DWTS Contestant Efron Impresses Judge Burke with Intense Effort

Ahead of her upcoming guest judge appearance on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS), former pro Cheryl Burke has drawn comparisons between current contestant Zac Efron and past competitor Rob Kardashian. Burke, who was partnered with Kardashian during season 13 of DWTS in 2011, says Efron "reminds [her] of Rob Kardashian" in his dedication to the competition.

According to Burke, Efron, like Kardashian, is "really invested" and "putting everything into" the DWTS experience. While Kardashian was initially "nervous" and difficult to get into rehearsals, Burke notes that Efron has fully "surrendered to this experience" and is working tirelessly, likely "eating, sleeping [dance], and if he has a girlfriend, I feel sorry for her because, like, he's probably living dance right now."

Efron, 33, has confirmed that his participation in DWTS has been "so out of [his] comfort zone" and has put a strain on his relationship with longtime girlfriend Courtney King. "I would be lying if [I said] Dancing With The Stars wasn't tough, but I think it's tougher on Courtney than me," Efron admitted in a recent podcast appearance.

Despite the challenges, Efron remains committed to the competition, telling Us Weekly that he is "learning to dance" and "learning to perform" while putting in long hours to ensure his success. Burke, who will serve as a guest judge on an upcoming episode, is eager to see Efron's progress and is looking forward to evaluating the authenticity of his ballroom performances.