Jason Weaver Net Worth
Jason Weaver is a multi-talented American actor, singer, and voice artist best known for his iconic work as the singing voice of young Simba in Disney’s The Lion King (1994), as well as his starring role as Marcus on the hit TV sitcom Smart Guy. With a career that spans over three decades, Jason has become a respected figure in the entertainment industry thanks to his unique voice, acting skills, and his strategic choices regarding long-term financial growth.
Weaver started his career as a child actor in the late 1980s and early 1990s, quickly rising to fame with his role as a young Michael Jackson in The Jacksons: An American Dream, followed by a memorable run on the family-friendly Smart Guy. But arguably his most lasting impact came from his work with Disney—specifically his performance in The Lion King, which has earned him enduring recognition and wealth.
Throughout his career, Jason has been smart about his financial decisions. One of the most famous stories about him involves turning down a one-time lump sum payment for The Lion King in favor of royalties—an unconventional move that ultimately proved extremely profitable. That decision alone has played a significant role in his sustained financial success, even though he never pursued the same hyper-visible celebrity path as many of his peers.
In this full-length feature, we explore Jason Weaver’s net worth, career, family background, his role as Simba, current life, and more.
As of 2025, Jason Weaver’s estimated net worth is between $4 million and $7 million. While he may not have the towering net worth of some of his contemporaries, Jason’s wealth is impressive given his focus on long-term financial stability over headline-making fame.
Key contributors to his net worth:
- The Lion King Royalties
Jason Weaver is widely admired for his savvy decision to decline a $2 million lump sum for The Lion King and instead negotiate a royalty deal. This move allowed him to earn consistent income for decades. In a 2019 interview, Weaver revealed that his mother negotiated a deal that included royalties on music and home video sales, which has continued to pay dividends as The Lion King remains one of Disney’s most profitable properties. - Television and Film Roles
Roles on shows like Smart Guy, Thea, and movies like Drumline and ATL have added to his income. While not blockbuster salaries, these roles provided regular work and long-term relevance. - Music Career
Jason released R&B music under Motown Records and collaborated with artists like Chingy on the hit single “One Call Away.” While he didn’t achieve major success in the music world, his voice remains his most valuable asset. - Voice Work and Residuals
As a voice actor, he has continued to collect residuals, particularly from The Lion King, as well as from other shows and animated projects. - Smart Investments
Though relatively private about his financial portfolio, Jason has hinted in interviews that he made wise investments, especially in real estate and passive income-generating ventures.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Jason Michael Weaver |
| Date of Birth | July 18, 1979 |
| Place of Birth | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actor, Singer, Voice Artist |
| Known For | The Lion King, Smart Guy, ATL |
| Marital Status | Married (wife not publicly known) |
| Children | One son |
| Estimated Net Worth | $4 million – $7 million |
| Education | Thornwood High School, Illinois |
| Years Active | 1990–present |
Early Life and Background Education
Jason Weaver was born on July 18, 1979, in Chicago, Illinois. From a young age, he was surrounded by music and performance. His mother, Kitty Haywood, is a respected music industry veteran and part of the vocal group Kitty & the Haywoods, which provided background vocals for artists like Aretha Franklin and Curtis Mayfield. This musical environment had a profound impact on Jason’s artistic development.
With his mother’s industry connections and encouragement, Jason began acting in the late 1980s. His first major role came in 1990 on the sitcom Brewster Place, produced by Oprah Winfrey. His early schooling was done in Illinois, and he graduated from Thornwood High School while balancing acting jobs and music training.
Despite his early fame, Jason’s upbringing was grounded, thanks to his mother’s insistence on prioritizing education and long-term thinking. That practical mindset helped shape Jason into a thoughtful performer who never chased fame recklessly, opting instead for smart, sustainable choices.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Jason Weaver is 45 years old. Over the years, he has maintained a youthful appearance and remains in good physical condition. He stands approximately 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) tall, with a medium build and expressive features that have made him a natural fit for both screen and stage roles.
Jason is known for his soulful eyes, vibrant smile, and calm demeanor—traits that have helped him maintain a likeable public image for decades. He often sports a well-groomed beard and casual, stylish attire. He tends to keep a relatively low profile on social media, but when he does appear publicly, he is always well put-together and respectful of his audience.
His Father
Jason’s father’s identity has not been widely publicized, and he has largely stayed out of the spotlight. Most of the focus in Jason’s upbringing has been on his mother, Kitty Haywood, who was instrumental in shaping both his career and his values.
There is little publicly available information about Jason’s relationship with his father, suggesting that either the relationship was private or minimal during his formative years.
His Mother
Kitty Haywood, Jason Weaver’s mother, is a cornerstone figure in his life and career. She is a talented singer and music professional who was part of the R&B vocal group Kitty & the Haywoods. With her industry experience, Kitty played a crucial role in Jason’s entry into entertainment.
