Disney Channel Sets 'Zombies' Original Movie

Disney Channel has tapped Dear White People producer Effie Brown to serve as executive producer of the network’s new original movie, Zombies, the network said Thursday. 

The movie, which will air in 2018, will follow unfolding events at a quiet suburban high school after a group of transfer students from nearby Zombietown integrate into the school, according to network officials.

The movie stars Meg Donnelly (American Housewife), Milo Manheim (Ghost Whisperer), Trevor Tordjman (The Next Step) Kylee Russell (Jump In) and Carla Jeffery (Curb Your Enthusiasm).

Along with Brown, Zombies will be executively produced Jeffrey Hornaday, who will also serve as director, as well as choreographer along with Christopher Scott (Teen Beach Movie). 

"We're thrilled to be working with Jeffrey Hornaday again to bring this new world of zombies and cheerleading to life,” said Adam Bonnett, executive vice president, Original Programming, Disney Channels Worldwide in a statement. “Jeffrey and Chris Scott have delivered some of our most memorable musical sequences on Disney Channel; and now with Effie Brown on board as an executive producer, we are excited to deliver this inspirational story about tolerance, inclusion, individuality and conviction – each relatable themes for our viewers."

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.