The Disney Channel Original Movie High School Musical premiered on Disney Channel in the USA on 20 January, 2006. The DCOM became an instant hit, is beloved by people all around the world and its cultural impact cannot be understated. An entire franchise was spawned from its success including two sequels, a spin-off movie and tv show, a multi-country concert tour, a tour film, a stage musical, a reality show, parades in the Disney Parks, toys, books, comics, video games, board games, and multiple international film adaptations. High School Musical changed the landscape of Disney Channel and shifted much of the network's programming to being musically driven content going forward, something that is still prevalent today. The trilogy's director and choreographer Kenny Ortega went on to direct 4 other hit Disney Channel Original Movies and became the first DCOM director to be awarded the title of Disney Legend in 2019. The main cast was shot into superstardom and remain household names to this day.
High School Musical has been such a big part of my life for so long. I was 8-years-old when the movie first came out and became instantly obsessed. It was probably the first thing I was ever truly a "fan" of. Who knows how many times I've watched it since then. It's my favourite DCOM (and I've seen all 100+). Troy Bolton is my favourite character of all time. These characters and songs and friendships and messages mean so much to me and I'm so grateful to have had them with me for the past 20 years. I've never stopped loving High School Musical and I never will.
