Zac Efron will be breaking free to the eye doctor, but first he has a task to complete.
On Today on December 20, he appeared alongside his Iron Claw co-stars Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson, and Stanley Simons, wearing black sunglasses. He swiftly clarified, however, that he was not wearing the shades inside the studio for the sake of fashion.
“It feels weird being in shades,” Zac observed. “I just have a minor eye infection.” But I was really hoping to be here.”
He went on to say, “It’s such a good movie, and I want to come see you guys and tell everyone about it.”
The biographical sports drama centers on the actor’s character, Kevin Von Erich, and the tragic narrative of his legendary Texas pro wrestling family. Kevin’s brothers are played by Jeremy, Harris, and Stanley.
The performers worked hard to become in shape in order to morph into ’80s wrestling stars.
“That physical preparation, it was intense,” he said, “but it really paid off.”
Meanwhile, Jeremy thanked the 17 Again actor for his behind-the-scenes assistance, referring to him as a “champion and cheerleader for everybody.”
Taking up a leadership position in the film was a no-brainer for Zac.
“It’s easy, man,” he said. “These young performers are really skilled. I imagine the hairs on the back of your neck stand up a little when you hear you’re portraying a professional wrestler. You’re a little exposed up there in the ring. The dedication of all these people was outstanding from the start.”
“I guess it felt kind of natural to just encourage them,” he added. “I remember how I felt when I got out there in my underwear for the first time in front of an audience.”
And it’s evident that the Iron Claw cast’s camaraderie goes beyond their on-screen fraternity. In fact, Jeremy and filmmaker Sean Durkin were among those who congratulated Zac on his plaque on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on December 11.