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The 2025 Oscars after-party hosted by Vanity Fair became a nostalgic moment for fans as Filipina-Americans Olivia Rodrigo and Vanessa Hudgens, stars from different eras of the High School Musical franchise, reunited on the red carpet. Their meeting symbolized a bridge between generations of Disney enthusiasts and highlighted their shared Filipino-American heritage.
A Meeting of Two ‘Gabriellas’
Vanessa Hudgens, who portrayed Gabriella Montez in the original High School Musical trilogy (2006-2008), and Olivia Rodrigo, who played Nini Salazar-Roberts—a character auditioning for Gabriella’s role—in High School Musical: The Musical: The Series (2019-2023), posed together for the first time publicly. Their encounter delighted fans and sparked conversations about the franchise’s enduring legacy.
Stunning Red Carpet Appearances
Both actresses showcased their fashion prowess at the event:
Olivia Rodrigo:Â The 22-year-old singer-actress donned a sleek black leather gown by Roberto Cavalli, exuding modern elegance.
Vanessa Hudgens:Â At 36, Hudgens wore a feathery black Dolce & Gabbana dress with a thigh-high slit, marking her first red carpet appearance since welcoming her first child with husband Cole Tucker.
A Shared Heritage
Beyond their High School Musical connection, both actresses share Filipino-American roots, adding depth to their reunion. This shared heritage has been a point of pride for both, influencing their careers and public personas.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The unexpected reunion quickly became a trending topic on social media platforms:
Fans expressed excitement over the Gabriella x2 moment, reminiscing about the original films and the recent series.
Discussions about potential collaborations between the two stars emerged, with many hoping for joint projects in the future.
The Oscars after-party reunion of Filipina-Americans Olivia Rodrigo and Vanessa Hudgens served as a heartwarming reminder of the lasting impact of the High School Musical franchise. Their shared moment not only bridged generational gaps but also celebrated their cultural heritage, leaving fans eager for possible future collaborations.
