15 Important Milo Manheim Facts You Didn’t Learn in School
Milo Manheim has captured hearts worldwide as Disney’s beloved zombie Zed, but there’s so much more to this 23-year-old performer than meets the eye. Born on March 6, 2001, Manheim is a second-generation actor who has built an impressive career spanning film, television, theater, and music.
Quick Facts About Milo Manheim:
- Best Known For: Playing Zed in Disney’s ZOMBIES franchise
- Age: 23 years old (born March 6, 2001)
- Height: 6 feet 3 inches tall
- Parents: Actress Camryn Manheim and former model Jeffrey Brezovar
- Music Success: 1.2 million monthly Spotify listeners, with “Someday” reaching 92+ million streams
- TV Achievement: Runner-up on Dancing with the Stars Season 27
- Theater Background: Performed in 20+ musicals before his Disney breakthrough
- Current Projects: Executive producer on ZOMBIES 4, starred in School Spirits and Little Shop of Horrors
From growing up on the sets of The Practice and Ghost Whisperer to becoming a Disney icon, Manheim’s journey is filled with surprising twists. He started acting at age six in local theater productions and won his first major award at the 2017 Musical Festival – all before landing his breakout role as the zombie football player who stole millions of hearts.
What makes Manheim truly fascinating isn’t just his on-screen success, but his evolution as an artist. He plays multiple instruments, advocates for environmental causes, and has successfully transitioned from teen heartthrob to serious actor with roles in horror films and theater productions.
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From Theatrical Roots to a Breakout Career
Long before Milo Manheim became Disney’s beloved zombie heartthrob, he was cutting his teeth on community theater stages. His story isn’t your typical overnight success – it’s the tale of a kid who grew up surrounded by the magic of storytelling and never looked back.
Milo Manheim had the entertainment industry literally in his DNA. His mother, Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress Camryn Manheim, would often bring young Milo to the sets of her hit shows like The Practice and Ghost Whisperer. Picture a little boy watching his mom work, absorbing every moment of the creative process. It’s no wonder he caught the acting bug early.
At just six years old, Milo took his first steps onto the stage. But this wasn’t just a childhood phase – he dove in headfirst. By age seven, he was training seriously and becoming a regular fixture in the local vibrant theater scene. Through Liza Monjauze Productions, he performed in an impressive 20 different musicals starting in 2008, building the foundation that would later make him a triple threat.
The Early Life and Theatrical Roots of Milo Manheim
Growing up as the son of Camryn Manheim and former model Jeffrey Brezovar meant that Milo Manheim was practically born into show business. A major publication once called him Camryn Manheim’s son is a theater baby, and honestly, they weren’t wrong.
His theatrical education was nothing short of comprehensive. Milo tackled challenging productions like Rent and A Chorus Line, showed his range in Gypsy, and took on the edgy material of Spring Awakening. Each role taught him something new about the craft, from vocal technique to character development.
What makes Milo’s background even more interesting is his cultural upbringing. He had a secular bar mitzvah in the Jewish community, reflecting a family that values both tradition and modern thinking. This blend of influences – theatrical, cultural, and personal – shaped him into the well-rounded performer we see today.
Winning Awards Before Disney Fame
Here’s something that might surprise you: Milo Manheim was already winning major awards before Disney even knew his name. In 2017, while most teens were worried about prom, Milo was starring in an original musical called Generation Me at the prestigious Musical Theatre Festival.
The show tackled heavy themes around teen mental health and suicide prevention – not exactly light material for a 16-year-old. But Milo’s performance was so powerful and authentic that he walked away with the Outstanding Performance in a Leading Role award at the 2017 NYMF Awards for Excellence.
This wasn’t just a trophy on the shelf for Milo. The experience sparked a genuine passion for teen suicide prevention advocacy, showing that even as a young performer, he understood the responsibility that comes with having a platform. It was clear to everyone watching that this wasn’t just another talented kid – this was someone with real depth and purpose.
The award was a significant milestone that proved Milo Manheim had what it takes to carry a leading role. Little did anyone know that within a year, he’d be auditioning for a little Disney movie about zombies that would change his life forever. For more inspiring stories about rising stars making their mark, check out our Profiles of other rising stars.
The Zombies Franchise: How Milo Manheim Became a Disney Icon
In 2018, Milo Manheim transformed from a talented theater kid into a global Disney sensation with one iconic role: Zed Necrodopolis, the lovable zombie football player who captured hearts worldwide. The Disney Channel Original Movie ZOMBIES wasn’t just another teen flick – it became a cultural phenomenon that would define a generation.
