Why Olivia Rodrigo's Involvement in Season 4 of 'HSMTMTS' Was Kept Under Wraps

Olivia Rodrigo in ‘High School Musical: The Musical’ Disney/Anne Marie Fox

Olivia Rodrigo has officially left her role as Nini on High School Musical: The Musical: The Series during season 3, with no intentions of bringing her character back for the final episodes. Creator Tim Federle shared that he was satisfied with the ending and Olivia's focus on her songwriting career made it difficult to include her in the storyline. The show is also introducing new characters and bringing back other significant ones.

Federle, who is 43 years old, indicated that there are no plans to continue Nini's story beyond what was covered in season 3. He expressed his concern that with only eight episodes, Nini's presence would be reduced to mere cameos instead of substantial storylines. Although the offer was extended to her, it was never seriously discussed due to the need to focus on developing new relationships.

Rodrigo, who is 20 years old, brought Nini's character to life when the series premiered on Disney+ in 2019. Following the release of the first season, Rodrigo experienced a significant rise in popularity when her single "Driver's License" went viral in January 2021. Just four months later, her debut album, Sour, received widespread acclaim.

Speculation arose that Rodrigo's music was influenced by a rumored romance with fellow HSMTMTS cast member, Joshua Bassett. As a result, Rodrigo went from being a regular on the show to appearing on a recurring basis in season 3. On screen, the characters Ricky (played by Bassett) and Nini's romance came to a close, leading Nini to make the decision to relocate to Los Angeles in pursuit of a music career. The season 3 finale, broadcasted in 2022, depicted Nini bidding farewell to her classmates before embarking on her new life.

In the fourth and final season, which premiered on Wednesday, Ricky made mention of Nini while distributing cards to everyone on the opening night of their production of High School Musical 3. Season 4 then focused on Ricky's developing relationship with his long-time crush turned girlfriend, Gina (Sofia Wylie), following his previous breakup with Nini.

Federle previously opened up about his plan for Ricky to find his happily ever after with Gina.

Disney/Fred Hayes

Often, in one's first experience of love, there is a belief that it sets the standard and should endure forever. However, I believe Ricky and Gina are experiencing their first real love together because they have both been shaped by their individual experiences in the world," he exclusively revealed to We. "They have faced hardships and obstacles. So much has happened, and it is truly wonderful to be able to portray this relationship without any restrictions."

Federle elaborated: "I remember that in the writers' room, we always pondered over the question, 'But why Ricky for Gina?' Because E.J. is an incredible person - someone whom the audience will see is finding happiness and contentment in his own life. And what we concluded was, 'Ricky always brings laughter to Gina's life.' He may have a competitive and confident demeanor, while she tends to be self-critical and eager to please others. However, Ricky has a way of cutting through all of that and making Gina laugh. I believe this is one aspect of their relationship that she has not experienced with any other man."

The fourth and final season of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series is streaming on Disney+.