Timon and Pumbaa, the unforgettable duo from The Lion King franchise, embody comic relief, life wisdom, and unshakable friendship.
Through their laid-back motto “Hakuna Matata” and wild misadventures, they teach valuable lessons about living in the moment, facing fears, and staying true to your friends.
This curated list gathers 25 of their most iconic and insightful quotes—showcasing their humor, heart, and the deeper themes hidden beneath the laughs.
Hakuna Matata
Episode: The Lion King (Film)
Speaker: Timon and Pumbaa
Context: A carefree philosophy that symbolizes letting go of the past and embracing peace in the present
You gotta put your behind in your past
Episode: The Lion King (Film)
Speaker: Pumbaa
Context: A comedic yet profound way of urging Simba to move beyond guilt and trauma
Home is where your rump rests
Episode: Timon & Pumbaa, S1E2 “Home is Where the Hog Is”
Speaker: Pumbaa
Context: Reflects their nomadic lifestyle and belief in finding comfort wherever you are
I’m telling ya, kid, this is the great life! No rules, no responsibilities!
Episode: The Lion King (Film)
Speaker: Timon
Context: Timon introduces Simba to a carefree lifestyle, showing their rejection of societal expectations
It’s times like this my buddy Timon would say: ‘Pumbaa, with friends like you, who needs enemas?’
Episode: Timon & Pumbaa, S1E6 “TV Dinner”
Speaker: Pumbaa
Context: Pumbaa’s innocence highlights the humor and heart in their friendship
If you’re not going to eat me, then what’s the problem?
Episode: The Lion King 1½ (Film)
Speaker: Timon
Context: Timon’s bluntness masks vulnerability; a moment that shows his survival instinct and comic timing
You’re my best friend, Pumbaa
Episode: The Lion King 1½ (Film)
Speaker: Timon
Context: A rare emotional moment affirming the strength and loyalty in their friendship
I think you’re a little confused
Episode: The Lion King (Film)
Speaker: Timon
Context: Said to Simba, showing Timon’s role as comic relief and occasional voice of reason
You’ve got to put the past behind you
Episode: The Lion King (Film)
Speaker: Pumbaa
Context: Reinforces the “Hakuna Matata” mindset; encourages emotional healing and growth
This stinks!
Episode: Timon & Pumbaa, S1E1 “Boara Boara”
Speaker: Timon
Context: A humorous yet honest reaction to discomfort, showcasing Timon’s blunt emotional expression
What’s a motto? Nothing, what’s a motto with you?
Episode: The Lion King (Film)
Speaker: Timon and Pumbaa
Context: Classic wordplay that reinforces their easygoing dynamic and mutual humor
Don’t worry, Simba—we’ll take care of everything
Episode: The Lion King (Film)
Speaker: Timon
Context: Shows Timon’s unexpected loyalty and protective instinct for a friend
You’re gonna need a new name
Episode: The Lion King 1½ (Film)
Speaker: Timon
Context: Symbolic of reinvention; encourages Simba to shed his troubled past
We did it, Pumbaa! We saved the day!
Episode: Timon & Pumbaa, S1E8 “Mombasa-In-Law”
Speaker: Timon
Context: Highlights their rare moments of heroism and teamwork
Friends stick together to the end
Episode: Timon & Pumbaa, S2E3 “Don’t Break the China”
Speaker: Pumbaa
Context: Core belief in loyalty; their friendship is the emotional spine of the series
We’re not just friends—we’re family
Episode: The Lion King 1½ (Film)
Speaker: Timon
Context: Emphasizes their bond transcending friendship into chosen family
It’s our turn to help
Episode: The Lion King (Film)
Speaker: Timon
Context: Marks a pivotal change as they step up to support Simba in reclaiming his destiny
I may be a pig, but I’ve got standards
Episode: Timon & Pumbaa, S1E4 “Saskatchewan Catch”
Speaker: Pumbaa
Context: Comedic line that subtly affirms dignity and self-respect
He looks blue…
Episode: The Lion King (Film)
Speaker: Timon
Context: Light-hearted line revealing their first concern for Simba’s emotional state
Sometimes, you’ve gotta go back to move forward
Episode: The Lion King 1½ (Film)
Speaker: Timon
Context: Reflects character growth and their evolving outlook on life
Maybe we should ask for directions
Episode: Timon & Pumbaa, S1E5 “Sense and Senegambia”
Speaker: Pumbaa
Context: A rare moment of logic from Pumbaa, symbolizing maturity and growth
Let your conscience be your guide!
Episode: Timon & Pumbaa, S2E10 “Uganda Be an Elephant”
Speaker: Timon
Context: Satirical twist on classic advice; shows they still value doing the right thing deep down
I never knew being brave could feel so scary
Episode: The Lion King 1½ (Film)
Speaker: Pumbaa
Context: Honest emotional moment that connects bravery with vulnerability
It’s not about where you’re from, it’s about who you’re with
Episode: Timon & Pumbaa, S2E6 “Big Top Breakfast”
Speaker: Timon
Context: Underscores chosen family theme and Timon’s character evolution
We’re here for you, buddy
Episode: The Lion King (Film)
Speaker: Timon and Pumbaa
Context: A heartfelt reassurance that seals the foundation of Simba’s emotional support system
