David Oyelowo to play Scar in The Lion Guard

Be prepared for the return of Scar.

Simba’s big bad uncle is heading to season 2 of The Lion Guard, Disney Junior’s epic series continuation of The Lion King, and this time around, the iconic villain will be voiced by Golden Globe-nominated actor David Oyelowo (Selma, A United Kingdom). Jeremy Irons voiced the reprobate lion in the 1994 movie.

Obviously, there’s one key question to be asked: How would Scar, who ended his screentime in the original film at the clawed mercy of his angry band of hyenas, be able to turn up now? The character will appear on The Lion Guard in the flames of a volcano, summoned by grandnephew Kion (Simba and Nala’s son) after he unintentionally calls Scar by invoking the powerful Roar of the Elders during a fit of anger.

“The Rise of Scar” will premiere July 29, shortly after the series’ second season premieres on July 7. Other guest stars to expect this season — alongside returning cast members like Rob Lowe, Gabrielle Union, and Max Charles — include Renee Elise Goldsberry (as a zebra!), Christopher Jackson (as a gorilla!), Common (as a crocodile!), AJ McLean (as a golden mole!), and Sinbad (as Uroho, a comedic baboon!).

Note: Oyelowo’s casting, though perfect, is not to be confused with Disney’s upcoming remake of The Lion King, which has yet to announce its Scar face.

The Lion Guard comes from Disney Television Animation by way of executive producer Ford Riley, co-EP Howy Parkins, composer Christopher Willis, songwriter Beau Black, and author/cultural advisor Sarah Mirza.