AN actress who starred in a huge teen movie in the noughties – has left behind the world of showbiz to become a figure skater.
High School Musical took the world of teen movies by storm, when it first hit the big screen in 2006.
The talented performer, who captured hearts with her portrayal of Taylor McKessie in the iconic movie, has traded in her acting career for a pair of ice skates.
The hit teen film, launched the careers of many of its cast members, propelling Hollywood actor Zac Efron and actress Vanessa Hudgens into stardom.
But it seems, Monique Coleman who played Gabriella's (Vanessa) best friend has embarked on a new chapter in her life – worlds away from the world of acting.
Monique has revealed she is now a figure skater.
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She started at the age of 42 and has been doing it for a year now.
The former Disney Channel star took to X/Twitter to celebrate her 43rd birthday recently, announcing that she spent it "skating at Bryant park".
Monique delighted her 412.1k followers by sharing a poignant clip of her gracefully twirling and gliding on the ice.
In the video the former actress showcased her newfound talent as a figure skater.
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She was dressed in a navy blue, figure skating dress covered in crystals and glitter.
Monique looked absolutely stunning as she applied a full-face of glamorous makeup.
Her eyes shimmered with metallic silver eyeshadow and long, fluttery false lashes.
Monique's lips were adorned with a glossy nude shade that added the perfect finishing touch.
Her caramel blonde braided hair was tied in a half-up, half-down style.
Fans couldn't quite believe that Coleman has now become a professional ice skater.
Taking to the comments, one wrote: "I’m so glad you didn’t Stick to the status quo."
A second added: "This is so beautiful congratulations on this awesome new character in your life."
A third penned: "Love this for you."
A fourth wrote: "I am tearing up, that is amazing!!"
A fifth added: "Huge congratulations to you Monique!"
Her unexpected career transition comes 14 years after the last High School Musical film.
She told fans on X/Twitter:"I am excited to take you guys on this journey with me."
Monique has dedicated countless hours to training, honing her skills on the ice and pushing herself to new limits.
After High School Musical ended, Monique went on to make guest appearances on shows including Gilmore Girls, Veronica Mars, and Malcolm in the Middle.
In 2006 she appeared in Dancing With The Stars and made it to the eighth week making her the longest-lasting female contestant in her series.
Outside of showbiz, Monique has been an active philanthropist and was even named a UN Youth Champion.
In her private life, Monique married Walter Jordan in February 2012 but the pair divorced in February 2022. Both parties have remained tight-lipped on the split.
Last year, Monique reunited with her High School Musical, cast mates, Corbin Bleu and Lucas Grabeel.
They shot scenes for Disney's High School Musical spin off TV show.
A string of key actors and actresses from the famous trilogy also reuniting to slip back into character for the special episode.
Variety reported at the time: “Original High School Musical franchise cast members … have joined season four of the Disney+ series High School Musical: The Musical: The Series.
"The new season will take a meta turn, with the Principal Gutierrez character announcing that Disney has decided to make the long-awaited High School Musical 4: The Reunion movie on location at their in-show high school."
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