What made the franchise so special? The magic happened when Milo Manheim‘s natural charisma met the show’s powerful message of acceptance and unity. Playing opposite Meg Donnelly’s Addison, he brought depth and heart to what could have been just another supernatural romance. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, creating a love story that felt both fantastical and deeply human.
The ZOMBIES universe grew into something remarkable – ZOMBIES 2 and ZOMBIES 3 followed, each building on the themes of breaking down barriers and embracing differences. Milo Manheim‘s Zed became the perfect ambassador for these messages, showing audiences that being different isn’t just okay – it’s something to celebrate. The franchise’s blend of catchy music, energetic choreography, and meaningful storytelling struck a chord that resonated far beyond Disney Channel’s typical audience.
The Music That Defined a Generation
Milo Manheim‘s musical talents truly came alive through the ZOMBIES soundtrack, and the numbers speak for themselves. With over 1.2 million monthly listeners on Spotify, he’s proven that his appeal extends far beyond the screen. His breakout hit “Someday” has garnered an incredible 92+ million streams, becoming an anthem that fans still sing along to years later.
The musical success didn’t stop there. Songs like “Flesh & Bone” earned nearly 49 million streams, while “BAMM” reached over 32 million. Fan favorites “Like the Zombies Do” and “We Become We” added millions more to his impressive catalog. These aren’t just catchy tunes – they’re songs with heart and meaning that have become part of fans’ daily playlists.
What’s remarkable about Milo Manheim‘s musical journey is how naturally he transitioned from theater stages to recording studios. His voice carries the same authenticity and emotion that made his stage performances so compelling. The chart-topping soundtracks didn’t just support the movies – they became standalone hits that introduced his musical talents to an even wider audience. You can experience this musical magic yourself by checking out the ZOMBIES soundtrack on Spotify.
From Star to Executive Producer
The evolution of Milo Manheim‘s role in the ZOMBIES franchise tells a beautiful story of growth and mentorship. For Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires, he’s stepping into an exciting new position as Executive Producer while still bringing Zed back to life on screen. This isn’t just a title – it represents his deep commitment to the world he helped create.
Taking on this producer role means Milo Manheim is now helping shape the franchise’s future, including mentoring the new cast members Victor and Nova who are stepping into leading roles. He’s acceptd what he calls “passing the torch,” ensuring that the positive message and spirit of ZOMBIES continues to burn brightly with the next generation of performers.
The journey to Zombies 4 even took the cast to stunning landscapes for filming. Milo Manheim described shooting there as his “singular favorite day of shooting anything ever,” particularly when reprising the beloved song “Ain’t No Doubt About It.” It’s clear that his passion for the franchise remains as strong as ever, even as his role evolves behind the camera.
This transition from star to executive producer represents more than career growth – it shows Milo Manheim‘s dedication to nurturing the inclusive, uplifting world of Seabrook for future fans. For deeper insights into what’s coming next, you can read more on the ZOMBIES franchise.
Beyond Seabrook: A Journey Through Diverse Roles
The zombie makeup may have come off, but Milo Manheim‘s career change was just getting started. While Seabrook High will always hold a special place in his heart, this talented performer has been deliberately branching out into roles that challenge both him and his audience’s expectations. Standing tall at 6 feet 3 inches, he brings a commanding presence to every character he tackles, whether he’s playing a ghostly football player or stepping into a theater classic.
What’s particularly impressive about Milo Manheim‘s career choices is his fearless approach to genre-hopping. He’s not content to stay in his Disney comfort zone. Instead, he’s actively seeking out projects that push his boundaries and showcase different sides of his personality. From supernatural mysteries to full-blown horror films, he’s proving that his talent extends far beyond catchy musical numbers and choreographed dance sequences.
Exploring Darker Themes in Film and TV
The transition from Disney darling to serious actor isn’t always easy, but Milo Manheim has steerd it with remarkable skill. His role as Wally Clark in Paramount+’s School Spirits marked a significant departure from his previous work. Playing a high school football phantom trapped in limbo, he brought depth and vulnerability to a character dealing with unfinished business and supernatural mysteries.
The show found its audience not just on Paramount+ but also gained tremendous popularity when it moved to Netflix, staying in the Top 10 for several weeks. This success proved that Milo Manheim could carry a dramatic series and connect with viewers in a completely different context than his Disney days.
