**Matt Cornett Reflects on Post-High School Musical Life and New Role in ‘Every Year After’**
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Matt Cornett, known for his role as E.J. in the popular series *High School Musical: The Musical: The Series*, has opened up about his continuing relationships with former co-stars and how his life has evolved since the show wrapped up in 2023. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the premiere of his latest project, *Every Year After*, Cornett highlighted the strong bonds that formed during their four-season run, a sentiment shared by many cast members.
Despite nearly three years since the conclusion of the successful Disney+ series, Cornett revealed that he maintains regular contact with a significant number of his former co-stars. “I talk to a lot of them, actually,” the 27-year-old actor shared at the Tribeca Film Festival premiere held in New York City. “In fact, Frankie [A. Rodriguez] and Joe [Serafini] are going to be here tonight. I haven’t seen them yet, but they’re here.”
Also keen to stay connected with major figures from the series, Cornett mentioned, “I still talk to Joshua Bassett a lot. I was just texting Olivia Rodrigo the other day.” The complex relationships depicted in the show mirrored the friendships formed behind the scenes, and Cornett is proud of how they have all progressed since departing from their roles.
Cornett fondly recalls the show’s legacy and expressed pride in seeing all his former cast members thrive in their careers. “I still talk to almost everybody, so it’s great. I’m so proud of all of them,” he noted, reminiscing about the unique experience they shared as part of the *High School Musical* legacy.
Reflecting on his personal growth, Cornett remarked, “Life has changed in a lot of ways and somehow, no ways at all.” He cited his maturation over the past seven years since his casting, noting, “I sometimes think I know what I’m doing a little bit more.” Yet beneath the surface, his passion for acting remains unchanged. “I’m just so happy to still be doing what I love as a career,” he added.
In his new venture, *Every Year After*, which is set to premiere on June 10 on Prime Video, Cornett takes on a leading role. He portrays Sam, who shares a deep-rooted, decade-long romance with Percy, played by Sadie Soverall. The eight-episode series is based on Carley Fortune’s best-selling novel, following Percy as she returns to her nostalgic hometown of Barry’s Bay after ten years, confronting past relationships and unresolved emotions.
Cornett was particularly drawn to his character’s quirky and playful nature, stating, “What really intrigued me about Sam was his silliness and goofiness whenever he is comfortable with somebody.” He resonates with this personality trait, admitting, “When I’m comfortable with someone, I am a dork.” This authenticity is key to Sam’s character, who often struggles to fully express his feelings to Percy.
The rapport between Cornett and Soverall blossomed instantaneously, having met during a chemistry read via Zoom. “We had a really good, immediate connection,” Cornett recalled, with Soverall echoing his sentiments. “It actually felt quite instant. We got on really well,” she shared.
The mutual admiration between the two actors is palpable, with Cornett praising Soverall’s embodiment of Percy as “the absolute perfect” fit for the role. “She brings this joy and this fun to Percy,” he exclaimed, while Soverall commended Cornett for his depth in portraying Sam, stating, “He’s just so brilliant.” Their dynamic promises to add another layer of authenticity to the poignant storyline.
As *Every Year After* embarks on its journey to audiences, fans and new viewers alike can expect an engaging narrative woven with themes of love, nostalgia, and personal growth. The premiere on June 10 is highly anticipated, marking yet another milestone in Cornett’s burgeoning career in the entertainment industry.