Miley Cyrus was honored as a Disney Legend at the prestigious Disney Legends Ceremony on Sunday night, where she took the opportunity to reflect on her time as the iconic character, Hannah Montana. The event took place at Disney’s D23 fan event in Anaheim, where Cyrus was one of 14 honorees recognized for their significant impact on the company’s legacy.
The star, who led the hit Disney Channel series for four seasons between 2006 and 2011, was visibly emotional as she took the stage after Lainey Wilson’s performance of her breakout song, “The Best of Both Worlds.” Cyrus shared with the crowd that she had prepared two speeches for the occasion, one long and one short, depending on her emotional state.
During her acceptance speech, Cyrus humorously reminisced about the audition process for Hannah Montana and how she landed the role. She joked about being created in a lab by Disney, referencing the rumors that circulate about the origins of Disney stars. Despite the light-hearted banter, Cyrus expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to portray Hannah Montana and the impact it had on her career.
The singer also recounted her early experiences filming the show and performing as her pop star alter ego before the world knew who she was. She recalled a moment when she gave a free concert at the Glendale mall, opening with a song titled “This Is the Life,” despite the audience not recognizing the tune. In that moment, she felt the transformation into Hannah Montana and was proud of the character she portrayed.
As Cyrus reflected on her journey from Hannah Montana to Miley Cyrus, she acknowledged the significant role the character played in shaping her identity. She expressed her pride in having been part of such an influential show and credited Hannah Montana for the person she has become. The Disney Legend award was dedicated not only to Hannah Montana but also to her loyal fans and everyone who helped make her dream a reality.
The ceremony also honored other industry legends such as Colleen Atwood, Angela Bassett, Martha Blanding, James L. Brooks, James Cameron, Jamie Lee Curtis, Steve Ditko, Harrison Ford, Mark Henn, Frank Oz, Kelly Ripa, Joe Rohde, and John Williams for their contributions to the entertainment industry.
Overall, the Disney Legends Ceremony was a night filled with nostalgia, gratitude, and recognition of the individuals who have left an indelible mark on Disney’s legacy. Miley Cyrus’s heartfelt tribute to Hannah Montana served as a reminder of the impact that a beloved character can have on both the performer and the audience. As she continues to evolve as an artist, Cyrus remains proud of her roots and the journey that led her to where she is today.