Vanessa Anne Hudgens is an American actress and singer. She is best known for her role as Gabriella Montez in the High School Musical film series. Hudgens was born in Salinas, California, on December 14, 1988. Her mother, Gina Guangco, is of Filipino descent, and her father, Greg Hudgens, is of Irish and Native American descent. Hudgens began her acting career at a young age, appearing in local theater productions. In 2003, she made her television debut in an episode of the CBS sitcom Still Standing.
In 2006, Hudgens was cast as Gabriella Montez in the Disney Channel Original Movie High School Musical. The film was a huge success, and Hudgens became a household name. She reprised the role of Gabriella in the sequels High School Musical 2 (2007) and High School Musical 3: Senior Year (2008).
In addition to her work on the High School Musical films, Hudgens has also starred in a number of other films, including Bandslam (2009), Beastly (2011), Spring Breakers (2012), and Gimme Shelter (2013). She has also starred in a number of television shows, including The Suite Life of Zack & Cody (2006), Cougar Town (2009–2010), and Powerless (2017).
Hudgens is also a successful singer. She released her debut album, V, in 2006. The album reached number 24 on the Billboard 200 chart. Hudgens has also released two EPs, Identified (2008) and Remixed (2009).
Hudgens is a talented actress and singer who has starred in a wide range of films and television shows. She is a role model for many young people, and she is an inspiration to millions of people around the world.