Clifton Oliver, Broadway Actor Who Starred as Simba in ‘The Lion King,’ Dies at Age 47

Broadway mourns the loss of Clifton Oliver, a renowned stage actor known for his performances in “The Lion King” and other hit productions. The news of his passing was confirmed by family and friends through heartfelt social media posts.

Clifton Oliver, aged 47, succumbed to an undisclosed illness in the early hours of Wednesday morning, as revealed in a Facebook post by his sister, Roxy Hall. She shared that Oliver spent his final six weeks in a hospital bed, and his last moments were described as “peaceful.” His partner, Richard, was by his side, singing the song Psalm 23 as he took his last breath.

Born on December 3, 1975, in Jacksonville, Florida, Clifton Oliver made a significant mark in the Broadway theatre community. In 2010, he made the move to New York City to pursue a career on the grand Broadway stage. His exceptional talent was showcased in various productions, most notably Simba in “The Lion King,” which stands as the highest-grossing Broadway show of all time.

In addition to “The Lion King,” Clifton Oliver’s talents graced other iconic Broadway shows, including “Wicked” and “In the Heights.” His performances garnered admiration and applause from audiences far and wide.

The Broadway community came together to pay tribute to the late actor, sharing commemorative posts on social media platforms. ‘The Lion King’ official Instagram page, ‘Our Pride,’ shared heartfelt sentiments, remembering Clifton Oliver’s legacy and the light he brought to the stage in various cities, including Broadway, Las Vegas, and North American tour stops.

To honour the profound impact Clifton Oliver had on the theatre world, the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City will dim its lights at 5 p.m. ET on Tuesday, August 8. This symbolic gesture serves as a testament to his enduring legacy as a talented and beloved member of the Broadway community.

As Broadway mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, the memory of Clifton Oliver’s remarkable performances will live on in the hearts of theatre enthusiasts worldwide. His contributions to the stage have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations of aspiring actors and reminding the world of the power of art and storytelling on Broadway’s grandest stages.