'The Lion King' Officially Dated for Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D!

The Disney classic will not only roar onto Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D this fall, but will also return to theaters for a limited time only!

As previously reported, Disney/Buena Vista will be bringing the long-awaited animated triumph 'The Lion King' to high-definition later this year -- and now the official date is October 4.

'The Lion King - 3D' (4-disc combo pack) and an 8-disc 'The Lion King Trilogy' (which also includes the sequels) will also be available.

Simba, Mufasa, Nala, Timon and Pumbaa are back and better than ever this fall when a special two-week theatrical extravaganza kicks off Sept. 16, 2011, showcasing the Oscar® and Golden Globe®-winning film on the big screen in Disney Digital 3D™ for the first time ever, followed by the home video release a few weeks later.

“‘The Lion King’ is the best-selling home entertainment release of all time—and this is ‘The Lion King’ like never before,” said Bob Chapek, president of distribution, The Walt Disney Studios. “The all-new 3D format immerses viewers in the epic settings and puts them face-to-face with these beloved characters. We’re showcasing one of the all-time favorite Disney movies in theaters and making it available in Blu-ray hi-def and in Blu-ray 3D—it’s the must-see, must-own title for everyone.”

Nearly a decade since “The Lion King” last appeared on the big screen, the upcoming theatrical release invites new generations into the “Circle of Life.” The two-week, 3D-only presentation is a planned wide domestic release—the biggest since the film’s 1994 debut—and the film’s first-ever 3D release.

The Blu-ray debut marks the first time “The Lion King” has been available in any form since 2004. Featuring pristine high definition picture and sound, the Blu-ray creates an incredible at-home experience with a host of picture and sound enhancements, interactive features and bonus content, including a new set of hilarious animated bloopers.

Full specs and details are still forthcoming, but suggested list price for 'The Lion King' on Blu-ray is $39.99, 'The Lion King - 3D' is $49.99, and the 8-disc 'The Lion King Trilogy' is $100.

You can find the latest specs for 'The Lion King' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it is indexed under October 4.