7 Shocking Facts About Chandler Kinney's Career Trajectory And Latest Projects (2025 Update)

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Chandler Kinney, the dynamic American actress, singer, and dancer, continues to solidify her status as one of Hollywood's most versatile young stars, balancing major franchise roles with impactful social advocacy. As of December 23, 2025, the spotlight is firmly on her transition from the canceled, yet critically acclaimed, *Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin* to a highly anticipated return to the world of the undead in the Disney franchise, *Zombies*.

Kinney, who first captivated audiences as the fierce werewolf Willa Lykensen and later as the aspiring filmmaker Tabby Haworthe, has recently been vocal about the abrupt end of her Max series, while simultaneously preparing for her next big-screen venture. This comprehensive profile dives deep into her current projects, her philanthropic work, and the career milestones that define her journey today.

Chandler Kinney: Complete Biography and Profile

Chandler Kinney is a multi-talented performer whose career spans major television dramas, blockbuster musical franchises, and meaningful non-profit work. Below is a detailed look at her life and professional achievements.

  • Full Name: Chandler Kinney
  • Date of Birth: August 3, 2000
  • Age (as of 2025): 25 years old
  • Place of Birth: Sacramento, California, U.S.
  • Occupation: Actress, Singer, Dancer, Producer
  • Known For: Willa Lykensen in the *Z-O-M-B-I-E-S* film series, Tabby Haworthe in *Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin* (also known as *Pretty Little Liars: Summer School*), and Riana Murtaugh in *Lethal Weapon*.
  • Education: Pursued higher education while working, often citing the challenge of balancing schoolwork and a demanding filming schedule.
  • Non-Profit Work: Founder of "Chandler's Friends," a non-profit organization dedicated to serving children in need.
  • Debut Role: Appeared in the TV series *90210* (2012).
  • Notable Filmography:
    • *Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin* (2022–2024) as Tabby Haworthe
    • *Zombies 3* (2022) as Willa Lykensen
    • *Zombies 2* (2020) as Willa Lykensen
    • *Lethal Weapon* (2016–2019) as Riana Murtaugh
    • *K.C. Undercover* (2015) as Casey's Friend
    • *Girl Meets World* (2014) as Vanessa
    • *Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires* (Upcoming) as Willa Lykensen

The Shocking Cancellation of Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin

One of the most significant and frustrating pieces of news for Chandler Kinney and her fanbase in 2024/2025 was the cancellation of the Max series, *Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin*, after just two seasons. The show, which was creatively rebranded as *Pretty Little Liars: Summer School* for its second season, was a dark, critically praised reboot of the original Freeform hit.

Kinney's Frustration Over the Abrupt Ending

Kinney, who played the intelligent and cinema-obsessed Tabby Haworthe, has publicly shared her disappointment and frustration regarding the show's cancellation. She and the cast were deeply invested in the horror-slasher narrative and the complex character arcs they had developed. The cancellation was particularly jarring for the cast and crew, who felt they had built a strong, unique world within the *Pretty Little Liars* universe.

  • The Tabby Haworthe Legacy: Kinney's character, Tabby, was praised for addressing serious themes, including trauma and filmmaking, with a compelling blend of vulnerability and strength.
  • The "A" Mystery: The series was known for its intense mystery and slasher elements, successfully reviving the tension of the original show for a new generation.
  • A Critical Success: Despite its short run, the series garnered positive reviews, making the decision by Max to cancel it a surprising move that left many storylines unresolved.

The experience highlights the often-unpredictable nature of the streaming landscape, where critical acclaim does not always guarantee longevity. Kinney’s reaction has resonated with fans and industry observers alike, who saw the potential for a long-running hit.

Returning to Seabrook: Updates on Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires

While the door closed on Millwood, a new one has opened back up in Seabrook. Chandler Kinney is set to reprise her beloved role as Willa Lykensen in the next installment of the Disney Channel franchise, *Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires*. This return is a major focal point of her career in 2025 and beyond, offering a stark contrast to the dark themes of *Pretty Little Liars*.

Willa Lykensen's Enduring Popularity

Willa Lykensen, the strong-willed leader of the feral werewolves, has been a fan-favorite since her introduction in *Zombies 2*. Her character is a powerful symbol of community, loyalty, and embracing one's differences—core themes of the *Zombies* franchise. The films are known for their catchy musical numbers, energetic choreography, and positive messages about inclusion.

  • The New Chapter: *Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires* promises to introduce a new supernatural element (vampires) to the town of Seabrook, meaning Willa and the werewolves will likely play a crucial role in navigating this new dynamic.
  • Musical Prowess: Kinney's background as a dancer and singer is fully utilized in the *Zombies* films, allowing her to showcase her full range of performance skills.
  • Franchise Longevity: The continuation of the *Zombies* series demonstrates the enduring commercial success of the Disney Channel Original Movie format, securing Kinney's presence in a major global franchise.

The anticipation for *Zombies 4* is high, especially following the successful launch of *Zombies 3* on Disney+, and it represents an exciting new chapter for Kinney's work with the Disney Channel.

Beyond the Screen: Chandler's Friends and Philanthropy

Chandler Kinney is not just an actress; she is also a dedicated philanthropist and social advocate. Her commitment to giving back is channeled through her non-profit organization, "Chandler's Friends."

The Mission of Chandler's Friends

Founded by Kinney, Chandler's Friends is a non-profit organization focused on serving children and families in need. The organization often hosts events, drives, and initiatives aimed at providing resources, comfort, and positive experiences for underprivileged youth. This work adds another layer of topical authority to her public profile, showcasing her maturity and dedication beyond her acting roles.

  • Focus on Youth: The organization's primary goal is to empower and support children, particularly those facing difficult circumstances.
  • Community Impact: Through various campaigns, Chandler's Friends actively works to make a tangible difference in the lives of local communities.
  • Role Model Status: Kinney uses her platform to encourage other young people to get involved in community service and philanthropy, cementing her status as a positive role model.

This commitment to advocacy is a consistent element of her interviews, where she often discusses the importance of using one's voice for good, a theme that echoes the messages of acceptance and unity found in her work on the *Zombies* franchise.

Future Aspirations and Industry Recognition

As she moves forward in her career, Chandler Kinney continues to be recognized by the industry. Her attendance at high-profile events, such as the 2025 Variety Power Of Young Hollywood event, underscores her rising star power and influence.

Kinney has also expressed interest in the evolution of her career, including exploring opportunities to work with major studios like Marvel and taking on more complex, adult-oriented roles. Her experience as a producer and writer, which she showcased early in her career, suggests a long-term goal of taking on more creative control behind the camera. Her ability to balance demanding TV schedules (like her time on *Lethal Weapon* and *Pretty Little Liars*) while pursuing her education demonstrates an incredible work ethic and ambition that will undoubtedly lead to more exciting projects in the coming years.

chandler kinney
chandler kinney

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