When Disney Channel released Zombies in 2018, few could have predicted it would spark a multi-film franchise with a devoted fanbase, chart-topping soundtracks, and powerful messages of acceptance. Blending pop music, campy horror tropes, and teenage drama, the Zombies universe now spans three films, a new animated series, and an upcoming fourth installment: Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires.

Here’s an in-depth look at the success of the Zombies franchise, what makes it resonate with fans, and what we can expect from its exciting future.

What Makes Zombies So Popular?

While Zombies may appear on the surface to be another kid-friendly musical, there’s more to the series than catchy choruses and flashy dance numbers. At its core, Zombies is about belonging, diversity, and inclusion. From its very first film, the franchise tackled themes of discrimination, breaking down barriers, and accepting others who are different—through the lens of zombies trying to fit into a squeaky-clean suburban town.

Here are a few key reasons for its popularity:

  • Powerful Messaging: Each movie confronts societal divisions through supernatural metaphors, whether it’s zombies, werewolves, aliens, or vampires. Kids and teens relate to the struggles of the characters—being misunderstood, facing prejudice, and wanting to be accepted.
  • Incredible Soundtracks: The music is undeniably catchy. From “BAMM” and “Flesh & Bone” to “Ain’t No Doubt About It,” each film has delivered pop hits that go viral on TikTok and rack up millions of streams on Spotify and YouTube.
  • Lovable Leads: Milo Manheim (Zed) and Meg Donnelly (Addison) have become Disney icons in their own right. Their chemistry and consistent presence across the franchise have anchored each movie and helped build a strong fanbase.
  • Evolving Lore: Rather than sticking with a single storyline, the franchise has expanded its universe with each film—bringing in new supernatural creatures, cultures, and conflicts that keep the world of Seabrook feeling fresh and exciting.

Zombies (2018): The Origin of Seabrook’s Social Revolution

The first Zombies movie introduces us to Seabrook, a perfectly manicured town obsessed with order, rules, and conformity. After a zombie outbreak decades earlier, the undead have been quarantined in “Zombietown.” Thanks to new technology (Z-Bands), zombies can now control their urges and begin to integrate into the high school.

Enter Zed, a zombie football player, and Addison, a human cheerleader with a secret (her white hair). The two form an unlikely friendship that turns into a romance—much to the dismay of Seabrook’s rule-obsessed leadership.

Their love becomes a symbol for social change, pushing the school (and town) to reconsider their biases. Themes of integration, friendship across boundaries, and standing up to oppressive systems are wrapped up in a colorful musical format, making serious ideas digestible for younger audiences.

Zombies 2 (2020): Werewolves and the Power of Identity

The sequel picks up with Seabrook on its way to becoming a more inclusive town, but things take a sharp turn when a mysterious group of werewolves shows up looking for the magical moonstone—an ancient artifact that keeps their people alive.

Zed, now more confident and popular, worries that the arrival of the werewolves will ruin the progress zombies have made. Meanwhile, Addison feels drawn to the newcomers, wondering if their unique energy and silver hair might finally explain why she’s always felt different.

The film examines internalized prejudice and how fear can cause even the most open-minded people to push others away. Addison’s search for identity adds emotional depth, while the werewolves bring a raw, rebellious edge to the cast. Songs like “We Got This” and “Flesh & Bone” highlight the struggle between tradition and transformation.

Zombies 3 (2022): Aliens and Cosmic Destiny

With Zed trying to become the first monster to attend college and Addison discovering her potential alien ancestry, Zombies 3 takes the franchise to new cosmic heights—literally. When a trio of aliens lands in Seabrook, claiming they’re scouting for an intergalactic cheer competition, the town welcomes them. But it soon becomes clear they’re hiding a bigger mission.

As Addison learns about her true origins, Zed faces pressure to prove monsters are just as deserving of opportunity as humans. The movie leans into themes of legacy, belonging, and finding your place in the universe, making it the most philosophical and futuristic film in the franchise.

“Alien Invasion” and “Come On Out” are standout musical numbers that emphasize excitement, unity, and the challenge of welcoming change. Though it was initially promoted as the “final chapter,” Zombies 3 left the door open for more.

Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires (Coming 2025)

Announced in 2024 and confirmed to be in production, Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires is set to premiere in 2025, taking Zed and Addison out of Seabrook and into a new supernatural battleground.

This time, Zed and Addison are summer camp counselors helping bring unity between rival vampire groups: the traditional bloodline vampires and the more modern daywalkers. Tensions rise when both sides must put aside their differences to confront an ancient, possibly magical threat.

New characters include:

  • Nova – A fierce and mysterious vampire warrior from the bloodline faction.
  • Victor – A charismatic, day-dwelling vampire trying to modernize old traditions.
  • Gideon – A vampire historian and possible villain who holds the key to the upcoming conflict.

Director Paul Hoen is returning, and both Manheim and Donnelly have confirmed they’re reprising their roles. New songs and choreography are expected to continue pushing the musical bar higher than ever.

This installment promises to explore themes of reconciliation, tradition vs. progress, and learning to lead in a divided world—while introducing fans to new lore and relationships.

Beyond the Films: Zombies Expands into Animation and Live Performances

In addition to the main movie trilogy, Disney has greenlit and launched an animated series titled ZOMBIES: The Re-Animated Series, which brings all your favorite characters into Saturday morning cartoon-style adventures. The animation allows for zanier plots, comedic exaggerations, and gives younger fans a new format to enjoy.

Moreover, Disney launched the “Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide” Tour, bringing the stars of both mega-franchises together for live concerts filled with music, dance, and mashups of iconic numbers. The tour sold out venues across North America and proved that the franchise’s fanbase spans multiple generations.

The Legacy of Zombies

Much like High School Musical or Descendants, the Zombies franchise has cemented its place in Disney Channel history. But it also stands out for tackling real-world social issues through fantasy metaphors. Whether it’s immigration, prejudice, fear of the “other,” or self-discovery, these movies create a space for important conversations.

The fact that the franchise continues to grow, evolve, and maintain its relevance is a testament to the storytelling, cast chemistry, and Disney’s ability to infuse heart into even the most undead stories.

Final Thoughts

The Zombies franchise isn’t just about zombies, werewolves, aliens, or vampires—it’s about people. It’s about learning how to live together, celebrate differences, and push against the forces that try to divide us. Through energetic choreography, heartfelt performances, and inclusive storytelling, Zombies continues to capture the imagination and hearts of fans around the world.

With Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires on the horizon and a new generation of fans joining the journey, the future of Seabrook (and beyond) looks brighter than ever—no matter what monsters come next.