Disney's 'High School Musical' OG cast: Where are they now?
It has been ages since the charming basket team captain Troy Bolton and shy exchange student Gabriella Montez’s duet first entertained us, but we just couldn’t get enough of the teenage drama in 'High School Musical'! The romantic drama and enthralling music struck the right chord with tweens, although it received mixed reviews from the critics. Not only did it turn out to be Disney’s most commercially successful film upon its release in 2006, but it was also renewed for two more installments. Thanks to the actors whose effort in bringing the characters to life was phenomenal, thus playing a crucial role in the success of the 'High School Musical' trilogy.
While some of the actors from the Disney film are still making headlines in Hollywood, a few have stayed away from the limelight. Read further to know all about the 'High School' stars and what they are up to now!
Zac Efron
Zac Efron got his first break in the industry when he featured as Troy Bolton in the 'High School Musical' franchise. The role helped him earn the image of a heartthrob, which will be loved forever by Troy’s fans. After the musical trilogy concluded, he was seen in several films, such as 'Baywatch', 'Dirty Grandpa', and 'Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising' among the known ones. He was last seen in 'The Beach Bum', which released earlier this year. In an interview with Teen Vogue, Zac said he wouldn’t mind playing a cameo in the upcoming 'High School Musical' series, but he can’t make a commitment.
Vanessa Hudgens
Vanessa Hudgens played the female lead Gabriella Montez in the High School Musical franchise. Although she had already acted in 2003’s feature film 'Thirteen', the young actress rose to fame overnight by essaying Gabirella. The success of the film eventually landed her Hollywood records, with which she released two studio albums in 2006. Following 'High School Musical', Vanessa appeared in 'Bandslam', 'Beastly', 'Sucker Punch', 'Spring Breakers' and the most recent 'Second Act.' She has also played a role in Fox’s live musical productions 'Rent: Live' in 2019.
Ashley Tisdale
Even before 'High School Musical' happened, Ashley Tisdale was popular as Maddie in Disney Channel’s 'The Suite Life of Zack and Cody.' She was seen as Sharpay Evan in the 'High School Musical' franchise, the infamous antagonist and co-president of the East High drama department. She released a couple of studio albums, which failed to achieve success commercially. She later starred in High School Musical spin-off 'Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure' in 2011, which marked her final portrayal of the character. She returned to music in 2018 with her singles ‘Voices in My Head’ and ‘Love Me & Let Me Go.’
Corbin Bleu
Corbin Bleu featured as Chad Danforth in the 'High School Musical' trilogy. He gained more recognition as a singer than an actor in the film. He was also the runner up on season 17 of ABC’s 'Dancing With The Stars.' Bleu has been predominantly working in the music industry since the Disney franchise concluded. His latest films include ‘To Write Love on Her Arms’, ‘Megachurch Murder’ and ‘Walk. Ride. Rodeo.'
Lucas Grabeel
Lucas Grabeel as Ryan Evan was one of the most-loved characters of 'High School Musical.' He featured in the same role in the spin-off ‘Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventures’ as well. Grabeel has appeared in voice roles in numerous films and television shows. He’s currently working on ‘Pinky Malinky.'
Monique Coleman
Monique Coleman was also part of ‘The Suit Life of Zack & Cody’ alongside Ashley Tisdale before she was roped in for 'High School Musical.' In the musical drama, she essayed the role of Taylor McKessie, one of the fans’ beloved characters. She was a contestant on 'Dancing With The Stars' Season 3' and was last seen in the television series 'Guidance.'
Bart Johnson
How can we not mention Bart Johnson while talking about 'High School Musical?' He became popular for playing the Coach Jack Bolton. He was last seen in CBS’ 'NCIS.'