and criticism, primarily centered around allegations of nepotism.
Kardashian, who openly shares her family’s life on the reality show The Kardashians, expressed her concerns leading up to the performance. During the show, she confides to her sister Khloe about the pressures and the intense scrutiny North would face. "I really wasn’t planning on being a momager for, like, another 10 years!" she lamented, highlighting her recognition of the challenges balancing her career and motherhood.
The anticipation surrounding North’s performance was palpable. After rehearsing for just four days, she took the stage on May 2023 to sing the iconic song, "I Just Can't Wait to Be King." Kardashian noted how relaxed her daughter appeared, stating, "It's such a proud moment as a mom to see your child have so much fun and not be nervous at all. She's so proud of herself. She did such a great job. And anyone who is hATING on a kid is just like, a hater! She's not there to be Mariah Carey." Kim’s protective instincts shone through as she defended North against any criticism related to her performance.
The public reaction was mixed. While many praised North's spirited performance, others pointedly critiqued it, citing allegations of nepotism due to her parents’ celebrity status. Many claimed her participation was more about who her parents are than any singing talent of her own. One social media user voiced, "North West would probably be great as the lead in a high school production of The Lion King but for a 30th anniversary concert, it's a bit embarrassing. The nepotism was clear, and you could see and hear the lack of rehearsal."
Responding to the backlash, Kim matriarch took to her show to address the naysayers directly, stating passionately, "I already know what’s coming, you know, she’s not Whitney Houston! Duh! I know she got the job because of her parents. North is the moment! They want to see North West on TikTok, on this, on anything, because she’s a personality, a performer. And if anyone wants to hate on a child that's having the time of their lives, F--- you!" Such assertiveness from the reality star showcased not only her support for North but her fierce dedication as a mother defending her child against vitriol.
Notably, Kanye West also played his role during this dynamic family moment, supporting North through rehearsals and providing valuable input on the production's graphics. The two ex-spouses maintained their commitment as co-parents, collaborating to create the best experience for North. Kim said, "Anytime we’re here supporting our child, it’s always good vibes.” Their unity during this cherished moment stands as evidence of their cooperative co-parenting strategies.
While it’s easy for outsiders to speculate whether North should have received such opportunities at her young age, the reality remains: North enjoys being on stage and entertaining. Jason Weaver, who once voiced Simba himself, praised North on social media, saying, "What an honor it is to share the same stage with this young superstar! I’m so PROUD of you North!! You’re doing such PHENOMENAL job in this show!" Such endorsements reflect the spirit of support and encouragement present within the entertainment community.
Despite the critiques thrown her way, North West's performance encapsulates the spirit of childhood joy and creativity—something cherished, regardless of lineage. For Kim Kardashian, witnessing North shine on stage is not just fulfilling; it’s also thought-provoking as she navigates her own identity as both the star mother and momager. She continues to walk the tightrope of her family's entertainment expectations and the innate desire to protect her children's innocence, all the time aware of her legacy and how it influences her daughter's career moves.
Through it all, the Kardashian family models how to maintain familial bonds amid public scrutiny. North's moment as Simba reminds us of the complex layers of fame, parental love, and the challenges of growing up under the media’s watchful eye.