Zac Efron - Zac Efron Didn't 'Cash In' On Success

Zac Efron Didn't 'Cash In' On Success

Zac Efron feels ''very lucky'' not to have ''cashed in'' on his 'High School Musical' success.

The 24-year-old actor has turned down several roles after shooting to fame in the Disney franchise because he wants to have a long career, rather than make easy choices and keep his teenage fanbase.

He said: ''There were several avenues I could've gone down after 'High School Musical', but I looked at the long term.

''I want to be doing this for a long time, so I wanted to make this transition slowly. It wasn't so much about keeping the fans but about making sure I was able to focus on my craft and really take a step back, work hard, work with great directors and have a graceful transition.

''It was slow, but I look back at every director I worked with on these films and they are guys I've learnt so much from.

''I didn't cash in or take the easier route but really focused on learning as I grow. I'm still learning. I'm just very lucky.''

Zac can next be seen in 'The Lucky One' and was pleased to work with newcomer Taylor Schilling because he thinks she is destined for great things.

He added to HELLO! magazine: ''Taylor was unbelievable. I can't believe we found her in this film. I think she just shines.

''I'm happy I was in a film with her so early on because she's got such a huge career ahead of her. I'm just blown away. She reminds me of, like, Meryl Streep. I'm so lucky to work with her.''