‘High School Musical 4’ Release Date, Cast, News & Update: ‘A Tiger’s Tail’ Star Merit Leighton Replacing Vanessa Hudgens? Original Cast To Reunite?

Several fans went berserk when Disney finally announced that "High School Musical 4" is happening. Now, new reports are claiming that, while Disney Channel is holding auditions for the third "High School Musical" sequel, Merit Leighton might be the one to replace the character of Vanessa Hudgens.

Merit Leighton to star in 'High School Musical 4' as replacement to Vannesa Hudgens

Rumor mills are spreading that "A Tiger's Tail" star Merit Leighton is starring in the upcoming "High School Musical 4" film as a replacement to Vannesa Hudgens. The 13-year-old actress is also the one who voiced Lucinda in the "Sophia the First" TV series.

While inclusion of Merit Leighton in the upcoming "High School Musical 4" movie is yet to be confirmed, Disney has revealed the name of the three main female characters: 1) Erin, who is a member of the school's soccer team; 2) Nathalie, who is the best friend of Erin and a bonafide member of the cheering squad; and 3) Tamara, who is rumored to be the antagonist of the film.

According to reports, Tamara is the Queen Bee that has fallen from grace. Additionally, it has been previously reported that the cousin of Ryan Evans and Sharpay Evans will be introduced in the forthcoming "High School Musical 4" movie.

Vannesa Hudgens not returning in 'High School Musical 4' with Merit Leighton's inclusion

With the rumored inclusion of Merit Leighton, a lot of fans have speculated that the possibility of Vannesa Hudgens not coming back in the upcoming "High School Musical 4" movie is high. However, with Zac Efron's recent split from girlfriend Sam Miro, it is highly possible for Vannesa Hudgens and the "Neighbors" star to have their reunion.

As a matter of fact, Disney director Kenny Ortega posted a throwback photo of the original cast of the first "High School Musical" installments thru Instagram. The post then sparked rumors that Zac Efron, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale, Lucas Grabeel, Corbin Bleu and Monique Coleman will come together again for a big reunion.

To recall, Zac Efron was not able to attend the 10^th year anniversary celebration of the "High School Musical" series since he was busy promoting his film. With the confirmation of "High School Musical 4," fans are expecting to see all the original cast together again.

"High School Musical 4" is slated for a 2018 release. Stay tuned for more updates!

Do you think Merit Leighton is a good fit to replace Vannesa Hudgens in the upcoming "High School Musical 4" movie? What are the things you expect to see in the film? Who do you think should be included in the "High School Musical 4"? Share to us your thoughts in the comment section below.