However, after Tarzan reaches adulthood, the ape man's deeds and cleverness raise him to a prominence in the band Kerchak finds impossible to ignore, and the king attacks his human subject.
[2] Kerchak's character in the Disney animated movie Tarzan (1999) was changed substantially from his original role in the series and is voiced by Lance Henriksen.
Once Clayton is dealt with, Kerchak passes his leadership of the gorilla family to Tarzan; before succumbing to his injuries; signifying his ultimate acceptance of him as both adopted son and a worthy successor.
Disney's Kerchak also appears briefly in the video game Kingdom Hearts, first when Tarzan pleads with him and Kala to help him aid Sora, Donald and Goofy.
The account echoes Burroughs's version of Tarzan's youth, but names Kerchak rather than Kala as his ape foster mother.
While neither actually appears in the film (nor any other ape character, aside from the ubiquitous Cheeta) the direct reference to the original Burroughs story is unusual for a movie of this period.