IN CONVERSATION WITH MEKONNEN KNIFE

interview by JANA LETONJA

Australian actor Mekonnen Knife is set to star in Disney’s highly anticipated film ‘Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires’, which will premiere on 10th July on Disney Channel and stream the next day on Disney+. Mekonnen will also embark on the ‘Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour’, a one-of-a-kind interactive live concert experience, coming to arenas across North America, and kicking off on 17th July.

You will be playing Vargas, a lovable vampire, in ‘Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires’. How did you prepare to bring this fun character to life?

 To bring Vargas to life, I really leaned into both his heart and his humor. He’s the kind of friend who’ll crack a joke at the perfect moment, but also be the first to check in if something’s off. He’s loyal, protective, and always trying to keep the group together, all through a sarcastic remark or a cheeky smile. I had a lot of fun finding that balance between being the emotional glue and the comic relief. He’s got layers, and I wanted people to feel that even while they’re laughing with him.

What can the fans expect from this film, without giving too much away?

 Fans can expect big energy, and moments that really bring ‘Zombies 4’ to life. There’s action, heart, and a lot of fun, but also some deeper themes about identity, unity, and friendship. It still has that Disney magic, but with a fresh twist.

What was it like joining the ‘Zombies’ franchise, which has such a passionate fanbase?

 It was honestly such a cool experience. The’ Zombies’ fanbase is super passionate and welcoming, and you can really feel how much the story means to people. Joining something that already has so much love behind it was a little nerve-wracking at first, but everyone, from the cast to the fans, made it feel like home. I just wanted to bring my best to it and add something new while still respecting what’s already there.

Vargas is described as the glue that holds his friends together. Do you see any of yourself in him?

 Absolutely. Like Vargas, I’ve often been the one who keeps my friend group connected. I care a lot about loyalty and being there for the people I care about. Watching how Vargas supports his friends reminded me of myself and how I try to be that kind of person too. It made me think about how important those roles are, even if they don’t always get noticed.

You’re also about to embark on the ‘Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour’. What can fans expect from your performances?

 Fans can expect a lot of energy, fun, and surprises. We’ve been working hard in the studio to make the performances exciting and full of moments that bring both the ‘Descendants’ and ‘Zombies’ worlds together in a big way. There’s singing, dancing, and some really cool moments you won’t want to miss. It’s going to be an amazing show and I can’t wait for everyone to see it.

As someone who’s a dancer, singer, and comedian, how do you blend those talents in a live arena show?

 For me, it’s all about having fun and bringing the crowd into the experience. I love making people smile, so I try to use all my talents to give the audience a good time from start to finish. It’s going to be the best time ever. 

What excites you most about performing live across North America alongside fellow Disney stars?

What excites me most is the energy. There’s nothing like being in front of a live crowd, especially with fans who’ve grown up watching these movies. Getting to perform with other Disney stars, who are also my friends, just makes it even more special. We all bring something different to the stage, and I think people are going to feel that connection. It’s about celebrating the music, the characters, and the fans who’ve supported us all this time.

 You started dancing at age 12 and trained extensively, even landing roles in ballet productions. How has your dance background influenced your acting?

 Acting actually came before dance for me, even though I’ve always loved dancing. Both are just different ways I express myself. Whether it’s through movement or emotions, I’m always trying to tell a story. Dance has helped me a lot with things like timing, focus, and how I use my body in a scene.

You’ve been outspoken about diversity and equality in creative spaces. How do you see the industry evolving, and what changes would you still like to see?

I’d love to see more Black actors, and other underrepresented groups, in lead roles. Not in the background, but at the center of the story. Disney’s done a great job with diversity, showing that stories led by people from all kinds of backgrounds can connect with everyone. But there’s still more to be done, especially behind the scenes. We need more diverse voices in writing, directing, and in leadership roles so the stories being told truly reflect the world we live in.

Mental health advocacy is close to your heart. How do you use your platform to support this cause?

I think there’s still a lot of shame around mental health, especially for teens and young adults. A lot of us end up hiding what we’re going through instead of getting the help we need. For me, talking to someone I trust and going to counselling has been a really healthy step. It’s helped me understand my feelings, work through tough emotions, and see a way forward. I haven’t made a big campaign out of it, but I do try to use my platform by being real and spreading positivity. I think just showing up as myself, open, joyful, and honest, helps others feel like they can do the same. And that matters.

When you’re not working, you enjoy skateboarding and spending time with your two cavoodles. How do these hobbies help you unwind?

They help me get out of my head and just be in the moment. Skateboarding is physical, and anything active like that really helps clear your mind. It’s great for mental health. And my dogs?  They’re all love, no judgment. You can’t beat that kind of energy when you need to relax and reset.

You’re involved in charitable work, including supporting the Grace Center Foundation in Ethiopia. What motivates your activism?

I was born in Ethiopia, and my parents, who adopted me and my sister when we were babies, co-founded and ran Grace Center in Bahir Dar for the first seven years. So, I grew up there, seeing children and families get support they need with things like food, shelter, education, and medical care. Being part of that from such a young age shaped how I see the world. I’ve been given so much love and opportunity, and I’d love to see other kids in tough situations get the same kind of support, especially in their own countries, without having to leave home to find it.

CREDITS

photography JSQUARED PHOTOGRAPHY