Gabby Duran & The Unsittables Stars Kylie Cantrall & Maxwell Acee Donovan on Sci-Fi Fun, Character Connections, and Disney Channel Dreams
Disney Channel’s latest sci-fi comedy sensation, Gabby Duran & the Unsittables, exploded onto screens on October 11th, quickly establishing itself as a fan favorite. Before even airing its premiere episode, the show’s undeniable charm and unique premise earned it an early Season 2 renewal, a testament to its immediate impact and Disney’s confidence in its future. The series thrusts viewers into the extraordinary life of 13-year-old Gabby Duran, portrayed by the talented Kylie Cantrall, who unexpectedly finds herself with the most unusual after-school job: babysitting a mischievous, yet endearing, group of VIP extraterrestrial children. These “unsittables” are covertly living on Earth, cleverly disguised as typical kids, adding a layer of cosmic chaos to everyday teenage life.
HollywoodLife had the exclusive opportunity to sit down with the show’s burgeoning stars, Kylie Cantrall and Maxwell Acee Donovan, to delve into what drew them to this imaginative world. Their insights revealed not just a passion for their roles but a profound connection to the show’s core themes of acceptance, individuality, and the extraordinary hiding in plain sight. They shared their experiences on set, the bonds forged with their co-stars, and the iconic Disney Channel figures who paved the way for their own burgeoning careers.
Embracing the Uniqueness: Kylie Cantrall as Gabby Duran
For Kylie Cantrall, the appeal of Gabby Duran & the Unsittables was rooted in its sheer originality and the opportunity to portray a character who celebrates her differences. “I just really like the uniqueness of it,” Kylie shared with HollywoodLife, emphasizing the show’s departure from conventional narratives. “Because I think that’s been a big thing for me. I think when I got this role, there was a connection there, that Gabby was also kind of an outsider.” This personal resonance allowed Kylie to imbue Gabby with an authenticity that shines through on screen. Gabby isn’t just different; she’s proudly, unapologetically herself, a trait that Kylie deeply admires.
Kylie further elaborated on Gabby’s compelling nature: “She really was so confident and not afraid to be different. I think that’s so dope that she really is just herself no matter what situation she’s in.” This unwavering self-acceptance is a powerful message for young audiences, teaching them the value of individuality in a world that often pressures conformity. Gabby’s journey is one of navigating complex extraterrestrial problems while maintaining her down-to-earth persona, making her a relatable and inspiring protagonist. Kylie’s portrayal captures Gabby’s wit, resilience, and her ability to find common ground with beings from across the galaxy, proving that being an outsider can be your greatest strength.
The Heart of Comedy: Maxwell Acee Donovan as Wesley
Maxwell Acee Donovan found an immediate kinship with his character, Wesley, recognizing parts of himself in the endearing, often comedic, role. “The second I read it, he just reminded me of me and Wesley has this sort of endearing quality,” Max recounted. Wesley, Gabby’s best friend, often finds himself caught in the hilarious crossfire of Gabby’s otherworldly responsibilities. His character provides a grounded, yet equally amusing, perspective to Gabby’s chaotic life. Max’s appreciation for Wesley’s charm is evident in his performance, making Wesley a memorable and lovable sidekick.
One of the most exciting aspects for Max was the opportunity to incorporate physical comedy into his role, drawing inspiration from a beloved comedic icon. “I loved the idea of being able to bring physical comedy — kind of like Chris Pratt on Parks & Recreation — to this character,” Max explained. This ambition is clearly realized in Wesley’s many predicaments, where his earnest attempts to help Gabby often lead to laugh-out-loud moments. Max’s commitment to this style of comedy adds a dynamic layer to Wesley, ensuring that he’s not just a sounding board for Gabby but a source of genuine entertainment and heartfelt loyalty. His ability to blend humor with genuine friendship makes Wesley an integral part of the show’s success.
