JD McCrary Biography: Rising Star, Actor, Singer, and Voice of Young Simba
JD McCrary is an acclaimed American actor, singer, and dancer, best known for voicing Young Simba in Disney’s 2019 remake of The Lion King and his standout roles in television and film. With a dynamic presence in Hollywood and the music industry, JD has established himself as a multi-talented entertainer, earning recognition for his powerful vocals and charismatic performances both on screen and stage.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Jaydon McCrary |
|---|---|
| Profession / Occupation | Actor, Singer, Dancer |
| Birth Date | July 18, 2007 |
| Age | 18 (as of August 2025) |
| Birth Place | Granada Hills, Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Famous For | Voicing Young Simba in The Lion King (2019), acting in The Paynes |
| Known For | Acting, Singing, Dancing |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Height & Weight | 5 ft 6 in (168 cm), 60 kg (132 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Education | Home-schooled, private music and acting training |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Marital Status/Spouse | Single |
| Relationship | Not publicly known |
| Children | None |
| Relatives | Undisclosed |
| Hobbies | Singing, Dancing, Basketball, Songwriting |
| Employer/Organization | Disney, Hollywood Records, Tyler Perry Studios |
| Years Active | 2015–present |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $1 million (2025 estimate) |
Early Life & Education
Jaydon “JD” McCrary was born on July 18, 2007, in Granada Hills, Los Angeles, California. Raised in a supportive family environment, JD displayed a passion for music and performance from an early age. His parents encouraged his artistic interests, enrolling him in private music and acting lessons. JD was home-schooled to accommodate his burgeoning career, allowing him to balance academics with his growing schedule in the entertainment industry. His early exposure to gospel music and classic R&B artists played a significant role in shaping his vocal style and stage presence.
Career Journey
JD McCrary’s career trajectory is a testament to his versatility and talent across multiple entertainment platforms. He began his professional journey at a young age, quickly gaining recognition for his dynamic performances.
Early Career and Breakthrough
JD made his television debut in 2015, appearing in guest roles on shows like K.C. Undercover and I’m Dying Up Here. His breakout moment came in 2018, when he was cast as Kenny Payne in Tyler Perry’s sitcom The Paynes on the Oprah Winfrey Network. His comedic timing and natural charisma earned him critical acclaim and a growing fanbase.
Music and Disney Stardom
JD’s vocal abilities soon caught the attention of major studios. In 2019, he was chosen to voice Young Simba in Disney’s highly anticipated live-action remake of The Lion King. His performance, both in voice acting and singing, was widely praised, especially his rendition of “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King.” JD also performed at the 2019 Grammy Awards alongside Donald Glover and Beyoncé, further solidifying his status as a rising star.
Simultaneously, JD signed with Hollywood Records and released his debut EP, Shine, in 2019. The EP showcased his range as a vocalist and songwriter, blending pop, R&B, and soul influences. He continued to release singles and music videos, amassing millions of streams and views across digital platforms.
Recent Activity (2023–2025)
In recent years, JD has expanded his repertoire by taking on more mature acting roles in both film and television. He has made guest appearances on popular series and participated in high-profile music collaborations. JD remains active in the studio, working on new music projects and live performances, and is frequently invited to perform at major award shows and events.
Personal Life
Despite his public profile, JD McCrary maintains a relatively private personal life. He is single as of 2025 and has not publicly disclosed any romantic relationships. JD enjoys spending time with his family, playing basketball, and writing music. He is also involved in community outreach programs, often participating in charity events supporting youth education and the arts.
Awards & Achievements
- NAACP Image Award Nominee (Outstanding Performance by a Youth)
- Young Artist Award Nominee (Best Performance in a TV Series)
- Grammy Awards live performance (2019)
- Voice of Young Simba in Disney’s The Lion King (2019)
- Hollywood Records Recording Artist
Physical Statistics
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (168 cm) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 60 kg (132 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Quotes
- “Music is my way of expressing who I am and how I feel.”
- “I want to inspire other young people to follow their dreams, no matter where they come from.”
- “Working with legends like Beyoncé and Donald Glover was a dream come true.”
Controversies
As of 2025, JD McCrary has maintained a positive public image and has not been involved in any major controversies. He is known for his professionalism and dedication to his craft.
Favorites
- Favorite Actor: Will Smith
- Favorite Singer: Michael Jackson
- Favorite Movie: The Lion King
- Favorite Food: Pizza
- Favorite Sport: Basketball
- Favorite Color: Blue
Salary & Net Worth
JD McCrary’s estimated net worth as of 2025 is around $1 million. His earnings come from acting roles, music releases, brand endorsements, and live performances. As a young artist signed to major entertainment companies like Disney and Hollywood Records, his income is expected to grow as his career continues to flourish.
Interesting Facts
- JD is the youngest artist ever signed to Hollywood Records.
- He performed at the 2019 Grammys at just 11 years old.
- JD cites Michael Jackson as his biggest musical influence.
- He is an advocate for arts education in schools.
- JD can play multiple instruments, including piano and drums.
Social Media Links
Frequently Asked Questions
- How old is JD McCrary?
- As of August 2025, JD McCrary is 18 years old.
- What is JD McCrary famous for?
- He is best known for voicing Young Simba in Disney’s The Lion King (2019) and for his acting and singing career.
- Does JD McCrary have any siblings?
- JD has kept details about his family private, and there is no public information about siblings.
- Is JD McCrary dating anyone?
- As of 2025, JD McCrary is single and has not publicly shared details about his relationships.
- What is JD McCrary’s net worth?
- His estimated net worth is around $1 million.
- What are JD McCrary’s main hobbies?
- He enjoys singing, dancing, playing basketball, and songwriting.
Conclusion
JD McCrary’s journey from a talented child performer to a celebrated young star is both inspiring and impressive. His achievements in acting, singing, and dancing showcase his dedication and passion for the arts. As he continues to break new ground in entertainment, JD remains a role model for aspiring artists everywhere. If you enjoyed learning about JD McCrary, please share this article with others!
Sources: The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Variety, Rolling Stone, Disney Press Releases, Oprah Winfrey Network.
