Every few years, a Disney star successfully bridges the gap between “child actor” and “leading man.” In 2025, that star is undoubtedly Malachi Barton. While fans first fell in love with him as the scrappy Beast Diaz in Stuck in the Middle, his journey to becoming the breakout lead of Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires wasn’t as easy as it looked on screen.
The “Vampire Training” Challenge
Much like Michelle Randolph’s “accent crisis” for Landman, Malachi faced a grueling transition for his role as Victor in Zombies 4. Beyond the heavy prosthetic fangs and pale makeup, Barton had to undergo three months of intensive wire-work and stunt training to perfect the “vampire glide.”
There were rumors early in production that the physical demands were so intense that the role might be scaled back. However, Barton leaned into the challenge, citing his athletic background and his desire to bring a “grittier, more mature edge” to the Zombies universe. The result? A performance that has been hailed as the highlight of the 2025 film.
Malachi Barton: 2025 Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Malachi Daniel Barton |
| Age (2025) | 18 Years Old |
| Birthday | March 10, 2007 |
| Height | 5’9″ |
| Nationality | American |
| Birthplace | Virginia Beach, VA |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, CA |
The American Idol Connection: A Musical Legacy
If you’ve noticed Malachi’s incredible vocals in Zombies 4 and his viral duet “Snow Angels” with Freya Skye, it’s because music is in his DNA. His mother, Felicia Barton, is a celebrated singer and songwriter who famously competed on American Idol Season 8.
Malachi has often credited his mother’s time on the Idol stage for his own work ethic. “Watching her navigate the music industry taught me that talent is only half the battle,” Malachi shared in a recent press junket. “You have to have the heart to match.”
The Dating Rumors: Freya Skye vs. “Kariana” Greenblatt
As Malachi’s star has risen, so has interest in his private life. In late 2025, the internet was convinced he was dating his Zombies 4 co-star, Freya Skye. Their undeniable chemistry on the Worlds Collide Tour fueled thousands of fan edits.
However, Malachi also maintains a legendary friendship with Ariana Greenblatt (frequently searched by fans as Kariana Greenblatt). Having grown up together on the set of Stuck in the Middle, the two are often spotted together in LA. While fans love to speculate, Malachi has confirmed he is currently single, though he remains “best friends” with both leading ladies.
Malachi Barton Movies and TV Shows: The 2025 List
- Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires (2025) – Victor
- The Villains of Valley View – Colby Madden
- Under Wraps 1 & 2 – Marshall
- Dora and the Lost City of Gold – Young Diego
- Stuck in the Middle – Beast Diaz
- Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour – Himself
What’s Next for Malachi?
With his newfound status as a triple threat—actor, singer, and dancer—Malachi is rumored to be eyeing a role in the upcoming Descendants spin-off series. For now, he is focusing on his original music, with an EP expected to drop in early 2026.
FAQs’
How old is Malachi Barton?
Malachi Barton is 18 years old. He celebrated his milestone 18th birthday on March 10, 2025, marking his transition into adult roles in Hollywood.
Is Malachi Barton Mexican?
No. Despite playing several prominent Latino characters—including Young Diego in Dora and the Lost City of Gold and Beast Diaz in Stuck in the Middle—Malachi is American. He has expressed immense pride in being able to represent diverse characters and cultures throughout his career.
How tall is Malachi Barton?
Malachi stands at 5’9″. He has undergone a significant growth spurt since his early Disney Channel days, now standing as a commanding lead in the cast of Zombies 4.
