The hornbill who serves as Mufasa’s aide in Disney’s 1994 animated film The Lion King is Zazu.
Zazu is a red-billed hornbill and the Pride Lands’ majordomo, a senior household official who assists the king. He keeps Mufasa informed about events across the kingdom, helps oversee Simba, and often provides a cautious counterpoint to the young prince’s impulsiveness.
The character is voiced by British actor Rowan Atkinson, best known to many viewers as Mr. Bean and for Blackadder. Zazu’s comic personality comes from his formal manners, nervous temperament, and tendency to deliver reports even when the situation is chaotic. His relationship with Mufasa is professional but familiar, while Scar frequently mocks and mistreats him after taking power.
A common mix-up is confusing Zazu with Rafiki, who is the mandrill and spiritual adviser, or with Timon, Simba’s meerkat friend. Zazu also remains an adviser under Simba after the young lion becomes king.