New York, NY – May 24, 2026 – The vibrant world of Hollywood often brings forth tales of blockbuster hits and behind-the-scenes drama, but sometimes, the most profound stories emerge from the personal lives of its stars. Nick Jonas, a multifaceted entertainer known for his chart-topping music and burgeoning acting career, recently shared a deeply touching revelation: the animated classic "The Lion King" consistently brings him to tears, particularly when experienced through the eyes of his young daughter, Malti Marie.
During a candid panel discussion for his latest film, "Power Ballad," held at New York City’s prestigious 92NY on Monday, May 18th, Jonas, alongside co-star Paul Rudd and director John Carney, engaged in a thoughtful conversation with moderator Josh Horowitz. While the discussion delved into the intricacies of filmmaking and the creative process, Jonas’s reflections on fatherhood and the re-discovery of beloved childhood stories with his daughter resonated with a unique warmth and vulnerability.
The Unexpected Emotional Resonance of a Disney Classic
The conversation naturally gravitated towards the emotional impact of storytelling, prompting Horowitz to inquire about films or music that elicit a strong emotional response from Jonas. While he acknowledged the profound effect of certain scenes in his new film, "Power Ballad," particularly those that touch upon paternal themes, Jonas’s answer for his go-to tearjerker was unequivocally Disney’s iconic 1994 animated masterpiece, "The Lion King."
"Well, I’ll say there are two scenes in this movie that I’m not in, and they hit me super hard as a father," Jonas began, referring to "Power Ballad." He elaborated, "I think there’s a real thing that you’ll see. I want you to think about this powerful stuff, family, that aspect. Then, outside of that, when I cry over a movie, it’s ‘The Lion King’."
This admission, delivered with a gentle smile, underscored a sentiment that has become increasingly poignant for many parents: the re-experiencing of childhood touchstones through the innocent and unadulterated perspective of their own children. Jonas articulated this beautifully, explaining how sharing these formative narratives with his daughter, Malti Marie, has imbued them with a new layer of meaning.
"You know, things that I’m getting to watch with my daughter these days and kind of read some of those experiences, the stories that shaped who I became, and now I’m sharing that with her. It’s a totally special thing to experience," he shared. The raw emotion in his voice conveyed the profound connection he feels to these shared moments, transforming a beloved childhood film into a powerful vehicle for intergenerational bonding. He also admitted, with a touch of self-deprecating humor, that he "always" finds himself getting emotional while watching movies on airplanes, further highlighting his sensitive nature when it comes to cinematic narratives.
The Jonas-Priyanka Household: Nurturing Normalcy Amidst Stardom
The revelation about "The Lion King" offers a heartwarming glimpse into the private life of Nick Jonas and his wife, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, as they navigate the complexities of parenthood in the intense spotlight of global fame. The couple welcomed their daughter, Malti Marie, in January 2022 via surrogacy. Since then, they have been diligent in sharing their journey as parents, often offering glimpses of their daughter on social media, albeit with a carefully considered approach to privacy.
On April 8th of this year, Jonas shared an endearing photograph of himself planting a kiss on Malti’s head, captioned simply, "Week 1 in Vancouver 🇨🇦." This snapshot, like many others, showcases the genuine affection and dedication he has towards his daughter.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas has also been vocal about their commitment to raising Malti with a sense of normalcy. In a candid appearance on Amanda Hirsch’s "Not Skinny But Not Fat" podcast last month, the acclaimed actress discussed their efforts to shield Malti from the overwhelming aspects of their public lives as she matures.
"As she’s growing older, we’ve started to also kind of just deflect a little bit," Chopra Jonas explained. "She moves around a lot, [so we] let her have as much anonymity as she can." This conscious decision reflects a desire to protect Malti’s childhood and allow her to develop her own identity away from the constant scrutiny that often accompanies celebrity children.
Chopra Jonas further elaborated on the potential psychological impact of incessant public attention, stating, "I don’t want her to grow up feeling afraid or suspicious of people simply because of public attention around her." She emphasized the importance of fostering a balanced perspective, ensuring Malti understands that while curiosity about her is inevitable, she should not feel threatened by it. "It is her normal, and people will be curious about her, and I never want her to be fearful of that or judgy or skeptical of the humans she meets because there are good people in the world, and I’ve had wonderful experiences with friends like that. It’s okay for her to be aware of it, but to have a sense of choice, I think, will be important." This thoughtful approach highlights their commitment to equipping Malti with the emotional resilience and discernment necessary to thrive in their unique circumstances.
A Hands-On Father and a United Front
The dedication Nick Jonas displays as a father is consistently lauded by his wife. In a previous interview with Vogue Arabia, Priyanka Chopra Jonas affectionately described him as "very hands-on." She recounted a heartwarming anecdote: "My husband is very hands-on and even today – because I had to jump on this interview – he was the one preparing her for silly hair day at school. He did the cutest lopsided pigtails on her." This small, everyday act of parenting underscores the deep involvement and genuine care Nick brings to his role as a father.
The couple’s commitment to their family is evident in their willingness to integrate their daughter into their professional lives when feasible, while always prioritizing her well-being. Chopra Jonas shared that Malti often accompanies her on filming locations, fostering a sense of togetherness. "Our baby is like a magnet to us, and we run to her wherever we are in the world," she said. During the filming of her 2025 movie "Heads of State" in Provence, Malti spent quality time with her grandmother and enjoyed simple pleasures like visiting a local bakery for croissants, illustrating how they strive to create a semblance of routine and normalcy even amidst the nomadic nature of their careers.
"Power Ballad": A New Chapter for Nick Jonas
The discussion around "The Lion King" and fatherhood was interwoven with insights into Jonas’s latest cinematic endeavor, "Power Ballad." In the film, he portrays Danny Wilson, a former boy band sensation whose career experiences a resurgence when he encounters Rick, a veteran wedding singer played by Paul Rudd. The narrative explores their burgeoning musical connection and the subsequent complications that arise when Danny’s hit song, originally penned by Rick, propels him back into the limelight. The film delves into themes of artistic integrity, recognition, and the enduring power of music.
Directed by John Carney, known for his critically acclaimed musical dramas like "Once" and "Sing Street," "Power Ballad" promises to be a poignant exploration of the music industry and the human desire for creative fulfillment. The chemistry between Jonas and Rudd, both established talents with a penchant for compelling performances, is anticipated to be a major draw for audiences.
The film, currently playing in theaters, marks a significant step in Nick Jonas’s evolution as an actor, allowing him to showcase a different facet of his artistic capabilities. His willingness to share such personal reflections, juxtaposed with his professional endeavors, paints a picture of an artist who is not only dedicated to his craft but also deeply connected to his family and the universal emotions that bind us all. The simple act of watching "The Lion King" with his daughter has become a powerful reminder of life’s most cherished joys, proving that even in the dazzling world of Hollywood, the most profound moments are often found in the quiet intimacy of a parent’s love.
