As Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires prepares to sink its teeth into screens, Disney is set to introduce a new era of magic for this generation, with rising star Julian Lerner ready to lead the way.
The Disney Zombies franchise has become a monster-sized success since its premiere in 2018, alluring audiences with its musical numbers and themes of acceptance. The first film introduced viewers to Seabrook, a town divided between humans and zombies, and followed the romance between zombie football player Zed (Milo Manheim) and human cheerleader Addison (Meg Donnelly) as they fought for coexistence. This was followed by Zombies 2 in 2020, which welcomed werewolves, and Zombies 3 in 2022, which saw the arrival of aliens.
Now, the story continues with Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires. This fourth installment promises even more music, choreography, and supernatural excitement as Zed and Addison’s summer road trip leads them to discover the warring worlds of Sunnyside and Shadyside, where they come face-to-face with two new groups of monsters: Vampires and the Daywalkers. In this new installment, Julian Lerner joins the beloved Disney universe, taking on the role of Ray, a proud and loyal Daywalker.
For Lerner, joining the world of Zombies was a dream realized. The moment he learned he’d be joining the project, his response was exactly what you’d expect from someone who learned that they’d be starring in a Disney Channel Original Movie.
I got that call, and I just started freaking out. It was such a surreal feeling to now realize I am actually going to be a part of this, something I grew up watching.
This exciting new chapter, however, also came with intense preparation. With its high-energy musical numbers, Zombies 4 continues Disney Channel’s legacy, a tradition set by iconic franchises like High School Musical and Descendants. Ahead of its premiere, Disney released two new musical moments from the film: “The Place To Be” and Lerner’s personal favorite, “Don’t Mess With Us.” Each track boasts a catchy chorus and impressive choreography, showcasing Lerner’s impressive vocal abilities and dance skills. To achieve the Disney magic audiences see on screen, Lerner shared his experience with a rigorous, month-long rehearsal process in New Zealand focused on learning the choreography inside and out, which he proudly called “101 percent perfect.”
Intense performance demands are nothing new for Lerner. At only 17, he already boasts an impressive array of experiences: he’s graced Broadway stages, released his own music, and now leads a Disney Channel Original Movie. His impressive stage credits include playing Gavroche and Petit Gervais in the Broadway revival of Les Misérables, as well as The Artful Dodger in New York City Center’s production of Oliver!.
However, even with his accomplished background, joining a beloved franchise also meant stepping into a world with an established and close-knit cast. Lerner quickly experienced the genuine warmth and kindness of each cast member, who quickly became both friends and mentors. He shared that off-set, the cast would frequently gather for dinners and game nights. These shared moments, he explained, not only made the rehearsal and filming process more enjoyable but also added to their on-screen chemistry. Among the many special behind-the-scenes memories, Lerner fondly recalled playing his guitar and singing Bob Marley songs with co-star Meg Donnelly. True to the Zombies franchise’s themes of community and acceptance, it seems its stars also embody those same values, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment both in front of and behind the camera.
Despite his young age and impressive achievements, Lerner maintains a humble perspective on his craft. He approaches each new opportunity not with a sense of arrival, but with an understanding that his journey of personal and artistic growth has only just begun.
Throughout my career, I have learned so much, and I know there is still so much to learn.
Beyond his acting career, this summer has marked a significant milestone for Lerner as a musician. He recently released his debut single, “Dead End,” a breakup anthem inspired by a real-life experience. “This song is about moving forward,” he noted.
Lerner plans to release his next single in August, promising a track that dives “even deeper into his sound,” describing it as a “slow, groovy, and passionate song.” Reflecting on this new venture, Lerner excitedly shared, “I have wanted to release music for so long, and now to actually do it…my mind is blown.”
Whether he’s stealing the show on a Broadway stage, captivating audiences with his new music, or lighting up the screen on Disney Channel, his undeniable talent and passion make it abundantly clear: he’s just getting started, and we can’t wait to see what’s next. He stands poised to lead a new generation of Disney, driven by an ultimate hope deeply rooted in connection and continuation.
I just hope people love this film. I hope it brings opportunities to keep doing what I love.
Audiences won’t have to wait long to witness his star power, as Disney’s Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires is set to premiere on Disney Channel on July 10, 2025, and stream globally on Disney+ the following day, July 11, 2025.
