Lin-Manuel Miranda’s EGOT Dreams Halted by the Oscars, for Now

This year’s Oscars have unfortunately dashed Lin-Manuel Miranda’s aspirations to achieve EGOT status, particularly through his contributions to Mufasa: The Lion King. As a follow-up to the beloved original, this film has maintained a strong presence at the box office. However, it has fallen short in garnering the awards attention that the 2019 remake had, particularly in the visual effects category. The most promising possibility for Miranda at the Academy Awards was his original music, which highlighted the film.

Although Mufasa: The Lion King was one of the few Disney films shortlisted for this year’s Academy Awards, it offered Miranda a golden opportunity to realize one of the entertainment industry’s most challenging achievements. Unfortunately, following the announcement of the 97th Academy Awards nominations, those dreams have been thwarted. As a result, Miranda will need to wait for another opportunity to pursue this prestigious honor.

Lin-Manuel Miranda Misses Out on Oscar Nomination for Mufasa: The Lion King

Mufasa: The Lion King Was Shortlisted for Best Original Song but Did Not Receive a Nomination

Although Miranda may one day secure an EGOT title, this Oscars cycle marked another missed opportunity. Following successful collaborations on Disney’s Moana and Encanto, Miranda contributed original songs to Mufasa: The Lion King, aiming to carry forward the legacy of the original film, which won an Oscar for Best Original Song with “Can You Feel The Love Tonight.”One of his entries, “Tell Me It’s You, ”was recognized in the shortlisting process.

Best Original Songs Nominees	Song	Film
Elton John, Brandi Carlile, Bernie Taupin & Watt	“Never Too Late”	Elton John: Never Too Late
Jacques Audiard, Camille & Clément Ducol	“The Evil”	Emilia Perez
Camille & Clement Ducol	“My Way”	Emilia Perez
Abraham Alexander & Adrian Quesada	“Like a Bird”	Sing Sing
Diane Warren	“The Journey”	The Six Triple Eight

“Tell Me It’s You, ”performed by Mufasa and Sarabi, was expected to evoke the same emotional connection as “Can You Feel The Love Tonight.”However, fierce competition loomed from established names, including EGOT winner Elton John, whose storied career includes an Oscar for his work on the original The Lion King. Consequently, Miranda joined a long list of notable artists who did not receive a nomination this year, with the spotlight instead shining on songs by Emilia Pérez and John.

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Path to EGOT: Just One Oscar Away

Miranda’s Accolades Include Tony, Emmy, and Grammy Awards

Despite his setbacks in the Oscars race, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s interdisciplinary talent has won him numerous awards, including Tonys, Emmys, and Grammys. He stands among the select few who are three-quarters of the way to EGOT status. Recognized for his work on groundbreaking musicals like Hamilton, Miranda clinched both a Tony and Grammy for the production. Additionally, a filmed version available on Disney+ earned him a Primetime Emmy.

Miranda has faced challenges in the Academy Awards realm with two previous nominations for Best Original Song. Unfortunately, “How Far I’ll Go”from Moana and “Dos Oruguitas”from Encanto did not secure wins in 2017 and 2022. With “Tell Me It’s You”failing to achieve the same recognition, he will have to wait for his next opportunity to realize an EGOT.

What Could Lin-Manuel Miranda Win an Oscar For in the Future?

No Major Films Currently on His Schedule

Given his continued youthful creativity and high productivity, new avenues for Miranda to pursue an Oscar are likely to emerge. However, looking at his current slate, there’s limited immediate opportunity. The only film in development listed on IMDB is The Making Of, alongside notable actors Richard Gere, Diane Keaton, and Blake Lively, but it has been in limbo since its 2020 announcement.

Miranda’s next confirmed venture, however, appears promising. Following the success of a concept album in 2024, the musical adaptation of Warriors is slated to transition into a full stage play. There is potential for a future film adaptation of the Walter Hill original that could feature new original songs by Miranda, positioning him once again as a potential Oscar contender. Additionally, he may continue his prolific collaboration with Disney, further enhancing his chances in the realm of animated feature nominations. While Lin-Manuel Miranda is poised for a future EGOT, it won’t be through Mufasa: The Lion King.

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