Circle of Life begins with the Zulu-language lyrics: “Nants ingonyama bagithi Baba Sithi uhm ingonyama.”

According to Disney’s official translation, the English meaning of these words is: “All hail the king, we all bow in the presence of the king.”

However, the Zulu word ingonyama – which Disney translates to “the king” – can also literally mean “lion”.

Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Mwanyenyeka, also known as Learnmore Jonasi, poked fun at the lyrics on a podcast, translating them as simply: “Look, there’s a lion. Oh my god.”

Lebohang Morake, who wrote and performed the words in question, alleges that Jonasi’s joke damaged his reputation and business relationship with Disney.

The comedian is alleged to have told a similar joke during a stand-up routine which Morake says drew a “standing ovation”.

Morake is now seeking $20 million in actual damages and a further $7 million in punitive damages in a civil suit filed in Los Angeles – roughly €23.4 million or £20.2 million.

Jonasi has turned to crowdfunding to seek his legal defence and had raised over $10,000 from more than 400 people as of time of publication.