Milo Manheim’s Shocking Transformation: Inside His ‘Little Shop Of Horrors’ Run And Why Fans Are Obsessed
Milo Manheim has successfully made the leap from Disney Channel star to acclaimed Off-Broadway lead, a transition that has stunned and delighted theater critics and fans alike. As of the current date, December 22, 2025, the actor, best known for his role as Zed in the *Zombies* franchise, is currently starring as the mild-mannered, yet secretly bloodthirsty, florist Seymour Krelborn in the smash-hit revival of *Little Shop of Horrors* in New York City.
This highly-anticipated casting has breathed new life into the beloved horror-comedy musical, with Manheim bringing a fresh, energetic, and uniquely nerdy take to the iconic role of Seymour. His run, alongside co-star Elizabeth Gillies, has been so popular that it has been extended due to overwhelming demand, solidifying his status as a serious theatrical talent beyond his screen work.
Milo Manheim: Full Biography and Profile
Milo Manheim is a second-generation actor whose career has rapidly ascended from musical theater roots to major film and television roles, now circling back to the stage with a critically praised performance.
- Full Name: Milo Jacob Manheim
- Date of Birth: March 6, 2001
- Age (as of Dec 2025): 24 years old
- Place of Birth: Venice, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
- Parents: Camryn Manheim (Mother, Emmy Award-winning actress) and Jeffrey Brezovar (Father, former model)
- Notable TV/Film Roles:
- Zed Necrodopolis in the Disney Channel Original Movie franchise *Zombies* (2018, 2020, 2022)
- Wally Clark in the Paramount+ original series *School Spirits*
- Appeared in *Ghost Whisperer* and *Platonic*
- Reality TV: Runner-up on Season 27 of *Dancing with the Stars* (2018)
- Previous Theater: Starred in the Deaf West stage production of *American Sign Language (ASL) Spring Awakening*
The Off-Broadway Phenomenon: Manheim as Seymour Krelborn
The casting of Milo Manheim as Seymour Krelborn in the Off-Broadway revival of *Little Shop of Horrors* at the Westside Theatre was a significant, high-profile move that paid off handsomely. The production, which has been playing since 2019, is a celebrated revival of the classic musical by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman.
Manheim took over the role of the hapless florist who discovers the carnivorous plant Audrey II, and his performance has been described as "showstopping." The role requires a delicate balance of earnestness, comedic timing, and a descent into moral compromise, all of which Manheim handles with impressive skill.
Critics have been quick to praise his unique interpretation, noting that he is a natural at conveying the "witty, funny, and nerdy aspects" of Seymour’s character. His physical comedy, a skill honed through his dance background on *Dancing with the Stars* and his high-energy film roles, is a standout feature of the performance. One reviewer called his presence a "master class in comedy performance."
The chemistry between Manheim and his co-star, Elizabeth Gillies (known for *Victorious* and *Dynasty*), who plays the object of Seymour’s affection, Audrey, is a core part of the show's success. Their joint extension through Sunday, June 1, 2025, is a clear testament to the popular demand for this specific pairing.
Why Manheim’s Seymour is a Must-See Interpretation
The enduring popularity of *Little Shop of Horrors* lies in its campy horror, catchy tunes like "Suddenly, Seymour," and its dark satire of the American Dream. Manheim’s portrayal brings several fresh elements to the table that distinguish it from previous iterations, including the original 1986 film starring Rick Moranis.
Mastery of Physical Comedy and Nuance
Manheim’s background in high-energy roles and dance allows him to inject a vibrant, almost cartoonish energy into Seymour, perfectly fitting the musical's dark comedy tone. His performance utilizes "great physical comedy," which enhances the character's awkwardness and escalating panic as he is forced to feed the increasingly demanding Audrey II. This physical expressiveness makes his descent from mild-mannered flower shop employee on Skid Row to reluctant murderer all the more compelling and humorous.
A Deep Dive into Seymour's Nerdy Heart
Unlike some portrayals that lean heavily into Seymour’s meekness, Manheim finds the "nerdy" core of the character, making him incredibly relatable to a modern audience. He portrays Seymour as a genuinely good-hearted person trapped by circumstance, making the audience root for him even as his actions become morally questionable. This emotional depth is crucial for the show's central romance with Audrey and the ultimate tragedy of the story.
The Power of "Stunt Casting" Done Right
The New York theater scene often employs "stunt casting"—bringing in well-known screen actors to boost ticket sales. In Manheim's case, however, critics and fans agree that this is a case of talent matching fame. His previous theater experience, including the demanding Deaf West production of *Spring Awakening*, proves he is a serious stage actor. His name recognition from the *Zombies* franchise simply brought a new, younger audience to the Off-Broadway revival, which is a massive win for musical theater.
The Legacy of the Off-Broadway Revival
The current production of *Little Shop of Horrors* is a multi-award-winning show, having secured the 2020 Drama League, Outer Critics Circle, and Drama Desk Awards for Best Musical Revival. Manheim’s casting is part of a tradition of rotating, high-caliber talent that keeps the show fresh and relevant.
The intimate setting of the Westside Theatre, a cozy venue, allows the audience to feel deeply connected to the drama unfolding, making the horror and the humor feel immediate. The success of Manheim’s run, which is extended through early summer 2025, continues to prove that the story of a man, a girl, and a blood-drinking plant remains one of musical theater’s most enduring and beloved classics.
For fans of Milo Manheim, seeing him on the Off-Broadway stage is a rare opportunity to witness a young star truly stretch his dramatic and comedic muscles. His transition from the fantastical world of zombies to the dark, satirical streets of Skid Row is not just a career move; it's a powerful statement about his versatility as an actor.
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