Zac Efron Makes a Heartwarming ‘DWTS’ Debut as Brother Dylan Shines on Prince Night

In a rare family appearance, Zac Efron cheers on brother Dylan during the semifinals—bringing charm, confusion, and big-brother pride to the Dancing With the Stars ballroom.

For the first time ever, Zac Efron stepped into the glittering world of Dancing With the Stars, taking his place in the audience to cheer on his younger brother Dylan Efron during the show’s electrifying Prince Night. What followed was a wholesome, joy-filled moment that instantly became one of the episode’s highlights — proving that even Hollywood icons can be adorably confused by the DWTS scoring system.

The Nov. 18 semifinal episode brought the season’s remaining six couples to the ballroom for a thrilling two-performance challenge. Dylan, competing alongside pro partner Daniella Karagach, opened his night with a sharp, confident tango to Prince’s iconic 1984 hit “I Would Die 4 U.” As the crowd applauded, the cameras cut to the Efron family’s familiar skybox corner — but this time, big brother Zac was right there in the mix.

Seated with their parents, Starla Baskett and David Efron, Zac was spotted bouncing their youngest sibling, Olivia, on his lap while beaming with pride. Then came the moment that sent DWTS fans into a frenzy: as Dylan’s score of 27 was revealed, Zac leaned toward his mom with a puzzled look, seemingly asking whether the score was good. Baskett nodded and laughed, amused by her superstar son’s innocent confusion.

Online, viewers immediately turned the brief exchange into a viral moment, celebrating Zac as the relatable older brother who just wants to cheer — even if he’s not entirely sure how the judging works.

Dylan’s second performance, a smooth and charismatic cha-cha to Prince’s 1986 classic “Kiss,” earned him an even higher score. Zac’s reaction? Pure joy. Cameras caught him clapping enthusiastically, Olivia still happily perched on his lap, as Dylan solidified his place in the semifinals.

The emotional layer of support between the siblings has been present all season. During Tribute Night, Dylan dedicated his dance to their little sister Olivia, while also acknowledging Zac’s lifelong influence: “He’s always taken care of me… he did things that were so selfless.”

Though Dylan landed toward the lower end of the night’s first-round leaderboard alongside Elaine Hendrix and Jordan Chiles, his improved score and undeniable momentum fueled hopes heading into the finale.

As for Zac, fans are already hoping his wholesome ballroom debut won’t be his last.

Dancing With the Stars airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+, and streams the following day on Hulu.