Here's why:
* Acting is a lifelong journey: There's no set timeline for mastering acting. Actors continually learn and refine their skills throughout their careers.
* Early start: Zac Efron started acting at a young age. He was on Broadway by the time he was 11, and his professional career started even earlier. It's likely that he's been developing his acting skills for most of his life.
* Natural talent vs. training: Some actors have natural talent and charisma that helps them excel, while others rely heavily on formal training and experience. It's difficult to know where Zac Efron falls on this spectrum.
* Defining "learn to act": What does it even mean to "learn to act"? Is it about achieving technical skills, understanding character development, or being able to convincingly portray emotions?
Instead of focusing on how long it took, it's more interesting to look at Zac Efron's career trajectory:
* Early work: He gained recognition for his roles in teen comedies like "High School Musical" and "17 Again". These roles were likely more focused on physicality and charisma than complex character portrayals.
* Later roles: Efron has taken on more serious and challenging roles in films like "The Greatest Showman", "Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile", and "The Greatest Beer Run Ever". These roles suggest a greater understanding of character development and emotional depth.
Overall, it's safe to say that Zac Efron has been consistently honing his acting skills for a long time, and his career demonstrates a growing maturity and range.