Mekonnen Knife (also known as MK) is an Ethiopian-born Australian actor, dancer, model, television host, and singer.
He is best known for portraying Vargas in Disney’s ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires. After years of working as a child performer and television host in Australia, he gained international recognition through Disney and has become one of Australia’s fastest-rising young actors.
Essential Data
- Full Name: Mekonnen Knife
- Stage Name: Mekonnen Knife
- Born: July 6, 2006
- Age: 20 years old
- Birthplace: Gerje Gefersa, Ethiopia
- Occupation: Actor, Dancer, Model, Television Host, Singer
- Nationality: Australian
- Height: 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)
- Ethnicity: Ethiopian
- Religion: Christianity
- Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Knife
- Siblings: Berhani Knife (Twin Sister)
- Spouse: None
- Children: None
- Relationship: Single
- Net Worth: $1 million USD
Early Life and Education
Mekonnen Knife was born on July 6, 2006, in Gerje Gefersa, Ethiopia. He was raised by Mr. and Mrs. Knife, who adopted him and his siblings before relocating the family to Australia. He is of Ethiopian ethnicity and grew up alongside his twin sister, Berhani Knife.
At the age of seven, he moved to the Gold Coast, Queensland, where he developed a passion for dance and performance.
Before pursuing acting professionally, he trained at Dynamite Studios, studying various styles of dance and performing arts.
Career
Mekonnen Knife began his entertainment career as a child model and performer before landing the role of Wolfie at Dracula’s Cabaret on the Gold Coast when he was just 12 years old.
He later became the host of Network 10’s Shake Takes, introducing young audiences to entertainment news and behind-the-scenes content.
His television appearances also included roles in Reef Break, Joe vs. Carole, and The Dog Days of Christmas, steadily building his acting résumé.
Mekonnen’s breakthrough came in 2025 after being cast as Vargas in Disney’s ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires, a role that introduced him to a global audience. The film also showcased his singing and dancing abilities through several soundtrack performances.
In 2026, he received the inaugural AACTA Rabanne Breakthrough Artist Award, recognizing him as one of Australia’s most promising young acting talents. His officially announced upcoming projects include Zombies 5, which is currently in development.
Awards and Nominations
- AACTA Awards (2026) – Rabanne Breakthrough Artist Award – Winner
Social Media
- Instagram: @mekonnen_official
- TikTok: @mekonnenknife
- YouTube Channel: Mekonnen Knife
Personal Life
Mekonnen Knife, 20, is believed to be single. There are no verified reports of any past relationships. He has no children and stands approximately 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) tall.
He has also expressed his love for Australia’s Gold Coast and has stated that he intends to continue living there while travelling internationally for acting opportunities.
Net Worth
Mekonnen Knife has a net worth of $1 million USD. His income is primarily generated through acting, television hosting, modelling, music performances, brand partnerships, and public appearances. His successful transition into Disney productions has significantly contributed to his growing career and financial success.
Filmography
- ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires (2025)
- Zombies 5 (Upcoming)
Television
- Reef Break
- Shake Takes – Host
- The Dog Days of Christmas
- Joe vs. Carole