Descendants: The Rise of Red's Cliffhanger Ending Explained

Exclusive Interview with Kylie Cantrall, Malia Baker, and Dara Reneé

Former Villain Kid Uma Takes Over as Auradon Prep Headmaster

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Kylie Cantrall, Malia Baker, and Dara Reneé discussed the cliffhanger ending of Disney's upcoming musical fantasy film, "Descendants: The Rise of Red." The film, directed by Jennifer Phang and written by Dan Frey and Russell Sommer, follows the daughter of Mal, the former queen of the Isle of the Lost, as she navigates her new life at Auradon Prep.

At the end of the film, it is revealed that Uma, the former villain kid who was once Mal's rival, has become the new headmaster of Auradon Prep. This surprising twist has left fans wondering what the future holds for the beloved characters of the "Descendants" franchise.

"It was definitely a shock," said Cantrall, who plays Red, Mal's daughter. "I think fans will be really excited to see how Uma's story unfolds." Baker, who plays Mal, described the ending as "bittersweet." "It's sad to see Mal step down as headmaster, but I think Uma will do a great job," she said.

Reneé, who plays Uma, said she was "thrilled" to take on the role of headmaster. "I think it's a great opportunity for Uma to show that she's not the villain everyone thinks she is," she said. "She's a strong and capable leader, and I think she's going to do great things for Auradon Prep."