John Kani
Latest News on John Kani:
David Strathairn in WAITING FOR GODOT and More Set for Guthrie Theater 26-27 Season (Mar 5, 2026)
Full Cast Set For MASTER HAROLD...AND THE BOYS at Geffen Playhouse (Jan 27, 2026)
CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY and More Set for Crossroads Theatre Company 2025/2026 Season (Aug 7, 2025)
David Strathairn in WAITING FOR GODOT and More Set for Guthrie Theater 26-27 Season (Mar 5, 2026)
Full Cast Set For MASTER HAROLD...AND THE BOYS at Geffen Playhouse (Jan 27, 2026)
CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY and More Set for Crossroads Theatre Company 2025/2026 Season (Aug 7, 2025)
BIO
Bonisile John Kani is a South African actor, author, director and playwright. He is known for portraying T'Chaka in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films Captain America: Civil War and Black Panther, Rafiki in the 2019 remake of The Lion King and Colonel Ulenga in the Netflix film Murder Mystery.
Photos
.jpg?format=auto&width=600)
Hans Zimmer, Chance The Rapper, Billy Eichner, Seth Rogen, Shahadi Wright Joseph, JD McCrary, Director/Producer Jon Favreau, Donald Glover, Beyonce Knowles-Carter, Chiwetel Ejiofor, John Kani, Alfre Woodard, Keegan-Michael Key, Florence Kasumba, and Eric Andre
Date:
07/10/2019
From: Photo Flash: See Beyonce, Donald Glover, and More on THE LION KING Red Carpet!
Writing
Playwright
Playwright
Author
Author
Awards and Nominations
Olivier Awards - 1984 - Actor of the Year in a New Play
John KaniMaster Harold And The Boys
Drama Desk Awards - 1975 - Outstanding Actor - Play
John Kani, Sizwe Banzi Is Dead
Drama Desk Awards - 1975 - Outstanding Actor - Play
John Kani, The Island
winner
Tony Awards - 1975 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
John Kani, Sizwe Banzi is Dead
winner
Tony Awards - 1975 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
John Kani, The Island
Tony Awards - 1975 - Best Play
John Kani, Sizwe Banzi is Dead
Tony Awards - 1975 - Best Play
John Kani, The Island
Videos
Video: South African Cultural Gospel Choir Performs 'Milele' From MUFASA: THE LION KING
by Josh Sharpe - 2024-12-12 13:58:58
Video: New Clip of MUFASA: THE LION KING Song by Lin-Manuel Miranda
by Josh Sharpe - 2024-12-06 17:45:57
Video: Lin-Manuel Miranda and Barry Jenkins Discuss MUFASA: THE LION KING Music
by Josh Sharpe - 2024-12-02 12:51:43
VIDEO: David Tennant and More in Royal Shakespeare Company's #ShareYourShakespeare Campaign
by Chloe Rabinowitz - 2020-04-23 03:01:00
VIDEO: THE LION KING Stars Beyonce & Donald Glover Debut 'Can You Feel The Love Tonight?' In New Teaser
by A.A. Cristi - 2019-06-20 22:32:04
VIDEO: Watch the First Teaser Trailer for the Live-Action THE LION KING - Coming in 2019!
by Robert Diamond - 2018-11-22 18:52:19
VIDEO: Who Will Have to Wait to Be King? Saturday Night Live Shares Screen Tests of THE LION KING Hopefuls
by Julie Musbach - 2017-11-12 10:12:06
News
David Strathairn in WAITING FOR GODOT and More Set for Guthrie Theater 26-27 Season
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 5, 2026
The Guthrie Theater has revealed the nine productions that will make up its 2026–2027 mainstage season. The full lineup includes Samuel Beckett’s seminal play Waiting for Godot, featuring Academy Award nominee David Strathairn and more.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 5, 2026
The Guthrie Theater has revealed the nine productions that will make up its 2026–2027 mainstage season. The full lineup includes Samuel Beckett’s seminal play Waiting for Godot, featuring Academy Award nominee David Strathairn and more.
Full Cast Set For MASTER HAROLD...AND THE BOYS at Geffen Playhouse
by Stephi Wild - Jan 27, 2026
Geffen Playhouse has announced the full cast for its upcoming production of MASTER HAROLD...AND THE BOYS, set to open in 2026. Learn more about the production and the cast here!
by Stephi Wild - Jan 27, 2026
Geffen Playhouse has announced the full cast for its upcoming production of MASTER HAROLD...AND THE BOYS, set to open in 2026. Learn more about the production and the cast here!
CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY and More Set for Crossroads Theatre Company 2025/2026 Season
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Aug 7, 2025
Crossroads Theatre Company is launching 47th season celebrating two new productions of iconic stories from the diaspora, plus more. See the full lineup and learn how to purchase tickets here!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Aug 7, 2025
Crossroads Theatre Company is launching 47th season celebrating two new productions of iconic stories from the diaspora, plus more. See the full lineup and learn how to purchase tickets here!
CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY and More Set for Crossroads 2025-2026 Season
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Aug 4, 2025
Crossroads Theatre Company is launching its 47th season celebrating two new productions of iconic stories from the diaspora, plus more. See the full lineup here and learn how to purchase tickets!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Aug 4, 2025
Crossroads Theatre Company is launching its 47th season celebrating two new productions of iconic stories from the diaspora, plus more. See the full lineup here and learn how to purchase tickets!
Interview: Writer and Performer Jack Klaff and KAFKA at 59E59 Theaters
by Marina Kennedy - Jun 17, 2025
Kafka is now on stage at 59E59 Theaters running through June 29th. Directed by Colin Watkeys and produced by Twilight Theatre Co., writer and performer Jack Klaff portrays acclaimed author Franz Kafka’s friends, lovers, and critics.
by Marina Kennedy - Jun 17, 2025
Kafka is now on stage at 59E59 Theaters running through June 29th. Directed by Colin Watkeys and produced by Twilight Theatre Co., writer and performer Jack Klaff portrays acclaimed author Franz Kafka’s friends, lovers, and critics.
Cast Set For MATILDA THE MUSICAL Jr at the People's Theatre
by Stephi Wild - Jun 3, 2025
The cast of Matilda The Musical Jr, debuting on stage at Peoples Theatre next week, are hard at work in rehearsal, excited to bring this iconic Roald Dahl classic book to life on stage for Joburg audiences for the very first time on their stage.
by Stephi Wild - Jun 3, 2025
The cast of Matilda The Musical Jr, debuting on stage at Peoples Theatre next week, are hard at work in rehearsal, excited to bring this iconic Roald Dahl classic book to life on stage for Joburg audiences for the very first time on their stage.
Royal Court Will Host A London Theatre Celebration of the Life and Work of Athol Fugard
by Stephi Wild - Apr 25, 2025
Join the Royal Court Theatre for a special evening honouring the life and legacy of Athol Fugard (11 June 1932 – 8 March 2025), South Africa’s Lifetime Achievement Tony Award-winning playwright and a towering figure in world theatre.
by Stephi Wild - Apr 25, 2025
Join the Royal Court Theatre for a special evening honouring the life and legacy of Athol Fugard (11 June 1932 – 8 March 2025), South Africa’s Lifetime Achievement Tony Award-winning playwright and a towering figure in world theatre.
Carnegie Hall Sets NYO Jazz’s Second Album 'Live in Johannesburg'
by Josh Sharpe - Apr 22, 2025
Carnegie Hall has announced the June 20, 2025 release of NYO Jazz’s first live album and second full-length album, Live in Johannesburg The album features artistic director and bandleader/trumpeter Sean Jones vocalist Alicia Olatuja, and more.
by Josh Sharpe - Apr 22, 2025
Carnegie Hall has announced the June 20, 2025 release of NYO Jazz’s first live album and second full-length album, Live in Johannesburg The album features artistic director and bandleader/trumpeter Sean Jones vocalist Alicia Olatuja, and more.
Carnegie Hall to Release New Live Album By NYO Jazz This Summer
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Apr 22, 2025
Carnegie Hall will present the release of NYO Jazz's first live album and second full-length album, Live in Johannesburg. Learn more about the upcoming album here!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Apr 22, 2025
Carnegie Hall will present the release of NYO Jazz's first live album and second full-length album, Live in Johannesburg. Learn more about the upcoming album here!
MUFASA: THE LION KING Sets Disney+ Streaming Debut
by Josh Sharpe - Mar 11, 2025
Streaming audiences around the world will experience the epic adventure, unforgettable music, and cinematic visuals of Mufasa: The Lion King when the film journeys to Disney+ on March 26.
by Josh Sharpe - Mar 11, 2025
Streaming audiences around the world will experience the epic adventure, unforgettable music, and cinematic visuals of Mufasa: The Lion King when the film journeys to Disney+ on March 26.
Review: KUNENE AND THE KING at Shakespeare Theatre Company
by Rachael F. Goldberg - Feb 24, 2025
'Kunene and the King' is a captivating and moving examination of character and society. It also feels particularly timely for American audiences to explore, while helping us all connect a bit better by urging us to truly see each other.
by Rachael F. Goldberg - Feb 24, 2025
'Kunene and the King' is a captivating and moving examination of character and society. It also feels particularly timely for American audiences to explore, while helping us all connect a bit better by urging us to truly see each other.
Photos: KUNENE AND THE KING at Shakespeare Theatre Company
by Stephi Wild - Feb 20, 2025
The U.S. premiere of John Kani’s Kunene and the King has extended its run at Shakespeare Theatre Company. Performances will now run through March 23. Plus, check out all new photos here!
by Stephi Wild - Feb 20, 2025
The U.S. premiere of John Kani’s Kunene and the King has extended its run at Shakespeare Theatre Company. Performances will now run through March 23. Plus, check out all new photos here!
