Reportedly having enough of musical movies and avoiding typecasting, 'High School Musical' heartthrob Zac Efron has exited the 'Footloose' remake project.
- Mar 24, 2009
AceShowbiz - Zac Efron may not be seen in a musical film anytime soon since words are flying around that the 21-year-old is no longer attached to "Footloose". Of the matter, The Wrap reported that the "High School Musical" hottie has pulled out from the Paramount Pictures' planned remake project in his effort to break away from typecasting.
According to a senior member of the production team, as noted by the publication, the Link Larkin of "Hairspray" told the studio last week that he did not want to do another musical at this point in his career. The source further claimed that Efron had script approval and used a loophole to get out of his contract, adding "People had been working on this project since last July - we were all shocked."
The Wrap, in addition, revealed that Paramount have insisted the project will move on without the actor. "Footloose is a project we've longed to see re-booted for a new generation. While Zac is no longer attached, we remain excited and committed to the collective brain trust of Kenny Ortega, Neil Meron and Craig Zaden, who will reinvigorate the franchise. Their fresh take on the film will undoubtedly be filled with the same kind of breakout performances that we've come to expect from them," so the statement read.
A remake to the 1984 Kevin Bacon-starring film, "Footloose" has been set to be directed by Kenny Ortega, the helmer of Disney's "High School Musical" series. It is expected to start its principal photography in Atlanta sometime this spring with a budget over $20 million. This musical remake is targeting on a 2010 release.
Zac Efron is known for his portrayal of Troy Bolton, a popular student and captain of East High basketball team in popular "High School Musical" series. After starring in "High School Musical 3: Senior Year", he will be seen next in "17 Again" and "Me and Orson Welles". Of his part in "Footloose", he earlier said, "I'll always be open to more musicals. I think they're fun and I think it's our responsibility as performers to try and keep them alive. I love Footloose - it's a great movie."
