Demonstrating his dramatic acting capabilities, Efron starred as serial killer Ted Bundy in the biographical crime thriller 'Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile'. His performance was praised for its depth and complexity.
Efron returned to his musical roots with the film 'The Greatest Showman', where he starred as Phillip Carlyle, a playwright who becomes P.T. Barnum's business partner. The movie was a box office success and had a popular soundtrack.
In the action comedy 'Baywatch', Zac Efron starred alongside Dwayne Johnson, playing the role of Matt Brody. This role further demonstrated his appeal in comedic performances.
Efron appeared in the film 'Neighbors', co-starring with Seth Rogen. The movie was a commercial success and showcased Efron's aptitude for comedy, expanding his acting range.
Efron starred in the romantic drama 'The Lucky One', based on Nicholas Sparks' novel of the same name. His performance contributed to establishing him as a versatile actor capable of taking on dramatic roles.
Efron took on his first leading role in a theatrical film playing the character Mike O'Donnell in the movie '17 Again'. This movie was significant in helping him transition from a teen idol to a mainstream Hollywood actor.
The third installment of the High School Musical franchise, titled 'High School Musical 3: Senior Year', was released in theaters. It was the first and only film of the series to be released theatrically and concluded the story of Troy Bolton.
Building on the success of the first film, Zac reprised his role as Troy Bolton in 'High School Musical 2'. The sequel broke records for the highest rated basic cable broadcast in the United States at the time.
Zac Efron gained widespread fame with the release of the Disney Channel original movie 'High School Musical', where he played the lead role of Troy Bolton. The film was a massive success and became a cultural phenomenon, creating new opportunities for him as an actor.
Zac Efron was born Zachary David Alexander Efron in San Luis Obispo, California, and later moved to Arroyo Grande, California. His father, David Efron, is an electrical engineer at a power station, and his mother, Starla Baskett, is a secretary who worked at the same power plant.