What Happened to Jason Weaver?
Jason Weaver is an American actor and singer who rose to prominence as a child star, notably portraying a young Michael Jackson and providing the singing voice for Young Simba in Disney's 'The Lion King'. After navigating career challenges, including a period working as a chef, he has re-established himself with roles in television series like 'The Chi' and is currently venturing into new music and a talk show in 2026.
Quick Answer
Jason Weaver, known for his iconic roles as a child actor and the singing voice of Young Simba, continues to be active in entertainment. As of June 2026, he is a recurring cast member on Showtime's 'The Chi', which is in its final season. He recently announced plans to release new music and launch a talk show titled 'Leave It to Weaver'. Weaver also became a father again in late 2025 and has been reflecting on his extensive career and the evolving entertainment industry.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline16 events
Born in Chicago, Illinois
Jason Michael Weaver is born in Chicago, Illinois, to Marilyn 'Kitty' Haywood, a studio singer.
Acting Debut in 'Brewster Place'
Weaver begins his acting career with a role in Oprah Winfrey's television drama series 'Brewster Place' and also appears in 'The Kid Who Loved Christmas'.
Portrays Young Michael Jackson
Weaver gains significant recognition for his portrayal of a pre-teen Michael Jackson in the acclaimed ABC miniseries 'The Jacksons: An American Dream'.
Stars in 'Thea'
He stars as Jerome Turrell in the ABC sitcom 'Thea', alongside a young Brandy Norwood.
Singing Voice of Young Simba in 'The Lion King'
Weaver provides the singing voice for Young Simba in Disney's 'The Lion King'. His mother negotiates a deal for $100,000 plus royalties instead of a $2 million flat fee, which proves highly profitable.
Releases Debut Album 'Love Ambition'
Weaver signs with Motown Records and releases his debut studio album, 'Love Ambition', featuring singles like 'Luv Ambition (Call On Me)'.
Stars in 'Smart Guy'
He stars as Marcus Henderson, the older brother of child prodigy T.J. Henderson, in The WB sitcom 'Smart Guy'.
Appears in 'Drumline'
Weaver takes on the role of Ernest in the popular film 'Drumline', which he later expressed surprise at its massive cultural impact.
Featured on Chingy's Hit Single 'One Call Away'
He is featured as J-Weav on Chingy's commercially successful single 'One Call Away', which peaks at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Battles Depression and Works as a Chef
During the Great Recession and industry strikes, Weaver faces career struggles and depression, leading him to work as a chef to provide for his family and find a creative outlet.
Joins the Cast of 'The Chi'
Weaver joins the Lena Waithe-created Showtime drama series 'The Chi' in a recurring role as Rashaad 'Shaad' Marshall, becoming a significant part of the series.
Hosts Masterclass at South Carolina State
Weaver teams up with South Carolina State to host a three-day masterclass focused on building a lasting career in film and TV.
Welcomes Baby Boy River Jeremiah Weaver
Jason Weaver and his partner Gabby announce the birth of their baby boy, River Jeremiah Weaver.
Announces New Music and Talk Show 'Leave It to Weaver'
In an interview, Weaver reveals he is back in the studio making new music and is preparing to launch a talk show designed to spotlight Black talent and community.
Discusses Final Season of 'The Chi' and 'Smart Guy' Reboot
Weaver appears on FOX 5 Atlanta to discuss the final season of 'The Chi' and expresses his willingness for a 'Smart Guy' reboot.
Praises Jaafar Jackson's Performance in 'Michael' Biopic
Weaver, having played young Michael Jackson himself, applauds Jaafar Jackson's performance in the new 'Michael' biopic, stating he 'exceeded all expectations'.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Jason Michael Weaver, born on July 18, 1979, in Chicago, Illinois, began his entertainment career at a young age, influenced by his mother, Marilyn 'Kitty' Haywood, a studio singer. His breakthrough came in 1992 when he earned critical acclaim for portraying a pre-teen Michael Jackson in the miniseries 'The Jacksons: An American Dream'. This role was pivotal, leading to further television appearances, including the sitcom 'Thea' (1993–1994) alongside Brandy Norwood.
In 1994, Weaver secured one of his most globally recognized roles: providing the singing voice for Young Simba in Disney's animated classic 'The Lion King'. Famously, his mother, leveraging her music industry knowledge, negotiated a deal for $100,000 upfront plus royalties, rather than a flat fee of $2 million. This strategic decision proved highly lucrative, earning him significant returns over decades due to the soundtrack's enduring success. Following this, he signed with Motown Records and released his debut album, 'Love Ambition', in 1995, which spawned R&B chart hits like 'Luv Ambition (Call On Me)' and 'Stay With Me'.
Weaver continued his acting career, starring as Marcus Henderson in the popular WB sitcom 'Smart Guy' from 1997 to 1999. He also appeared in films such as 'Drumline' (2002) and 'ATL' (2006). However, like many child stars, Weaver faced challenges in his adult career. During the Great Recession and industry strikes around 2007-2009, he experienced a period of depression due to a lack of acting opportunities. During this time, he humbly pursued a creative outlet by working as a chef, learning various culinary skills.
His career saw a resurgence in recent years, notably with his recurring role as Rashaad 'Shaad' Marshall in the Showtime drama series 'The Chi', which he joined in 2021. Weaver has spoken about the show's importance in depicting a fuller picture of Chicago life. Beyond acting, he has engaged in mentorship, hosting masterclasses focused on building lasting careers in film and TV, such as one at South Carolina State in 2023.
As of June 2026, Weaver remains active and engaged in the entertainment industry. He recently discussed the final season of 'The Chi' and expressed openness to a 'Smart Guy' reboot. In May 2026, he announced plans to return to music, creating 'mature, romantic records,' and is preparing to launch a new talk show called 'Leave It to Weaver', aimed at spotlighting Black talent and community. Personally, Weaver and his partner Gabby welcomed a baby boy, River Jeremiah Weaver, in October 2025. He also recently praised Jaafar Jackson's performance in the upcoming 'Michael' biopic, reflecting on his own experience playing the King of Pop.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Jason Weaver made different choices?