It was drowned out by the fury over Cranky Kong's announcement, but in the VGX video, Nintendo confirms that the game supports the Gamepad, Wiimote + Nunchuk, Wiimote sideways on its own, and the pro controller.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPHlFHqZOiA (5:29)

I'll be playing with the Wiimote + Nunchuk myself, as I love the motion controls in DKCR, but those who didn't like them will have the option to forego them this time.

I would be surprised if this was not an option since DK isn't an easy game to beat...

Yes, at VGX they announced Gamepad, Pro controller and nunchuck and wiimote, I like all the controller options Nintendo gives us!

Do many Wii U games offer pro controller support?

Yes, lots.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Wii_U_games_that_use_the_Wii_U_Pro_Controller

It's good to hear that, but by any chance, does Tropical Freeze also support the classic controller like 3D World does?

No word yet.

Great news.The pro controller is far more comfortable, especially for 2D platformers, imo.

no unique gameplay elements that show off the need for the wiiU gamepad confirmed. ;)

Just buying 3 upcoming games for Wii U. MK8, SSBU and Zelda Ultimate.