Dylan Efron Opens Up About His Deep Bond with Father David and Brother Zac's Influence

As a contestant on season 34 of Dancing With the Stars, Dylan Efron has opened up about the bond he shares with his father, David Efron.

“My father is undeniably loyal. I'm getting emotional, you're going to see me cry,” shared the 33-year-old Dylan during the inaugural episode of the “OFFICE OF” podcast, which aired on Wednesday, October 1. “While looking for childhood pictures for Dancing With the Stars, my dad sent me so many. Oh my goodness, I'm genuinely getting teary-eyed. In some of the images of my dad cradling me as a child, I recognize traits of myself in him. He has consistently been my protector.”

Dylan’s voice faltered with emotion as he enthusiastically described David — also the father of actor Zac Efron — as a person he could “unquestionably” turn to for any matter. (Following his divorce from Starla Baskett, David later remarried and had two additional children with his second wife, Jenny.)

“He was profoundly influential in my upbringing. Throughout my childhood, he attended all my athletic events. We share many resemblances. He has served as my unwavering support system throughout my entire life. I would regularly call him every day once my workday concluded,” Dylan disclosed, further stating that his father is “undoubtedly” filled with pride for him now.

A Look at Zac Efron’s Family: Introducing Brother Dylan, Sister Olivia, and Others

Another steadfast supporter in Dylan’s life is his brother, Zac, 37. With Dylan currently experiencing rising public recognition (due to his appearances on The Traitors and now Dancing With the Stars), he clarified that Zac has provided him guidance on managing a public profile.

“Two notable qualities about Zac are that when he’s working on a film, he dedicates himself entirely. It is his true calling, making his intense focus incredibly motivating to witness,” the reality television personality recounted to Yale Breslin on Wednesday. “During the filming of Baywatch, he would rise at 4 AM, endure an arduous training session, then spend the entire day shooting and committing his script to memory. While I claim to give my all, I’ve observed my brother exceed that, giving 120 percent. I deeply admire his dedication to work, and I believe that has influenced me significantly.”

He further elaborated, “And also, the motivations behind all his actions. His ambition was never to achieve celebrity status. He had a deep affection for acting and participating in films. I believe he has remained authentic to that principle. Notoriety wasn't his aspiration, but it became a consequence. This has brought both positive and negative experiences for him. Ultimately, Zac was fundamentally an actor. He has poured his enthusiasm and affection into it. It’s genuinely uplifting to witness.”

The Influence of Dylan Efron's Brother Zac on His Connection with Their Younger Siblings

Upon being questioned about lessons Zac imparted on maintaining a “calm demeanor,” Dylan clarified, “He has never been consumed by it all, if that explanation resonates.”

“He engages in shooting major films and attending prestigious events, yet he also joins me for fishing in the L.A. river,” Dylan mentioned. “Furthermore, he’s always the first to suggest, 'Dylan, we need a change of scenery, let's head to Montana.' He has consistently placed importance on family, genuine adventures, like traveling to Nepal. His consistent message is, 'Let's immerse ourselves in the authentic world and broaden our horizons.' Once a film concludes, his immediate thought is, 'Let’s escape this environment.' He doesn’t feel compelled to, 'I need to share this on social media.' He isn't overly engrossed in the digital sphere.”