IN CONVERSATION WITH MILO MANHEIM

interview by JANA LETONJA

Milo Manheim is entering 2026 in full stride. From the cult-favorite supernatural series School Spirits, returning for its highly anticipated third season, to record-breaking musical theater runs and blockbuster Disney franchises, Milo has built a career defined by versatility, charisma, and creative fearlessness. With School Spirits expanding its audience across Paramount+ and Netflix, a producing credit on ZOMBIES 4, and a year marked by standout performances on stage and screen, he continues to evolve far beyond the teen-star label, emerging as one of his generation’s most dynamic performers.

full look PRADA
jewellery SHAY FINE JEWELRY

jacket MILLI PAINT TWO
suit KING & TUCKFIELD
shirt and tie stylist's own
rings SHAY FINE JEWELRY

School Spirits has grown with every season. What do you think keeps audiences so invested in the show?

I think people stay engaged because the show keeps adapting. I love that the writers assume the best of the viewers, they don’t dumb anything down, and go for uniquely bold ideas every episode.

How does season three raise the emotional and narrative stakes for your character, and what can fans expect that will surprise them?

On one hand, Wally is going on a very individual journey this season. Now that he and Maddie are no longer in the same world, he doesn’t know his purpose. On the other hand, he is embarking on an adventure that could dictate the fates of people all around the world, dead or alive.

cardigan TOMMY HILFIGER
boxers DOLCE & GABBANA
necklace and ring SAMRA

What was it like watching the series find a whole new audience on Netflix?

I was grateful the show found itself on Netflix. It was great for us because it definitely generated a lot of buzz for the show during season 1, but also great for the world in that more people got to see it. It truly is a heartwarming show for how dark and spooky it is.

You’ve balanced television, film, and theater seamlessly. How do you decide where to focus your energy?

It feels as if the decision is made for me. I was so grateful I was able to transition to theater, and hopefully back again. Everything in this industry is a perfect storm. Everything needs to work out perfectly to fall into place. I am just grateful that so many beautiful perfect storms have happened.

Does it feel different stepping into projects now with producing experience under your belt?

It honestly feels better in every way. While it is a bit more stressful knowing the limit to your resources, that’s also what makes the job interesting. I feel like I am constantly solving. Also as an actor, it really calms my nerves. When you are going into an audition, it is natural to think everyone in that room doesn’t like the performance that you’re giving. Maybe it’s our way of protecting ourselves, but it happens all the time. Being a producer has taught me that it is never the case. If you are in the audition room, you deserve to be there and people are excited to see you.

jeans LEVI'S
belt vintage
rings SHAY FINE JEWELRY

You’ve had an incredible run on stage, from American Idiot to Little Shop of Horrors, what does theatre give you that screen work doesn’t?

Human connection. Film and TV allows for the viewer to feel deeply connected, but I think theater allows the actor to be equally connected. It just feels so alive. There is nothing comparable to the feeling of live theatre.

From musical theater to horror to rom-coms, you move easily between genres. What excites you about switching lanes?

To be honest, I don’t even think about genres that much. I just think about the character I’m about to play and if I connect with them somehow. I think in that way it has kept me open minded to be a part of any genre.

cardigan GOODFIGHT
tank top PIERRE BLANC
jeans LEVI'S
belt vintage
necklace and bracelet MATEO NY
rings SHAY FINE JEWELRY

At this stage in your career, how do you see yourself evolving as an artist?

I’m trying to do more of the things that really interest me. It can be tough in this industry, when you feel like you don’t really have a say in what you are a part of, but I am just lucky I get to do roles I really love.

How do you stay grounded while juggling such high-profile, fast-moving projects?

I’m not going to lie, it can be difficult. Mostly, I just never want to say the wrong thing. I don’t want to spoil anything, badmouth anyone, or just say something I shouldn’t. It’s a critical world out there and it’s hard not to be self-conscious when everything you do is looked at so carefully. Having said that, I love being a representative to share the excitement of the projects I’m a part of.

What inspires you creatively outside of acting?

When people are passionate about something. I get inspired by watching people be inspired.

Are there roles or stories you’re itching to explore next?

I’m just looking forward to playing one of my favorite characters of all time, Flynn Rider.

cardigan LA PERE
shirt GOODFIGHT
trousers CAROLINE SARRIA
boots DR. MARTENS
necklace and rings via Brooklyn PR
sunglasses ANDRE MONTANA

TEAM CREDITS:

talent MILO MANHEIM
photography DYLAN PERLOT at Exclusive Artists
styling AMANDA LIM at The Only Agency
hair and makeup CATHERINE FURNISS at Statement Artists
editor TIMOTEJ LETONJA
editorial director and interview JANA LETONJA