Yahoo News High School Musical TV show finds its new heartthrob
The upcoming High School Musical TV show has cast its new heartthrob – enter 17-year-old Joshua Bassett.
Set to play the leading role of Ricky, Bassett's character has been described as a cynical but charming high school lad who launches a plan to win back his former squeeze Nini.
Interestingly, his approach is to audition for the school's production of High School Musical (via The Hollywood Reporter). Each episode will feature a new rendition of a song from the musical as well as an original.
Related: New High School Musical fan theory claims Sharpay was a victim not the villain
President and chief creative officer for Disney Channels Worldwide Gary Marsh shared his impression of the young actor and how he hopes Bassett can win the hearts of loyal fans.
"Joshua's interpretation of the Ricky character was brilliant - funny, winning and, at the same time, uniquely vulnerable," he said.
"The audience is going to love watching this charismatic young actor put his stamp on this next chapter of the High School Musical franchise."
Bassett, whose screen credits include the forthcoming anthology Dirty John alongside Eric Bana and Disney's Stuck in the Middle, also commented on his casting.
"As someone whose childhood was shaped by the cultural phenomenon that is High School Musical, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to continue to tell this story. Go Wildcats!"
With the 10-episode series slated to launch next year on Disney's streaming service, could the teenager become the next Zac Efron?
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