Lebo M issues a statement regarding the dismissed case against comedian Learnmore Jonasi.
South African musician Lebo M has confirmed the end of his legal proceedings against Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Jonasi. The lawsuit originated from a humorous comment about the initial chant heard in Disney’s The Lion King.
In a statement dated October 20, 2026, Lebo M Productions discussed the dismissal of the lawsuit. Furthermore, they noted a US court ruling obliging Lebohang Morake, professionally known as Lebo M, to compensate Jonasi with $39,560 for legal fees.
The contention revolved around how the Zulu lyrics “Nants’ Ingonyama”, present in the introduction of the film, are interpreted.
Origins of the dispute
In February 2026, Jonasi commented on the chant during his guest appearance on the One54 Africa podcast, humorously suggesting it meant “Look, there’s a lion. Oh my god.”
The Lion King producer Lebo M disagreed with the comedic interpretation, expressing concerns about the cultural implications of the lyrics.
In March, he initiated a $27 million lawsuit in California, citing defamation along with trademark infringement. It was stated that the figure was symbolic of Nelson Mandela’s 27 years of incarceration.
Jonasi’s legal team countered the lawsuit by invoking California’s anti-SLAPP statute, which allows for challenging certain claims concerning protected speech.
The case was ultimately withdrawn and dismissed in July 2026, as detailed in the statement from Lebo M Productions.
Court mandates $39,560 for attorney fees
On August 28, 2026, the US District Court granted an order awarding Jonasi $39,560 in legal fees, in accordance with California Code of Civil Procedure section 425.16(c).
Lebo M Productions confirmed that the amount had been fully paid.
In their statement, the company noted that Jonasi’s fee application had also requested an additional sum of approximately $91,000 via a proposed multiplier, which the court did not grant.
The award of attorney fees is separate from any verdict on the main allegations. The statement from the company further clarifies that the court did not make any conclusive rulings on the differing interpretations of the lyrics.
Company clarifies stance on withdrawal
Lebo M remarked that the lawsuit was withdrawn without prejudice as they reassess their legal representation and weigh their options.
What are the implications?
A withdrawal without prejudice generally allows for a claim to be refiled, subject to relevant procedural rules, statutes of limitations, and other legal stipulations.
The company also accused a prior legal counsel of making court submissions without authorization. This claim was included in the company’s statement and should not be viewed as an established judicial determination.
Jonasi asserts that his interpretation of the lyrics is accurate and emphasizes that he is conversational in Zulu, having lived in South Africa. Moreover, he mentioned to podcaster Mac G that he is currently in a relationship with a South African.