Perhaps even more surprising was his bold move into horror territory with Eli Roth’s slasher film Thanksgiving. Taking on the role of what he humorously describes as an “expletive boyfriend,” he dove headfirst into cult-classic horror. It’s exactly the kind of unexpected career move that keeps audiences guessing and shows his willingness to take creative risks.
His television appearances have been equally diverse, with guest spots on Doogie Kamealoha, M.D., The Conners, and American Housewife. Each role has allowed him to flex different acting muscles, from comedy to drama, proving he’s not afraid of any genre. For those interested in following other actors who’ve successfully avoided typecasting, you can Read about other versatile actors like Jeremy Allen White.
Returning to the Stage and Ballroom
Before he was conquering new acting territories, Milo Manheim made headlines on the dance floor. His 2018 appearance on Dancing with the Stars Season 27, partnered with professional dancer Witney Carson, was nothing short of spectacular. Week after week, he impressed judges and viewers alike with his natural rhythm, athletic ability, and infectious enthusiasm.
Finishing as the runner-up was an incredible achievement, especially considering he was competing against seasoned performers. The experience taught him discipline, pushed his physical limits, and introduced him to millions of new fans who might never have finded him through Disney Channel alone.
But it was his return to live theater that truly reignited his artistic passion. Taking on the iconic role of Seymour in a production of Little Shop of Horrors was both a homecoming and a revelation. Performing eight shows a week is grueling work that demands incredible vocal stamina and emotional consistency night after night.
The experience was transformative for Milo Manheim in unexpected ways. He finded new confidence in his singing abilities, admitting he learned he was “a better singer than [he] thought [he] was.” Sharing theatrical lineage with previous Seymours like Darren Criss, Jeremy Jordan, and Jonathan Groff gave him a deeper appreciation for the craft and the unique magic of live performance.
Even when things went hilariously wrong – like getting a nosebleed mid-performance – he learned to roll with the punches and accept the unpredictable nature of theater. These moments reminded him why he fell in love with performing in the first place, back in those community theater days with 20+ musicals under his belt. If you’re inspired to catch some live theater magic yourself, you can Buy tickets for Little Shop of Horrors and experience the thrill that keeps drawing performers like Milo Manheim back to the stage.
The Artist Behind the Roles
When the cameras stop rolling and the stage lights dim, Milo Manheim reveals himself to be so much more than just a talented performer. He’s a true Renaissance artist whose passions extend far beyond Hollywood’s bright lights. What makes him particularly fascinating is how seamlessly he weaves his diverse interests into a life that’s as rich offstage as it is on. Here’s a look at the artist behind the roles:
- Musical Talents: A true multi-instrumentalist, Milo Manheim has mastered the guitar, drums, piano, and ukulele. He also experiments with various wind instruments.
- Athletic Pursuits: Beyond his impressive dance moves, he’s an accomplished athlete who enjoys volleyball, soccer, and skiing.
- Community Service & Advocacy: He has a long-standing commitment to community service, volunteering with organizations like a family clinic to help low-income residents. He has also worked to bring arts to disabled students and advocates for environmental causes.
A Passion for Music and Advocacy
The musical side of Milo Manheim runs deeper than most fans realize. While his ZOMBIES soundtrack success speaks volumes about his vocal abilities, his instrumental skills tell an even richer story. He approaches music as both a creative outlet and a form of personal expression, seamlessly transitioning from strumming his guitar to laying down drum beats. This versatility became especially evident during his Little Shop of Horrors run, where he finded new depths to his singing voice and gained confidence as a live performer.
His advocacy work is equally impressive and heartfelt. Milo Manheim has been involved with Robert Kennedy Jr.’s Waterkeeper Alliance for six years, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to environmental protection that goes far beyond typical celebrity endorsements. He’s even interviewed Robert Kennedy Jr. on CBS news about environmental issues, using his growing platform to spotlight causes that matter to him.
The combination of his artistic talents and social consciousness creates a compelling picture of someone who truly understands the responsibility that comes with fame. He’s not just performing for applause – he’s using his voice to make a real difference in the world.
What’s Next for Milo Manheim?
Looking ahead, Milo Manheim accepts an refreshingly open approach to his career. Rather than following a rigid master plan, he believes in letting opportunities unfold naturally. “Things will work out and the universe sort of will push things your direction when it’s time,” he explains, showing a maturity that’s rare in someone his age.
