The cast of the OG High School Musical had a virtual reunion for The Disney Family Singalong.
Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale, Corbin Bleu, Monique Coleman, Lucas Grabeel and show creator Kenny Ortega reminisced about their time on set and the song, before kicking off the epic performance of “We’re All in This Together” – along with other Disney channel stars like KayCee Stroh, Raven-Symoné, Dove Cameron, Sofia Carson, Booboo Stewart, Sarah Jeffrey, Meg Donnelly, Milo Manheim, Joshua Bassett, Olivia Rodrigo and many more.
Although Zac Efron was noticeably absent from the group’s conversation and performance, he did have a special role prior to kick things off – introducing the performers.
“Hi, everyone. I hope that you’re safe and that you’re healthy and that you’re doing as well as possible during these unprecedented times,” Zac began. “It’s my greatest pleasure to introduce a musical performance by some of my oldest friends and some new ones. I hope that you enjoy, and remember, we are all in this together.”
But fans have been wondering why wasn’t he busting out the moves and those pipes along with the rest of the performers.
Earlier this week, Kenny Ortega already explained the reason why Zac wouldn’t be joining in the musical performance.
“We couldn’t reach Zac until late but when we did, he immediately jumped in, of course,” Kenny told Deadline. “Everyone we reached out to was quick—and you’ll see it in their spirit and the way they come together from their homes. They recognize this is an opportunity to strengthen spirits for those joining us for the broadcast.”
When the High School Musical cast reunited for their 10th anniversary special, Zac also wasn’t there. At the time, a Disney spokeswoman told Billboard that the taping sched conflicted with the on-going promotions for Zac’s movie Dirty Grandpa.
Several celebrities and their families took part in the one-hour special, performing their fave Disney tunes from their homes, including Demi Lovato and Michael Bublé, Ariana Grande, Josh Gad and more. Even Beyonce joined in on the fun with a surprise appearance!
Queen Bey, who voiced Nala in the live-action remake of The Lion King, performed a beautiful rendition of “When You Wish Upon A Star” from Pinocchio. She also shared some words of encouragement prior to her performance.
“Hello to all of the families across the world. I’m very proud and honored to be a part of the Disney family and to help present The Disney Songbook Singalong, in partnership with Feeding America,” she began. “I’d like to dedicate this song to all of the healthcare workers who’ve been working tirelessly to keep us healthy and safe. We greatly appreciate you.”
She ended her segment telling fans not to lose hope.
“Please hold on to your families tight. Please be safe. Don’t give up hope. We’re gonna get through this. I promise. God bless you,” she concluded.
Looks like her performance gave fans all the feels. Kim Kardashian couldn’t help gushing about it.
“Beyoncé sounds so beautiful,” Kim tweeted.