She was also the strategic force behind one of Jason’s most famous financial decisions—turning down Disney’s one-time payment for The Lion King and negotiating for royalties instead. Jason has frequently credited her for that decision, stating that it has paid off over the decades and set him up for long-term financial stability.
Kitty was also deeply involved in managing Jason’s career in his early years, guiding him through contracts, appearances, and media training.
Children
Jason Weaver is the proud father of one son, although he keeps details about his child out of the public eye. He has spoken lovingly about his son in interviews, emphasizing how fatherhood changed his perspective on life, fame, and legacy.
While he has chosen not to share many details—such as his son’s name or age—Jason often mentions that his son is a driving force in his life and part of the reason he continues to work and invest wisely.
Who Is Jason Weaver?
Jason Weaver is a versatile entertainer with a remarkable career that spans acting, voice work, and music. He began his career as a child actor and quickly transitioned into iconic roles, most notably as:
- Young Michael Jackson in The Jacksons: An American Dream (1992), a widely praised mini-series.
- Singing voice of Young Simba in Disney’s The Lion King (1994).
- Marcus Henderson in Smart Guy (1997–1999), a fan-favorite sitcom that aired on The WB.
As a musician, he released an R&B album in the mid-1990s and later found success with the hit 2004 single “One Call Away” with Chingy. While he didn’t pursue a full-time music career, his singing voice remains one of his defining features.
Jason Weaver has also appeared in supporting roles in several notable films, including:
- Drumline (2002)
- ATL (2006)
- Lottery Ticket (2010)
What sets Jason apart is his strategic mindset and humility. Unlike many child stars, he successfully transitioned to adulthood without scandals or major setbacks. His role as Simba continues to generate royalty income, making him a rare example of a child actor who cashed in not just on fame, but on smart decisions.
Current Life
In 2025, Jason Weaver continues to maintain a balanced lifestyle that includes occasional film and television roles, voice acting projects, and business ventures. While he’s not as prominently featured in mainstream Hollywood as he was in the 1990s and early 2000s, he remains respected in the industry.
Key aspects of his current life:
- Voice Work & Acting: Jason continues to be involved in smaller film and TV projects, including guest appearances and independent films.
- Business Ventures: He has hinted at investments in music publishing and possibly real estate, although details remain private.
- Public Speaking: Jason occasionally speaks at schools, youth organizations, and business panels about financial literacy, career management, and navigating early fame.
- Personal Life: He enjoys a quiet family life and is very private about his wife and son. He lives a low-key lifestyle focused on family, financial sustainability, and legacy-building.
- Streaming Success: With The Lion King and Smart Guy available on Disney+ and other platforms, Jason continues to earn residual income and reach new generations of fans.
Despite avoiding the red carpet circuit, Jason remains deeply influential. His work ethic, humility, and financial wisdom have made him something of a role model for younger entertainers looking for long-term success beyond the limelight.
Conclusion
Jason Weaver’s journey is a rare and inspiring story in Hollywood—a talented child star who successfully transitioned into adulthood without falling into the traps that so many young celebrities face. Best known for giving voice to one of Disney’s most iconic characters, Simba, and starring in Smart Guy, Jason has left an indelible mark on both music and television.
With a net worth estimated between $4 million and $7 million, Jason’s story is one of talent meeting intelligence. He may not have chased the same level of fame as some of his peers, but his decisions—particularly regarding royalties and long-term income—have made him a model of sustainability in an unpredictable industry.
As he continues to work quietly behind the scenes and raise his son, Jason Weaver remains a shining example of how to build a life and legacy with intention, heart, and authenticity.
FAQ
1. What is Jason Weaver’s net worth in 2025?
His estimated net worth is between $4 million and $7 million.
2. How old is Jason Weaver?
He is 45 years old, born on July 18, 1979.
3. Who did Jason Weaver voice in The Lion King?
He was the singing voice of young Simba in the 1994 animated film.
4. Was Jason Weaver in Smart Guy?
Yes, he played Marcus Henderson, the older brother of the lead character.
5. Is Jason Weaver married?
Yes, he is married, though he keeps his wife’s identity private.
6. Does Jason Weaver have children?
Yes, he has one son, but he keeps details about his child out of the spotlight.
7. What was his big financial decision with Disney?
He turned down a $2 million lump sum for The Lion King in favor of long-term royalties.
8. Is Jason Weaver still acting?
Yes, though he takes on smaller or independent roles and voice projects.
9. What is Jason Weaver’s music career like?
He released an R&B album in the ’90s and was featured in the hit single “One Call Away” with Chingy.
10. Where is Jason Weaver now?
He continues to live a private, low-key life focused on family, work, and maintaining his legacy.
