Vanessa Hudgens recently discussed her past relationship with her High School Musical costar Zac Efron, as well as her new relationship with Austin Butler.

Vanessa Hudgens On Relationships

Hudgens and Efron began dating in 2007 after meeting on the set of the 2005 Disney Channel original movie. As the popularity of High School Musical and the subsequent movies grew, so did Efron’s status as a heartthrob for young girls – which proved difficult for Hudgens as his girlfriend.

“I went through a phase when I was really mean because I was so fed up,” Hudgens told The New York Times. “Girls were running after him, and I was giving them death stares. Then I realized that’s not what that’s about. ’Spread the love, be a good person, they support you, be nice.’”

Hudgens and Efron ultimately split for good in 2010. Five years later, Efron is in a serious relationship with sometime model Sami Miro, while Hudgens has longtime boyfriend Austin Butler. 

Since she started dating Butler in 2012, Hudgens says she’s actively returned to her Christian faith and attends services at mega church Hillsong. “It feels like Arcade Fire — it’s epic like that,” said Hudgens. “They really focus on you having your own personal relationship with Jesus, which is wonderful.”

Last year, to celebrate Butler’s 23rd birthday, Hudgens took to Instagram to share what an inspiration he has been to her in all aspects of life.

”Yesterday was the love of my life’s birthday. Happy birthday to the man with the kindest heart, beautiful soul, crazy talent and best looks I’ve ever seen,” Hudgens wrote. ”He never stops inspiring me in every aspect of life and always lifts those around him up higher. I thank god so greatly for blessing the world 23 years ago by creating Austin Butler.”