The latest addition to the Disney Channel Original Movie franchise, "Camp Rock 3," has generated buzz not only for its new cast but also for surprise cameos from familiar faces, including Milo Manheim and Demi Lovato.
Demi Lovato, who starred as Mitchie Torres in the original "Camp Rock" films, returns in "Camp Rock 3" as an executive producer and makes a guest appearance. Her return was confirmed shortly before the film's premiere on Disney+. In the movie, Lovato's character Mitchie is seen supporting the new protagonist, Sage (Liamani Segura), offering encouragement and a familiar one-liner about Sage's performance. Mitchie also reunites with the Jonas Brothers, who reprise their roles as Connect 3, as they discuss the competition's finalists.
Milo Manheim, known for his role as Zed in Disney's "Zombies" franchise, also makes a notable cameo. He is introduced as Calvin Rhodes, a former Camp Rocker who achieved success, mirroring the paths of Mitchie and Connect 3. Manheim's appearance occurs during the Camp Rock Songwriting Workshop, where he shares a scene with "Zombies" co-star Malachi Barton, who plays the character Fletch in "Camp Rock 3." Director Veronica Rodriguez noted that Manheim's cameo was a "really fun, meaningful cameo."
The cameos have sparked a range of reactions from fans online. Many expressed excitement and nostalgia over seeing Lovato and Manheim in the "Camp Rock" universe. Some viewers, however, questioned the dialogue and script of the film, with one critic likening it to being written by AI.
Despite some critique, the film aims to bridge the original "Camp Rock" audience with new viewers. Lovato's character ultimately passes the torch to the new generation of campers, concluding with a heartwarming moment where she and Sage share a smile and a wave. "Camp Rock 3" is currently available for streaming on Disney+.