Vanessa Anne Hudgens (born December 14, 1988) is an American actress and singer. She is best known for her role as Gabriella Montez in the High School Musical film series. She pursued a solo music career and released her debut album V on September 26, 2006. The album debuted at number twenty four in the U.S. and was later certified Gold. She reprised her role as Gabriella Montez in High School Musical 2 and High School Musical 3: Senior Year. Hudgens released her second album, Identified in July 1, 2008 in the U.S. She has three upcoming films: Bandslam, in theaters July 31, 2009, Beastly in 2010, and Sucker Punch! in 2011.