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Randy Rainbow Roars Back with “Lion King” Parody Targeting Trump’s Political Ambitions
READ TIME: 5 MIN.
After several months away from political parody, acclaimed comedian and singer Randy Rainbow has returned to the spotlight with a new viral video, “He Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” a pointed musical spoof targeting former President Donald Trump’s recent maneuvers and public statements. Rainbow’s parody adapts the beloved Elton John and Tim Rice song from Disney’s The Lion King, using the familiar melody to lampoon Trump’s rhetoric around his legal troubles, his handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files, and his suggestions about a potential third presidential term—an idea that is not constitutionally permitted in the United States .
In the video, Rainbow dons colorful regalia reminiscent of the Lion King’s animated royalty, singing lines such as, “He’s gonna be a lyin’ king, this autocratic turd. His second term is just the start, he’s thinking about a third. He’s shutting down all scrutiny, the fourth estate is done. He’s acting extra-Putin-y, I’m calling 9-1-1. Democracy is dangling by a string. Cause he just can’t wait to be king,” addressing both the former president’s ambitions and the broader concerns for American democracy .
Randy Rainbow’s latest parody is not just a return to form—it is a reaffirmation of his unique role in political satire, especially within LGBTQ+ communities. Rainbow, a four-time Emmy nominee and New York Times bestselling author, has built a career on using musical theater as both a creative outlet and a tool for social commentary. His YouTube series, “The Randy Rainbow Show,” has consistently blended Broadway show tunes with sharp political humor, resonating with LGBTQ+ audiences who often see their own experiences reflected in themes of resistance, resilience, and camp .
In interviews and his memoir, “Playing with Myself,” Rainbow has spoken candidly about how musical theater provided a refuge during his youth and helped shape his comedic voice. His latest children’s book, “Randy Rainbow and the Marvelously Magical Pink Glasses,” set for release later this year, continues this tradition of affirming LGBTQ+ identities through humor and storytelling .
Rainbow’s “He Just Can’t Wait to Be King” specifically mocks Trump’s reversal on releasing the Jeffrey Epstein files—a topic that has generated significant controversy. The parody references the administration’s prior promotion of the files as potentially damaging to political opponents, and Trump’s subsequent claim that the files were a “hoax,” angering many of his supporters and drawing suspicion from across the political spectrum .
The video, produced with frequent collaborators Michael J Moritz Jr and Brett Boles, was posted to Rainbow’s official channels and rapidly gained traction both on YouTube and Instagram, where the clip accumulated over 18,000 likes and 330 comments in less than 24 hours . Social media users praised Rainbow’s wit and musicality, with many LGBTQ+ fans noting that his blend of humor and activism continues to offer much-needed levity and critical perspective during a turbulent political climate.
Rainbow’s ability to repurpose classic show tunes for biting political satire has earned him widespread acclaim and a devoted following among LGBTQ+ people and allies. His parodies are not merely entertainment; they serve as cultural commentary, using the universal language of music and comedy to highlight issues of authoritarianism, media suppression, and the importance of democratic institutions .
The release of “He Just Can’t Wait to Be King” follows Rainbow’s previous parodies such as “Defy Democracy” (inspired by Wicked) and “Fees, Fees, Fees” (inspired by Sabrina Carpenter), both of which addressed recent political controversies with his signature blend of flamboyance and incisive humor . In each, Rainbow uses his platform to encourage viewers—particularly LGBTQ+ audiences—to remain informed and engaged, underscoring the role of satire in challenging power and uplifting marginalized voices.
LGBTQ+ organizations and media outlets have highlighted Rainbow’s latest parody as an example of how queer artists use creative expression to foster community, resilience, and political awareness. By weaving together familiar cultural references and current events, Rainbow’s work exemplifies the enduring tradition of queer satire as both protest and celebration.
As political tensions remain high leading into the next election cycle, Rainbow’s “He Just Can’t Wait to Be King” stands as a reminder of the power of laughter, art, and community in holding leaders accountable and imagining a more inclusive future .
