Zac Efron may not have been present in the audience during the Dancing With the Stars finale to support his sibling Dylan Efron on Dedication Night, but he received a heartfelt mention nevertheless.
In the episode aired on Tuesday, October 14, Dylan, aged 33, along with his dance partner, Daniella Karagach, showcased a contemporary performance to “Rewrite the Stars” from Zac’s film The Greatest Showman. Though Zac, now 37, did not appear on stage, Dylan danced alongside his 5-year-old sister, Olivia.
During rehearsal footage, Dylan shared, “This dance is dedicated to my little sister, Olivia. I didn’t anticipate being a big brother, but we formed an inseparable bond right from the start.”
As he reflected on the inspiring role Zac plays in his life, Dylan became emotional. “Dancing to ‘Rewrite the Stars’ is a tribute to my brother,” he said, with tears in his eyes. “Zac has always looked out for me, exhibiting such selflessness. I aspire to be that same kind of role model for Olivia.”
Dylan’s emotional tribute resonated throughout the evening, impressing the judges and earning him a score of 36 out of 40, all nines.
Dylan Efron with his sister Olivia during ‘Dancing With the Stars’ ABC
Though Zac has yet to make an appearance in the DWTS ballroom since the 34th season commenced in September, Dylan had hinted at a special tribute to family during Dedication Night.
Cohost Julianne Hough commented on the October 7 Disney Night episode, “Everyone expected you to perform a number from High School Musical tonight,” following Dylan and Daniella’s dance to “Life Is a Highway” from Cars.
To this, Dylan teased, “I have something meaningful planned for next week, if I’m still in the competition,” causing Daniella to openly show her surprise that he had leaked a spoiler for the audience.
It’s worth noting that Zac gained significant fame for his iconic role as Troy Bolton in the High School Musical series, which consisted of three films from 2006 to 2008.
Upon being announced as a contestant on Dancing With the Stars in September, Dylan revealed how family members reacted to his new venture. “My dad was super excited; he has little kids, aged 4 and 5 who couldn’t be happier. My mom was just shocked, asking where this came from. Zac has been very supportive,” he shared.
Dylan noted that Zac attended a Dancing With the Stars taping in the past, providing him insights into what to expect. “He said, ‘The best part is being part of those live shows,’” Dylan recounted.
When asked if Zac would eventually join the family in supporting Dylan live during the show, the younger Efron merely remarked, “We’ll see.”
Dylan also emphasized that he and Daniella aim to carve their own path rather than constantly referencing Zac’s illustrious career through their performances, stating, “We’re focused on doing our own thing.”
Having previously won season 3 of The Traitors alongside Gabby Windey, Dolores Catania, and Ivar Mountbatten, Dylan contrasted the different types of pressure that come with each reality show.
“This is much more intense because I’m not only at the table but also dancing,” he joked. “In the last game, I just had to raise my hand. This time, it’s about getting up and performing.”
With no prior performance experience before Dancing With the Stars, Dylan expressed enthusiasm for this new venture.
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“Initially, I thought, ‘No way am I going to do this.’ But those thoughts require reflection. I realized I was saying no out of fear, and fear is often tied to the potential of this being the best experience ever,” he explained. “Venturing beyond your comfort zone is ultimately the best choice you can make.”
Dancing With the Stars is broadcast on ABC and Disney+ on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET, with new episodes available for streaming the following day on Hulu.
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