Disney is set to bring Vampirina, the popular animated series, into a new live-action format, scheduled to premiere on Disney Channel and Disney+ in 2025. Inspired by the books by Anne Marie Pace and the original Disney Junior series created by Chris Nee, this adaptation follows Vampirina, or Vee, as she transitions from Transylvania to a performing arts boarding school in Pennsylvania.
Newcomer Kenzi Richardson leads the cast as Vee, a young vampire learning to live among humans while navigating the challenges of a new environment and pursuing her love for music. This storyline adds a twist, as Vee must keep her true identity hidden while her overprotective father has arranged for a ghostly companion, Demi, played by Milo Maharlika, to watch over her at school. The cast also includes Jiwon Lee (Rise Up, Sing Out) as her friend Sophie, Shaun Dixon (The Neighborhood) as Elijah, and Faith Hedley (The Lion King, International Tour) as Britney.
Under the direction of showrunner and executive producer Randi Barnes, along with Tim Federle and Bronwyn North-Reist, the series aims to retain the spirit of its source material while appealing to a slightly older audience with themes of identity, acceptance, and self-expression. Kimberly McCullough directed the pilot episode, bringing a new perspective to the live-action adaptation.
The series will continue Disney’s approach to incorporating themes of inclusivity and kindness, encouraging young viewers to embrace individuality and appreciate diversity. The live-action format of Vampirina is part of Disney Branded Television’s ongoing strategy to expand its lineup with music-driven, live-action comedies aimed at kid audiences, following recent announcements, including Wizards Beyond Waverly Place.
Vampirina’s live-action debut is part of a broader effort by Disney to reimagine animated favorites in new formats, offering fresh takes on familiar characters. Fans of the original series and new viewers alike will have the chance to follow Vee’s journey in this adaptation, set to bring a mix of fantasy, music, and coming-of-age themes to screens in 2025.
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