Rock of Ages Star Jeremy Woodard Reflects on His ‘Awkward’ School Days in Air Jordans

As kids all over America head back to school, Broadway.com decided to ask our favorite Broadway stars to look back at their own years in the classroom—and share a school picture! Before Jeremy Woodard was making ladies swoon as ‘80s rock idol Stacee Jaxx in Rock of Ages, he played basketball with the Garner Optimist Club. When he wasn’t slam dunking, Woodard spent his school days crushing on “numerous girls,” hating algebra and avoiding detention.

Who was your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teacher was my choral teacher in high school, Mr. Gilliam. He changed my life completely by introducing me to music and theater. He is the main influence that guided me on the path to this career. I am where I am because of him.

What advice would you give to your school-age self?
Not to sound cliche, but “Don’t give up on your dreams and what you want to do.” And at the same time, “Don’t  be in such a hurry to grow up.” It goes by fast. Take your time and enjoy the ride.

In school you would have been named “most likely to…”
…get myself out of trouble. Haha.

What song sums up your school experience and why?
Well, you probably wouldn’t know this song, but it’s called “Up We Go” by a band named ABBY 6. They were an awesome band formed by some guys I went to school with, so that means something special in itself. I guess the song sums up my experience because it always reminds me of the awesome times I had with my friends during that phase of my life.

What’s your favorite back to school item?
My favorite was always getting new Air Jordans.

What class did you dread and why?
Algebra. I was terrible at it.

What is your most embarrassing school moment?
Hard to recall, but I’m sure it involved me falling in front of a large group of people somewhere. Or getting turned down by one of the numerous girls I liked.

In which extracurricular activities did you participate?
Chorus, drama, sports.

Describe your school-age self in three words.
Awkward, fun, determined.

Click here for more School Days memories from your favorite stars.