Ashley Tisdale has been captivating audiences since her early childhood, showcasing her talent across various platforms as a singer, dancer, and actress. Her journey began in commercials and print advertisements, eventually leading her into both theater and film. Although she has had minor roles in iconic films such as Donnie Darko, her most notable works are those that resonate with mainstream audiences.
Tisdale has demonstrated remarkable versatility in her performances, particularly evident in her strong presence in musical productions, which feature prominently in her career. As a child, she participated in the touring casts of notable musicals like Les Misérables and Annie, paving the way for her breakout roles on the Disney Channel.
10 Sons of Anarchy (2012)
Ashley Tisdale As Emma Jean
In 2012, Tisdale made a significant transition into more mature roles. Leaving behind her Disney Channel roots, she joined the cast of Sons of Anarchy, a show that dives deep into the lives of a motorcycle club and their complex relationships. While Tisdale’s character Emma Jean—a high-priced call girl—only appears in a few episodes, her inclusion marked a pivotal point in her career.
Interestingly, Tisdale didn’t audition for the part; her father had a casual conversation with showrunner Kurt Sutter, who recognized Tisdale’s enthusiasm for the series. She eagerly accepted the role, understanding it would stretch her acting abilities and present her to audiences in a dramatically different light. Tisdale reflected on this experience, stating:
I’m doing a lot of stuff that’s completely out of my comfort zone. I think that’s the key. I used to want to make sure that every step was thought out. With every project I did, I had to make sure I was comfortable. But, when you’re growing, even as a person, you have to just get out there. The only way to grow is to challenge yourself.
9 Raising Hope (2012)
Ashley Tisdale As Mary Louise
Raising Hope presents a unique and darkly comedic premise, following a young man named Jimmy (Lucas Neff) who unexpectedly gains custody of his daughter, Hope, the result of a brief encounter with a convicted felon. Tisdale graces the show in a single, unforgettable episode as Mary Louise, an improv actress enlisted to help Jimmy impress his dream girl.
Her performance is both comedic and heartfelt, showcasing her comedic timing and emotional range, prompting some viewers to wish for more romantic comedies featuring Tisdale.
8 Hellcats (2010-2011)
Ashley Tisdale As Savannah Monroe
Transitioning from her Disney Channel roots, Tisdale’s role in Hellcats marked a significant step in her career. The series, centered around a collegiate cheerleading team, featured Tisdale alongside fellow Disney alum Aly Michalka. Tisdale portrays Savannah Monroe, a cheerleading captain from a conservative background, navigating new challenges as she adjusts to life at a secular university.
Despite its early cancellation, the series showcased the dynamic chemistry between Tisdale and Michalka, along with Tisdale’s strong choreography skills, ultimately serving as a bridge to her more adult roles.
7 High School Musical 3 (2008)
Ashley Tisdale As Sharpay Evans
The third installment of the High School Musical franchise made a splash in theaters, transitioning from its Disney Channel beginnings. Although the film explored themes of growing up, Tisdale’s character, Sharpay Evans, faced new adversities, particularly with the introduction of the character Tiara Gold, threatening her status as the drama queen.
While Tisdale delivered a stellar performance as Sharpay, the portrayal felt somewhat regressive for her character. Yet, her musical talent remained a highlight in a film that ultimately lacked satisfactory character progression.
6 The Suite Life Of Zack And Cody (2005-2008)
Ashley Tisdale As Maddie Fitzpatrick
In The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, Tisdale plays Maddie Fitzpatrick, a student who balanced her studies with a job at the Tipton Hotel. Serving as a contrast to the show’s comedic chaos initiated by the titular twins, Maddie’s character provided a grounded perspective, highlighting Tisdale’s range as an actress.
This role laid the foundation for her subsequent successes within the Disney franchise, paving the way for her participation in High School Musical and beyond.
5 Young And Hungry (2014-2016)
Ashley Tisdale As Logan Rawlings
In Young And Hungry, Tisdale stepped into a guest role as Logan Rawlings, introducing a fresh challenge by portraying a media mogul enamored with a young chef. Although limited to three episodes, her character mirrored Tisdale’s own evolution, bridging her experiences from comedic roles to more complex emotional portrayals.
Beyond acting, Tisdale served as an executive producer for the series, demonstrating her commitment to crafting engaging stories and narratives in the television landscape.
4 High School Musical 2 (2007)
Ashley Tisdale As Sharpay Evans
Unlike its predecessors, High School Musical 2 takes place during summer, showcasing the characters in a new light as they navigate summer jobs at a country club. Tisdale’s portrayal of Sharpay shines as she attempts to maintain her upper hand, while introducing comedic elements that challenge her character’s typical persona.
This film capitalizes on Tisdale’s comedic capabilities, delivering campy and entertaining moments, solidifying her status as a standout performer in the franchise.
3 Phineas And Ferb (2007-2015, 2025-)
Ashley Tisdale As Candace Flynn
Phineas and Ferb became a cultural phenomenon during its run on Disney Channel, featuring Tisdale as the voice of Candace Flynn, the brothers’ determined sister. Her character navigates adolescent woes while humorously attempting to thwart her brothers’ outrageous summer plans, showcasing Tisdale’s ability to bring comedic nuance to her role.
Candace’s struggles and her dynamic, though often comedic, form a significant part of the show’s charm.
2 Phineas And Ferb: Candace Against The Universe (2020)
Ashley Tisdale As Candace Flynn
Tisdale reprised her role in Phineas And Ferb: Candace Against The Universe, which has been lauded as one of her best projects, reflecting her abilities as a voice actor. In this movie, Candace becomes the central character, embarking on an interstellar adventure where her feelings of exclusion become a focal point of the narrative.
This exploration allowed Tisdale to delve deeper into Candace’s emotional journey, providing a nuanced display of her talent beyond comedic yell and frustration.
1 High School Musical (2006)
Ashley Tisdale As Sharpay Evans
In the original High School Musical, Tisdale’s depiction of the character Sharpay Evans captivated audiences and set the stage for her iconic status in the Disney franchise. As the formidable nemesis to Troy and Gabriella, her role is characterized by ambition and determination, making her one of the film’s most memorable characters.
Tisdale’s performance not only solidified her place in pop culture but also established a foundation for her future projects, showcasing her ability to blend singing and acting into a unique and unforgettable character portrayal.