HSM: The Series Cast - Where Are They Now?

Hey Wildcats fans! Remember the days of High School Musical: The Series? It feels like just yesterday we were all singing along to “Just for a Moment” and “The Rose Song,” but time flies! The show, which premiered on Disney+ in 2019, quickly captured our hearts with its fresh take on the beloved High School Musical franchise. It introduced us to a talented new cast, each bringing their unique charm and charisma to East High. But as the curtain closes on this chapter, many of us are wondering: Where are the cast members of High School Musical: The Series now? What are they up to, and what exciting projects do they have in store? Let’s dive in and catch up with our favorite Wildcats!

The Core Four: A Look at the Leads

Olivia Rodrigo (Nini Salazar-Roberts)

Olivia Rodrigo, who played the incredibly talented Nini Salazar-Roberts, has undoubtedly become a household name since the show's debut. From the very beginning, Olivia’s portrayal of Nini showcased her incredible vocal abilities and her knack for emotional storytelling. Nini’s journey, from a shy theater enthusiast to a confident performer finding her voice, resonated deeply with audiences, and Olivia brought authenticity and vulnerability to the role. But her success didn’t stop at East High; Olivia’s musical career skyrocketed after the release of her debut single, “drivers license,” in 2021. The song, a heart-wrenching ballad about heartbreak and teenage angst, broke streaming records and topped charts worldwide, instantly solidifying Olivia as a major force in the music industry.

Since then, Olivia has released her debut album, “SOUR,” which received critical acclaim and earned her numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards for Best New Artist, Best Pop Vocal Album, and Best Pop Solo Performance. Her songs, known for their raw emotion and relatable lyrics, have resonated with millions of fans around the globe. She’s not just a singer; she’s a storyteller, and her music has a way of capturing the complexities of young adulthood. Olivia’s success is a testament to her talent and hard work, and it’s clear that she has a long and bright future ahead of her. She's currently touring the world, captivating audiences with her powerful vocals and stage presence. But what's next for Olivia? While music remains her primary focus, many fans are eager to see if she'll return to acting someday. Whether she's on stage or on screen, Olivia Rodrigo is a force to be reckoned with, and we can't wait to see what she does next.

Joshua Bassett (Ricky Bowen)

Joshua Bassett, the charming Ricky Bowen in High School Musical: The Series, captured our hearts with his boyish good looks and genuine portrayal of a teenager navigating love, friendships, and self-discovery. Ricky’s character arc, from a skater boy trying to win back his girlfriend to a young man embracing his passion for theater, was one of the most compelling storylines of the show. Joshua brought a vulnerability and authenticity to the role, making Ricky relatable and endearing to viewers. Before landing the role of Ricky, Joshua had already built a solid foundation in the entertainment industry, appearing in various television shows and commercials. However, it was his role in High School Musical: The Series that truly catapulted him into the spotlight.

Beyond his acting skills, Joshua is also a talented musician. He’s released several original songs, showcasing his impressive songwriting abilities and vocal range. His music often reflects his personal experiences, and he has a knack for crafting catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Since the show, Joshua has continued to pursue both acting and music. He's released several EPs and singles, further solidifying his place in the music scene. He's also been open about his mental health journey, using his platform to advocate for mental health awareness and encourage others to seek help when they need it. This openness and vulnerability have made him even more relatable to his fans, who admire his honesty and courage. What’s next for Joshua? He's hinted at working on new music and exploring other acting opportunities. Whether he's on stage, on screen, or in the recording studio, Joshua Bassett is a multi-talented artist with a bright future ahead of him. We're excited to see what he does next and continue to support him on his journey.

Sofia Wylie (Gina Porter)

Sofia Wylie, who played the ambitious and incredibly talented Gina Porter, brought a spark of fierce determination and undeniable charisma to High School Musical: The Series. Gina’s journey, from the new girl in school to a confident performer and loyal friend, was one of the most compelling arcs of the show. Sofia’s portrayal of Gina was both powerful and nuanced, showcasing her incredible range as an actress. Before joining the High School Musical universe, Sofia had already made a name for herself in the dance world, appearing on So You Think You Can Dance and starring in the Disney Channel series Andi Mack. Her background in dance and acting made her the perfect fit for the role of Gina, a character who is both a talented performer and a complex individual.

Since her time at East High, Sofia has continued to shine in the entertainment industry. She’s starred in several films and television shows, showcasing her versatility as an actress. She’s also an advocate for body positivity and self-love, using her platform to encourage young people to embrace their individuality and celebrate their unique qualities. Sofia’s passion for acting and her commitment to using her voice for good have made her a role model for many. What’s next for Sofia? She has several exciting projects in the works, including upcoming film roles and television appearances. She’s also hinted at exploring other creative endeavors, such as writing and directing. Whether she's on screen or behind the camera, Sofia Wylie is a force to be reckoned with, and we can't wait to see what she accomplishes next. Her talent, dedication, and positive attitude make her an inspiration to her fans and peers alike.

Matt Cornett (E.J. Caswell)

Matt Cornett, who portrayed the charming and often conflicted E.J. Caswell, brought a unique blend of humor and heart to High School Musical: The Series. E.J.’s character arc, from the somewhat arrogant “theater kid” to a supportive friend and boyfriend, was a testament to Matt’s ability to portray complex emotions with authenticity. Matt’s comedic timing and his ability to convey E.J.’s vulnerability made him a fan favorite. Before joining the High School Musical family, Matt had appeared in several television shows and films, building a solid foundation in the entertainment industry. However, it was his role as E.J. that truly allowed him to shine and showcase his range as an actor.

