This summer marks the eagerly anticipated arrival of a new Disney Channel Original Movie, plunging audiences into a world where zombies and vampires coexist. Seven years after its initial debut, the beloved Zombies franchise has expanded significantly, now encompassing multiple sequels and an animated adaptation. The latest chapter, \"Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires,\" is set to premiere on the Disney Channel on July 10th, followed by its Disney+ release the next day. The narrative continues the adventures of Zed, a zombie, and Addison, an alien, as they find themselves embroiled in an epic conflict between Daywalkers and vampires.

Malachi Barton, a fresh face to the series, takes on the role of Victor, a vampire whose upbringing instilled a deep-seated animosity towards Daywalkers. However, Victor's inherent curiosity leads him to question these ingrained beliefs. As Malachi explains, Victor embarks on a journey of self-discovery, realizing that what he's been taught might not align with reality. With the assistance of Nova, played by Freya Skye, Victor endeavors to unite the disparate communities, working towards a shared objective. Malachi emphasizes that \"Zombies 4\" powerfully conveys themes of unity and affection, resonating with both children and adults. He also notes the captivating musical scores that are sure to leave a lasting impression and encourage repeated viewings.

Malachi, who celebrated his eighteenth birthday in March, began his acting career at the tender age of five. His parents, Felicia and Loren, have been his unwavering support system throughout this journey. Felicia recounts their initial approach to nurturing his talent, ensuring his early years in Hollywood felt more like play. As Malachi matured, he became more actively involved in his career decisions, shifting his parents into a more supportive, assistant-like capacity. Felicia, a gifted singer and songwriter, found particular joy in witnessing her son embrace singing and dancing during the filming of \"Zombies 4,\" an unexpected yet delightful development. The production took place in New Zealand, where the cast dedicated four weeks to choreography rehearsals, a challenging yet ultimately rewarding experience. Malachi fondly recalls the vibrant atmosphere, enjoying concerts, exploring Auckland, savoring local cuisine, and bonding with his fellow cast and crew members. Felicia expressed immense pride in Malachi's dedication, highlighting that his commitment to this role surpassed any previous endeavor, leading to a truly remarkable performance.

To foster well-rounded development in aspiring young artists, it is crucial to ensure they engage in activities beyond their professional pursuits that provide a sense of normalcy and grounding. For instance, Malachi maintained friendships with non-actors and participated in a baseball team, which offered him a vital connection to everyday life. Felicia, who hosts a podcast centered on managing a child's career, advises parents to surround themselves with a trustworthy team who prioritize the child's well-being. Above all, she emphasizes that parents should never relinquish their fundamental role as a parent, as this remains the most paramount responsibility. Looking ahead, Malachi is slated to participate in the DZ Worlds Collide tour, spanning 43 cities over nine weeks, where he will perform songs and dances from both the \"Descendants\" and \"Zombies\" franchises, promising an exciting spectacle for fans.