KUNENE AND THE KING & More Lead Washington, DC's February 2025 Top Theatre Shows
by Team BWW - Feb 5, 2025
Washington, DC is never lacking outstanding theatre, whether epic Broadway shows, engrossing dramas or bold fringe offerings. BroadwayWorld is rounding up our top recommended theatre every month. February 2025 top picks include Kunene and the King, Schmigadoon, & more!
by Team BWW - Feb 5, 2025
Washington, DC is never lacking outstanding theatre, whether epic Broadway shows, engrossing dramas or bold fringe offerings. BroadwayWorld is rounding up our top recommended theatre every month. February 2025 top picks include Kunene and the King, Schmigadoon, & more!
MUFASA: THE LION KING Digital and Blu-ray Release Date Announced " Exclusive Bonus Content Awaits Fans!
by Josh Sharpe - Feb 3, 2025
Mufasa returns in Disney's 2024 origin story, complete with new Lin-Manuel Miranda songs. Get ready for the digital and physical release packed with exclusive bonus content, including a sing-along and deleted scenes.
by Josh Sharpe - Feb 3, 2025
Mufasa returns in Disney's 2024 origin story, complete with new Lin-Manuel Miranda songs. Get ready for the digital and physical release packed with exclusive bonus content, including a sing-along and deleted scenes.
Video: 'Bye Bye' Musical Sequence From Disney's MUFASA: THE LION KING
by Josh Sharpe - Jan 24, 2025
Disney’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” continues its reign at the top of the global box office, and now, the entire sequence featuring the villain song “Bye Bye” is viewable on DisneyMusic VEVO and YouTube.
by Josh Sharpe - Jan 24, 2025
Disney’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” continues its reign at the top of the global box office, and now, the entire sequence featuring the villain song “Bye Bye” is viewable on DisneyMusic VEVO and YouTube.
Wake Up With BroadwayWorld December 18, 2024
by - Dec 18, 2024
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is December 18, 2024 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
by - Dec 18, 2024
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is December 18, 2024 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
Review Roundup: MUFASA: THE LION KING- What Do Critics Think of the Disney Prequel?
by Josh Sharpe - Dec 17, 2024
Find out what critics think of Mufasa: The Lion King, Disney's new prequel film featuring original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda and a voice cast that includes Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., John Kani, Seth Rogan, Billy Eichner, Anika Noni Rose, and more.
by Josh Sharpe - Dec 17, 2024
Find out what critics think of Mufasa: The Lion King, Disney's new prequel film featuring original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda and a voice cast that includes Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., John Kani, Seth Rogan, Billy Eichner, Anika Noni Rose, and more.
MUFASA: THE LION KING Soundtrack Featuring Lin-Manuel Miranda's Songs Now Streaming
by Josh Sharpe - Dec 13, 2024
Disney's Mufasa: The Lion King, featuring all-new songs from Broadway songwriter, Lin-Manuel Miranda, is now available to stream. The album includes newly written songs for the film, including Milele, I Always Wanted a Brother, and Tell Me It's You, performed by the cast. Listen to it now!
by Josh Sharpe - Dec 13, 2024
Disney's Mufasa: The Lion King, featuring all-new songs from Broadway songwriter, Lin-Manuel Miranda, is now available to stream. The album includes newly written songs for the film, including Milele, I Always Wanted a Brother, and Tell Me It's You, performed by the cast. Listen to it now!
Video: South African Cultural Gospel Choir Performs 'Milele' From MUFASA: THE LION KING
by Josh Sharpe - Dec 12, 2024
Earlier this week, the South African Cultural Gospel Choir performed 'Milele', one of the captivating new songs from the all-new Mufasa: The Lion King soundtrack by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Watch their performance now!
by Josh Sharpe - Dec 12, 2024
Earlier this week, the South African Cultural Gospel Choir performed 'Milele', one of the captivating new songs from the all-new Mufasa: The Lion King soundtrack by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Watch their performance now!
MUFASA: THE LION KING Pays Tribute to James Earl Jones in Opening Credits
by Josh Sharpe - Dec 10, 2024
In the new Lion King prequel, director Barry Jenkins paid tribute to James Earl Jones during the opening credits. The late performer voiced the role in the original 1994 animated film and the 2019 remake.
by Josh Sharpe - Dec 10, 2024
In the new Lion King prequel, director Barry Jenkins paid tribute to James Earl Jones during the opening credits. The late performer voiced the role in the original 1994 animated film and the 2019 remake.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many Broadway shows has John Kani been in?
John Kani has appeared on Broadway in 2 shows.
How many West End shows has John Kani been in?
John Kani has not appeared in the West End.
What awards has John Kani been nominated for?
Actor of the Year in a New Play (Olivier Awards) for Master Harold And The Boys, Outstanding Actor - Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Sizwe Banzi Is Dead , Outstanding Actor - Play (Drama Desk Awards) for The Island, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for Sizwe Banzi is Dead, Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for The Island, Best Play (Tony Awards) for Sizwe Banzi is Dead and Best Play (Tony Awards) for The Island.
What awards has John Kani won?
John Kani has won the Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play for his roles in Sizwe Banzi is Dead and The Island.
How many shows has John Kani written?
John Kani has written 2 shows including Sizwe Banzi Is Dead (Playwright), The Island (Playwright).
Videos