Disney is making a strategic move into the rapidly growing micro-drama space with the debut of “Locker Diaries,” a vertical video series that brings together beloved characters from multiple franchises.
The entertainment giant launched this innovative short-form project on February 14th, offering fans a fresh way to engage with familiar faces from the Zombies, Descendants, and Phineas & Ferb universes. The format represents Disney’s response to the explosive growth of bite-sized content, particularly in markets like China where micro-dramas generated billions in revenue last year.
“Locker Diaries” breaks from traditional storytelling with its vertical viewing format and compact episodes. The series unfolds entirely within school settings, using the creative framing device of open locker doors to tell stories mixing comedy, dramatic elements, and suspense. The initial episodes focus on the Zombies franchise, featuring cast members from last year’s “Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires.” Actors Malachi Barton, Freya Skye, Swayam Bhatia, Julian Lerner, and Mekonnen Knife return to their established roles for these new adventures.
Disney is taking a multi-platform approach with the 11-episode series. New installments drop weekly on Saturdays through mid-April across Disney+, Disney Channel’s YouTube channel, Instagram, and TikTok. Traditional television viewers can catch episodes on Disney Channel next month, with on-demand availability as well. This distribution model reflects Disney’s broader strategy to meet audiences where they already spend time, particularly on mobile devices and social platforms.
The launch signals Disney’s acknowledgment of shifting viewing habits, especially among younger demographics. According to Erin Teague, Executive Vice President of Product Management for Disney Entertainment and ESPN, the company is exploring various approaches to vertical content, from original productions to reformatted existing material. Disney’s entry into this space follows the format’s remarkable success internationally, with the micro-drama market reaching significant scale in Asian markets. The company appears focused on making vertical video feel integrated rather than disconnected from its core streaming experience.
The series represents a testing ground for how legacy entertainment companies can adapt franchises for modern consumption patterns without abandoning the characters and stories that built their brands.