It seems like yesterday when Dylan Gilmer (“Young Dylan”) appeared on “Ellen” to showcase his skills as a personable, pint-sized child rapper with big dreams. The now 16-year-old rapper and actor who hails from Annapolis, Maryland recently completed tenth grade. He has maintained a standard of excellence and growth while adding to his resume of achieving various noteworthy accomplishments.
To date, Young Dylan has appeared on Tyler Perry’s “Young Dylan” (Nickelodeon), The Kids Tonight Show (Peacock), and “NLF Slimetime” (Nickelodeon). Despite the great acting strides he has already made, the native Annapolitan continues to soar to new, higher heights on the music and entertainment scene.
“I am in the Disney Pixar movie ‘Elio’ and I am also filming a movie at the end of June. I am currently working on music. I just released a single called ‘Mass Appeal,’ and I also have another single called ‘It’s On Me’ dropping on June 20,” Young Dylan said.
A fully animated film, “Elio” marked the first time Young Dylan had been a part of a Disney project, according to the actor. His voice was used to help a character come alive on the big screen.
Photos: Da’Mon Gilmer
“My character’s name is Bryce,” Young Dylan said. “The movie ‘Elio’ is about a kid who is a space fanatic and doesn’t fit in. He gets abducted by aliens who mistake him for Earth’s ambassador. Later on in the movie, he finds out who he truly is.”
“Elio” premieres June 20, 2025 in theaters everywhere. The premiere was held on June 10, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. Young Dylan reflected on his opinion of the animated film’s significance.
“I feel like the message the movie wants to represent is staying true to yourself, and learning how to adapt in new environments,” Young Dylan explained.
The performer commented about Elio’s potential appeal to diverse audiences.
“I can very confidently say ages from kids to adults would enjoy this movie,” Young Dylan noted. “I would say this is a feel-good movie because it’s a family movie, and you will not only enjoy the movie, but learn a message.”
Young Dylan provided a glimpse into what he experienced during the casting process. He stated that voiceover work is not easy. Young Dylan succeeded after enduring a highly competitive process.
“Over 400 people auditioned. I was picked, then I read for the writers of the movie. After that I was chosen for my role of ‘Bryce,’” said Young Dylan.
Hard work paid off for Young Dylan. The talented and driven teenager rose to the top. “Elio” was filmed in New York from August to January 2024.
“It’s truly a blessing being a part of a film like this,” Young Dylan affirmed.
Da’Mon Gilmer, Young Dylan’s father, remarked that the opportunities that his son has experienced make him recognize how blessed he is in life.
Young Dylan continues to work hard, have fun building his career, and polish his talents to enable himself to achieve more. Despite his mass appeal, he remains connected to the small town where his journey began. Da’Mon shared a message about how Young Dylan’s hometown and home state can support the performer.
“I would like everyone to support and show up at theatres because being from Annapolis and seeing someone on a big screen who looks like you, and who is from the same town as you is inspiring and motivational,” said Da’Mon.
Young Dylan has balanced school with workdays on sets with admirable grace and maturity. Da’Mon wants others to know and remember that achieving anything is possible. Young Dylan’s inclusion in “Elio” deserves celebratory recognition.
“We will be having a watch party in my hometown movie theatre, AMC Annapolis 11. This will be a chance for my close loved ones, family and friends to come together, celebrate and watch ‘Emilio’ for the first time together! We will also be putting together a watch party for fans,” Da’Mon stated.
“As a father, I always wanted my son to be successful, and at only 16, he has surpassed my highest expectations. Now, the sky is the limit for him,” he proudly added.