His career philosophy centers on keeping things “weird and diverse.” We’ve already seen this philosophy in action – from playing the zombie heartthrob Zed to embodying the biblical figure Joseph in Journey to Bethlehem, and then switching gears completely to appear in Eli Roth’s horror film Thanksgiving. Each role represents a deliberate choice to step into completely different shoes and challenge himself as an artist.
Milo Manheim isn’t interested in playing it safe or getting trapped in a single genre. He wants his career to surprise both himself and his audiences, continuously pushing boundaries and exploring new creative territories. This fearless approach to role selection, combined with his diverse skill set and genuine passion for storytelling, suggests we’re only seeing the beginning of what promises to be a truly remarkable career journey.
For those interested in following other artists who accept creative diversity, you can Explore profiles of other talented artists like Margaret Qualley who are also carving unique paths in entertainment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Milo Manheim
How old is Milo Manheim?
Milo Manheim was born on March 6, 2001, which makes him 23 years old as we write this. Being a Pisces, he embodies many of the creative and intuitive traits associated with this water sign – qualities that certainly shine through in his performances both on screen and on stage.
His relatively young age is pretty remarkable when you consider everything he’s already accomplished. By 23, he’s starred in a major Disney franchise, competed on national television, made his Off-Broadway debut, and even stepped into a producer role. It’s exciting to think about what the next decade might bring for someone who’s already achieved so much before his mid-twenties.
Who are Milo Manheim‘s parents?
Milo Manheim comes from a family deeply rooted in entertainment, though his parents took different paths to get there. His mother is Camryn Manheim, the acclaimed actress who won both an Emmy and Golden Globe for her powerful work on The Practice. You might also recognize her from shows like Ghost Whisperer and more recently Law & Order.
His father is Jeffrey Brezovar, a former model who worked in the fashion industry. This unique combination – an award-winning actress and a model – certainly gave Milo Manheim exposure to different aspects of the entertainment world from an early age. Growing up with Camryn meant spending time on television sets, which undoubtedly influenced his comfort level in front of cameras and his understanding of the industry.
What is Milo Manheim best known for?
While Milo Manheim has explored many different roles and projects, he’s undoubtedly best known for bringing Zed Necrodopolis to life in Disney’s wildly popular ZOMBIES movie franchise. This role as the charming zombie football player catapulted him to international fame and introduced him to millions of fans worldwide.
Beyond his Disney success, many people also remember his impressive run on Dancing with the Stars season 27 in 2018, where he finished as runner-up alongside professional dancer Witney Carson. His natural athleticism and infectious enthusiasm on the dance floor showed audiences a different side of his talents.
More recently, Milo Manheim has gained recognition for his role as Wally Clark in the Paramount+ series School Spirits, where he plays a high school football phantom. This role demonstrated his ability to handle more complex, dramatic material and helped establish him as a serious actor beyond his Disney roots.
Conclusion
What a remarkable journey it’s been following Milo Manheim from his theatrical beginnings to his current status as one of Hollywood’s most promising young talents. His story isn’t just about luck or family connections – it’s about genuine dedication, versatility, and an artist who refuses to be put in a box.
From those early days performing in 20 different musicals with community theater groups to captivating millions as Disney’s beloved zombie Zed, Milo Manheim has consistently proven that he’s far more than a teen heartthrob. His impressive range – from theater stages to horror films, from environmental advocacy to chart-topping music – showcases an artist who truly understands the power of storytelling in all its forms.
What strikes us most about Milo Manheim‘s career is his authenticity. Whether he’s dancing his way to second place on Dancing with the Stars, advocating for environmental causes with the Waterkeeper Alliance, or stepping into the executive producer role for ZOMBIES 4, he brings the same genuine passion and work ethic that started with that six-year-old kid who just loved to perform.
As he continues to seek out those “weird and diverse” roles he craves, we’re excited to see where his journey takes him next. His willingness to accept challenges – from playing Joseph in Journey to Bethlehem to tackling horror in Thanksgiving – suggests a career filled with surprises and continued growth.
Here at The Dining Destination, we love following artists whose careers take them to fascinating locations around the globe. Milo Manheim‘s recent filming trips for the latest ZOMBIES installment perfectly capture this spirit of exploration and findy that we celebrate. His journey from community theater to international film sets mirrors the kind of culinary trips we help our readers find.
The future looks incredibly bright for this multi-talented performer, and we can’t wait to see what destinations – both literal and artistic – his career will explore next. Explore more extensive guides on fascinating people and places to find other inspiring stories of talent, dedication, and global trip.