Since the show, Matt has continued to pursue his acting career, appearing in various projects and exploring different genres. He’s also a talented musician and has shared glimpses of his musical abilities with his fans. Matt’s dedication to his craft and his genuine personality have made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. What’s next for Matt? He has several upcoming projects in the works, including film and television roles. He’s also expressed interest in exploring other creative avenues, such as writing and producing. Whether he's on screen or behind the scenes, Matt Cornett is a talented and versatile artist with a bright future ahead of him. His passion for storytelling and his commitment to his craft make him an exciting talent to watch. We’re eager to see what he does next and continue to support him on his journey.

Beyond the Stage: Catching Up with the Supporting Cast

While the core four grabbed much of the spotlight, the supporting cast of High School Musical: The Series also played a crucial role in making the show a hit. These talented actors brought depth, humor, and heart to their respective roles, enriching the stories and making East High feel like a vibrant and believable world. Let's take a look at what some of these beloved cast members have been up to since the show:

Sofia Carson (Special Guest Star)

Sofia Carson, already a Disney Channel star known for her role in the Descendants franchise, made a special guest appearance in High School Musical: The Series. Her presence added a touch of Disney magic to the show, and her scenes were a treat for fans. Since her appearance, Sofia has continued to thrive in the entertainment industry. She's starred in several films and television shows, showcasing her versatility as an actress. She's also a talented singer and has released several songs, further solidifying her place in the music scene. Sofia is also known for her philanthropic work, using her platform to support various causes and organizations. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to making a positive impact on the world make her an inspiring figure. What’s next for Sofia? She has several exciting projects in the works, including upcoming film and music releases. Whether she's on screen, on stage, or working to make a difference, Sofia Carson is a force to be reckoned with, and we can't wait to see what she accomplishes next.

Frankie Rodriguez (Carlos Rodriguez)

Frankie Rodriguez, who played the witty and lovable Carlos Rodriguez, brought a sense of humor and heart to High School Musical: The Series. Carlos’s character, a talented choreographer and loyal friend, was a fan favorite, and Frankie’s portrayal of him was both charming and relatable. Since the show, Frankie has continued to pursue his acting career, appearing in various projects and exploring different genres. He’s also a talented writer and has worked on several projects behind the scenes. Frankie’s passion for storytelling and his dedication to his craft make him an exciting talent to watch. What’s next for Frankie? He has several upcoming projects in the works, including film and television roles. He’s also expressed interest in exploring other creative avenues, such as directing and producing. Whether he's on screen or behind the scenes, Frankie Rodriguez is a versatile artist with a bright future ahead of him. His talent, work ethic, and positive attitude make him a valuable asset to the entertainment industry.

Julia Lester (Ashlyn Caswell)

Julia Lester, who portrayed the quirky and talented Ashlyn Caswell, brought a unique sense of humor and depth to High School Musical: The Series. Ashlyn’s character, a passionate theater enthusiast and aspiring songwriter, resonated with many viewers, and Julia’s portrayal of her was both endearing and authentic. Since the show, Julia has continued to shine in the entertainment industry. She’s appeared in several stage productions, showcasing her impressive vocal abilities and acting range. She’s also an advocate for body positivity and self-love, using her platform to encourage young people to embrace their individuality and celebrate their unique qualities. Julia’s talent, dedication, and positive message make her a role model for many. What’s next for Julia? She has several exciting projects in the works, including upcoming stage productions and television appearances. Whether she's on stage or on screen, Julia Lester is a force to be reckoned with, and we can't wait to see what she accomplishes next.

Dara Reneé (Kourtney Greene)

Dara Reneé, who played the fashion-forward and fiercely loyal Kourtney Greene, brought a sense of style and sass to High School Musical: The Series. Kourtney’s character, a talented singer and a supportive friend, was a fan favorite, and Dara’s portrayal of her was both confident and charismatic. Since the show, Dara has continued to thrive in the entertainment industry. She’s starred in several films and television shows, showcasing her versatility as an actress. She’s also a talented singer and has released original music, further solidifying her place in the music scene. Dara is also known for her advocacy work, using her platform to support various causes and organizations. Her talent, passion, and commitment to making a difference make her an inspiring figure. What’s next for Dara? She has several exciting projects in the works, including upcoming film and music releases. Whether she's on screen, on stage, or working to make a positive impact, Dara Reneé is a force to be reckoned with, and we can't wait to see what she accomplishes next.

The Future Looks Bright for the Wildcats

The cast of High School Musical: The Series has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on audiences around the world. Their talent, dedication, and genuine connection with their fans have made them beloved figures in the entertainment industry. As they embark on new adventures and explore different avenues in their careers, we can't wait to see what they accomplish next. From music to acting to advocacy, these young stars are poised to make a significant impact on the world. So, let's continue to support them on their journeys and celebrate their successes. The future looks bright for the Wildcats, and we're excited to be a part of their story.

So, there you have it, Wildcats fans! A glimpse into what the cast of High School Musical: The Series has been up to since their time at East High. It’s been incredible to watch them grow and evolve, both on and off screen. They’ve brought us so much joy, laughter, and unforgettable music, and we can’t wait to see what they do next. Keep your eyes peeled, because these talented individuals are just getting started! What are your favorite High School Musical: The Series memories? Which cast member are you most excited to see more from? Let us know in the comments below!