Bart Johnson, best known for his role as Coach Jack Bolton in Disney’s ‘High School Musical,’ has revealed that the iconic film surprisingly derailed his acting career for nearly a decade. In an exclusive interview with TMZ published on January 21, 2026, Johnson stated that despite the movie’s massive success, he was ‘put out to pasture’ because casting directors typecast him as a dad figure, limiting his opportunities. This candid admission comes as the franchise celebrates its 20th anniversary, with Johnson reflecting on both the challenges and the enduring legacy of the production.
Johnson explained that following ‘High School Musical,’ he faced significant professional setbacks. He described how being associated with a Disney Channel movie made it difficult to land diverse roles, leading to what he called ‘actor jail’ for about ten years. During this period, he struggled to break free from the wholesome image of Coach Bolton, which hindered his career progression in Hollywood.
The actor also shared personal anecdotes about the film’s impact on his life. He mentioned that his children’s elementary school once barred him from dropping them off because his presence caused too much distraction among students and parents. This highlights the intense fame that came with the role, even though it didn’t translate into immediate career advancement.
Despite these early struggles, Johnson’s career has seen a resurgence in recent years. In 2024, he landed a role in Kevin Costner’s ‘Yellowstone’ and has a recurring part in Taylor Sheridan’s ‘Landman.’ He attributes this comeback to perseverance and a shift in the industry’s perception, allowing him to take on more mature and varied characters.
The timing of Johnson’s comments coincides with renewed interest in ‘High School Musical,’ as fans and media commemorate its two-decade milestone. In a separate interview with KSL News Radio, Johnson discussed the film’s lasting popularity and how it continues to attract visitors to East High School in Salt Lake City, where much of the movie was filmed. He expressed amazement that public interest has only grown over the years, with more people recognizing him now than at the peak of the film’s release.
Johnson praised the collaborative spirit on set, particularly crediting director Kenny Ortega for creating an environment that fostered creativity and camaraderie. He recalled how Ortega’s vision and the support of the Utah-based crew contributed to the film’s authentic feel, which resonated with audiences worldwide. This context underscores how ‘High School Musical’ was a cultural phenomenon that launched several stars, even if it posed unique challenges for Johnson.
Looking ahead, Johnson remains optimistic about his career and even teased the possibility of a fourth ‘High School Musical’ installment, though nothing has been confirmed. His story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of fame in the entertainment industry, where success can sometimes lead to unforeseen obstacles. Ultimately, Johnson views his experience with the film as a ‘blessing in disguise,’ as it taught him resilience and eventually paved the way for new opportunities.
