The Camp Rock franchise holds a special place in the hearts of many Disney Channel fans. When the first film debuted in 2008, it introduced viewers to Demi Lovato as Mitchie Torres, a girl with a powerful voice and a big dream of performing at the prestigious Camp Rock. The film’s infectious songs, combined with an all-star cast including the Jonas Brothers, quickly made it a fan favorite and launched Lovato into superstardom.
But, what many might not know is that while the first film captivated audiences, its sequel, Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam, was equally beloved, and both films secured their places in the Disney Channel Original Movie Hall of Fame.
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Now, nearly a decade later, fans have been treated to the announcement they’ve been waiting for. On September 17, 2025, Disney confirmed that Camp Rock 3 is finally happening! The new movie will see the Jonas Brothers return to their roles as the band Connect 3, as they search for a new opening act for their reunion tour. But despite the return of these beloved stars, there is one noticeable absence from the upcoming film.
Alyson Stoner (who uses they/them pronouns), who portrayed Mitchie’s best friend Caitlyn in the original Camp Rock films, recently revealed that they won’t be returning for the third installment of the franchise. The news came as a surprise to many, and Stoner admitted that they didn’t even know that Camp Rock 3 was in the works until the announcement was made public.
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Stoner gave an interview to E! News during a panel at the 2025 Teen Vogue Summit on September 20, three days after the Camp Rock 3 news broke.
I haven't heard anything beyond that,” Alyson exclusively told E! News Sept. 20—three days after the film was announced—during a panel at the 2025 Teen Vogue Summit, “but that sounds exciting.”
“I'm guessing it'll be maybe similar to what they did with High School Musical, where maybe they introduce a new generation,” the Cheaper by the Dozen alum said. “That's what I'm assuming. But cool. Sounds great.
Although Stoner was left out of the new film, they remain supportive of the new direction the Camp Rock franchise is taking. Stoner hasn’t been directly involved with the film’s production, but they do seem hopeful for its success, stating, “Let me know if you need a coordinator on set.”
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Stoner's career continues to flourish beyond Camp Rock. They have made significant contributions to Disney, including playing Max in The Suite Life of Zack & Cody, voicing characters in Lilo & Stitch: The Series and Phineas and Ferb, and starring in the Step Up film franchise.
Most recently, Stoner has focused on their mental health company, Movement Genius, which they founded in 2020.
Despite their packed schedule, Stoner expressed a deep love for helping others through their work, which keeps them grounded in their personal mission of supporting mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
With Camp Rock 3 officially in the works, many fans are eagerly anticipating how the Jonas Brothers will bring their characters back to Camp Rock. While the return of the band is certain, the absence of Demi Lovato as Mitchie — who will serve as an executive producer but not appear in front of the camera — has left some wondering about the future of the beloved characters from the first two films.
For Stoner, though, the focus seems to be more on personal growth and creating positive change. They’ve reflected on their time in the Disney world fondly but are now embracing the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. “I just want to help people,” Stoner says, explaining their work with Movement Genius. “But I’m also grateful for everything I’ve done, and Camp Rock will always have a special place in my heart.”
What do you think about Camp Rock 3? Are you excited for the new generation of campers, or are you disappointed that Alyson Stoner and Demi Lovato won’t be returning? What original stars do you hope to see in the film? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
