'High School Musical 4' cast news: Vanessa Hudgens excited; Will Zac Efron make an appearance?

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Disney's "High School Musical" was the biggest thing some eight years ago, and with the promise of a fourth installment on the horizon, fans—both young and old—are gearing up for the exciting new film. But it looks like one person isn't as excited about "High School Musical 4" as everyone else. It seems like Zac Efron, who played the leading man Troy Bolton in the first three films, won't be making a surprise cameo after all.

Efron has spoken time and again about his character in the popular Disney franchise, implying that he isn't too pleased that he's still viewed as the musical-loving high school basketball player that he once portrayed. "I wouldn't say I was a fan of my work, you know?" he jokingly told Elle.

The 28-year-old has since taken on roles that were very much the opposite of his character in the Disney franchise.

However, many fans are still hopeful for "High School Musical 4." One of these fans is Vanessa Hudgens herself, who played Gabriella Montez in the first three installments.

"I love musicals. Being able to do musicals is such a dream of mine and the fact that they're keeping it alive and bringing it to a new generation is really wonderful," she revealed to Entertainment Tonight. Hudgens also admitted to still singing the songs from the first three "High School Musical" films from time to time.

Another former "High School Musical" star seems excited about the fourth addition to the franchise. Corbin Bleu, who played Troy's best friend Chad, showed up at the auditions to offer a few words of encouragement to the thousands that wanted to try out. The auditions for the sequel were held at the Anaheim Convention Center.

It is undoubtedly heartwarming to know that some old cast members are still keeping the East High flame alive.

"High School Musical 4" was written by Dan Berendsen and Peter Barsocchini, who also wrote the scripts for the first three films.

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