A Unified Force: The Close-Knit Cast of Gabby Duran
Beyond the individual performances, the chemistry among the cast members of Gabby Duran & the Unsittables is palpable, translating into authentic on-screen relationships that elevate the show. The ensemble includes talented actors like Valery Ortiz, Coco Christo, Nathan Lovejoy, and Callan Ferris, all contributing to the vibrant world Gabby inhabits. Maxwell and Kylie both emphasized the profound bonds they’ve formed off-screen, describing their working environment as a true family affair. “We’re like a family,” Maxwell affirmed, highlighting the camaraderie that underpins their collaborative efforts.
Kylie shed more light on these relationships, particularly her bond with Coco Christo, who plays her younger sister, Olivia. “We’ve had sleepovers. Sometimes we stay home and we watch movies and just have fun with each other,” Kylie revealed. This genuine sisterly connection undoubtedly enhances their on-screen dynamic, making their sibling squabbles and moments of mutual support feel incredibly real. “We really love each other. It’s cool. We all have a really tight bond,” Kylie added, underscoring the supportive and joyful atmosphere that permeates the set. This genuine affection among the cast not only makes the show a joy to watch but also creates a positive and creative space for everyone involved.
Inspired by Legends: Disney Channel Role Models
As young stars rising within the Disney Channel ecosystem, both Kylie and Maxwell shared their inspirations from previous generations of Disney icons, reflecting on the lasting impact these figures had on their aspirations and careers. For Kylie Cantrall, the path was illuminated by none other than global superstar Zendaya. “For me, it was Zendaya,” Kylie told HollywoodLife, her admiration clear. “I met her and she was the sweetest person I’ve ever met.” This personal encounter only solidified Zendaya’s role as a mentor figure for Kylie.
Kylie’s connection to Zendaya goes beyond a simple fan appreciation; it’s rooted in a shared passion for performing. “I really had a connection with her because I’m a performer and that’s what I’ve been doing all my life. I watched Shake It Up and it was all about dancing and singing. She was really one of the people that really inspired me to be a dancer.” Zendaya’s journey from a Disney Channel dancer and singer to a critically acclaimed actress and fashion icon serves as a powerful testament to the possibilities within the entertainment industry, inspiring Kylie to pursue her multi-faceted talents with dedication and grace.
Maxwell Acee Donovan’s formative years were spent immersed in Disney Channel classics, much like many young viewers. Shows like Wizards of Waverly Place and Hannah Montana laid the foundation for his love of storytelling and performance. However, his most profound inspiration came from a personal mentorship with the late Disney Channel star, Cameron Boyce. “I got really lucky. Cameron Boyce, he mentored me in this,” Maxwell shared, reflecting on the invaluable guidance he received. Cameron, known for his roles in Jessie and Descendants, left an indelible mark on Maxwell.
“He just gave me tips on everything and how to go through life with an open mind and an open heart. I think that that really speaks to his character and I try to keep that in mind,” Max elaborated. Cameron’s legacy of kindness, professionalism, and genuine spirit continues to influence Maxwell’s approach to his craft and his life. The wisdom passed down from Cameron, particularly the emphasis on an open mind and heart, serves as a guiding principle for Maxwell as he navigates the complexities of Hollywood, striving to embody the positive character traits of his beloved mentor.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Unsittables
With a second season already greenlit, the future for Gabby Duran & the Unsittables looks incredibly bright. Fans can anticipate even more intergalactic adventures, heartwarming friendships, and plenty of laughs as Gabby continues to master her unique babysitting duties. The early renewal speaks volumes about the show’s potential to grow and explore new dimensions of its quirky universe, further developing the rich characters and intricate alien lore that have already captured the imagination of audiences.
As Kylie Cantrall and Maxwell Acee Donovan continue their journey with Gabby and Wesley, they carry with them not only their own burgeoning talents but also the inspiration drawn from those who came before them. Gabby Duran & the Unsittables is more than just a show about aliens; it’s a testament to the power of embracing differences, the strength of friendship, and the enduring magic of Disney storytelling. Its blend of humor, heart, and sci-fi wonder makes it a must-watch for families everywhere, solidifying its place as a cherished addition to the Disney Channel legacy.