During the 2024 Winter Television Critics Association Press Tour, Disney Branded Television confirmed that ZOMBIES 4 (working title) has been greenlit. Production is set to begin next month in New Zealand. Meg Donnelly and Milo Manheim will return to star as Addison and Zed, and both actors will also serve as executive producers.
Following the franchise’s successful run, this next chapter continues the story of Seabrook’s most famous zombie-cheerleader couple.
What to Expect from ZOMBIES 4
In ZOMBIES 4, Addison and Zed head out on a road trip during the summer after their first year of college. Their plans take an unexpected turn when they stumble upon two new towns—Sunnyside and Shadyside. These opposing communities introduce a new clash of supernatural creatures, setting the stage for all-new conflicts and surprises.
Returning cast members include Chandler Kinney as werewolf Willa and Kylee Russell as Eliza. New to the cast are Freya Skye and Malachi Barton, playing Nova and Victor—two mysterious beings Zed and Addison meet on their journey.
Longtime Director and Creative Team Return
The film will once again be directed by DGA Award-winner Paul Hoen, who has directed all three previous ZOMBIES movies. Known for his work across 16 Disney Channel Original Movies, Hoen brings consistency and vision to the series.
Writers David Light and Joseph Raso return to write the fourth installment, joined by Josh Cagan. Alongside Donnelly and Manheim, the producing team includes Hoen, Light, Raso, Jane Fleming, and Mark Ordesky. Mahita P. Simpson joins as co-executive producer. The film is a production of Bloor Street Productions.
More Than a Movie: Music and Merch Are Coming Too
As with past entries, ZOMBIES 4 will expand beyond the screen. Disney plans to roll out a new line of merchandise, including apparel, costumes, and fashion dolls by Mattel. The film’s release will continue the franchise’s tradition of cross-category storytelling, tying in music, retail, and character experiences.
Animated Spin-Off Series Arrives in 2024
Also announced by Disney Branded Television President Ayo Davis is ZOMBIES: The Re-Animated Series. This will be the franchise’s first animated series and is set to premiere in summer 2024 on Disney Channel and Disney+.
The animated series will explore even more of the supernatural world introduced in the films, giving fans a fresh way to stay connected with their favorite characters.
A Proven Hit for Disney
Since the debut of the first ZOMBIES film in 2018, the franchise has become one of Disney Channel’s most-watched properties. Each movie premiered at No. 1 among kids and tweens and has generated a combined 253 million hours viewed across linear and streaming platforms.
The music is just as successful. With more than 2.7 billion streams across YouTube Music, Disney Channel YouTube, and Disney Music Vevo, the soundtracks have become a major part of the franchise’s success. ZOMBIES and ZOMBIES 3 both reached No. 1 on the Billboard Top Kid Albums chart.
Why Fans Are Excited About ZOMBIES 4
The return of Donnelly and Manheim signals another high-energy chapter full of heart, music, and supernatural surprises. With a new location, new characters, and the original creative team back on board, ZOMBIES 4 promises to expand the franchise while staying true to what fans love.
Stay tuned for behind-the-scenes updates as filming begins and the summer release of ZOMBIES: The Re-Animated Series brings even more undead energy to screens.
