He's endured so much since his High School Musical days — but Zac Efron is "happier than ever," he told Us Weekly Wednesday, Jan. 22 at the NYC premiere of That Awkward Moment.
"I feel better than ever," said the 26-year-old star, who secretly completed a stint in rehab in spring 2013. "I'm happier than ever," added Efron, who was photographed last month with a blue AA chip around his neck, signifying six months of sobriety. An eyewitness at Wednesday's premiere says the Awkward Moment costars Michael B. Jordan and Miles Teller were "messing around and joking" on the red carpet.
The former child star, also an executive producer for his latest film, told Us what's keeping him happy: "I think I'm just driven," he confessed. "I've learned a lot over the last couple of years and I don't know — it's been an interesting few years."
"The industry is kind of evolving and it's sort of been an interesting journey as we've watched the movie industry integrate with the Internet and social media," added the social-savvy star, who has over 7.5 million followers on Twitter. "I'm trying to be a part of it because I love my fans and it's proven to be difficult," he explained. "I'm best at meeting people face to face."
The hunk, who has much to appreciate in the new year, told Us Weekly he was thankful for "God" and his fans. "I'm so grateful for every single one of my fans," he shared.