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A Tribute to Josef the Lion

Josef, the famed lion who was the model for Disney’s animated film, “The Lion King,” died of old age—23—in July 2008.  Prior to being the model for Mufasa in “The Lion King”, Josef appeared in “George of the Jungle,” and was one of the original MGM lions.Charlie Sammut, owner of “Wild Things Animal Rentals” in Salinas, California, wrote a poignant message about his special friend Josef which the film commission wanted to share to honor the passing of one of our most famous local “celebrities.”

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I did lose a very special friend in Josef.  I have to get used to the idea that I have to move forward without him, for we started the company together.  In short, I can say without a doubt I attribute our entire existence to Josef and the work he was able to do due to his extremely unique and gentle nature.

Josef saw more in life than any other lion could ever image.  He and I traveled together to Canada, Mexico, Africa, Germany and almost every state in the U.S., filming movies and commercials.  But at every location, I always found time to turn him loose and let him benefit from not being a typical zoo lion. I trusted Josef with my most precious treasures, my kids, in many shows.  I think our proudest moment was seeing the results of the project for which Josef modeled for three years—“The Lion King.” 

I knew this day would come and I’ve been watching Josef grow older for the past year, but as hard as I tried, I guess I wasn’t ready to lose him.  He is buried at the entrance of the ranch where I visit him often as does my staff and family. He started this entire project and it seemed fitting he be buried at the front of it.  I am a bit mystic about death, so I live on knowing he is still with me on the ranch and I will see him again one day.”

  –Charlie Sammut