Sporting her signature blonde hair reminiscent of her “Hannah Montana” days, Miley Cyrus revisited the origins of her career, marking two decades since the debut of the iconic TV show. Gathered with former castmates from the Disney Channel series in Los Angeles, Cyrus commemorated the occasion at the premiere of the “Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special.”
Reflecting on her journey, Cyrus shared with The Associated Press how the milestone allowed her to view the character and show from a fresh perspective. Having portrayed Miley Stewart, a teenager leading a double life as the famous pop sensation Hannah Montana since the age of 13, Cyrus expressed gratitude for now being able to celebrate the show’s legacy without the pressures and demands she faced during its production.
The anniversary special, available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu, showcases a mix of archived footage and an in-depth interview conducted by podcast host Alex Cooper with the now 33-year-old pop star. Musical performances are a highlight, featuring iconic hits like “The Best of Both Worlds” and a new song dedicated to Cyrus’s younger self. The event also includes appearances by family members, such as her father Billy Ray Cyrus, and friends like Selena Gomez and singer-songwriter Chappell Roan, who credit Cyrus for influencing their careers.
During the premiere, Cyrus took the opportunity to express gratitude to her fellow cast members and fans, emphasizing the enduring impact of the show on its audience. She remarked that the celebration was not about dwelling on the past but rather acknowledging the show’s continued significance in the present.
Other cast members also shared their reflections on the show’s legacy. Jason Earles, known for his role as Miley’s brother Jackson, noted how revisiting the series highlighted the passage of time, with dated references serving as nostalgic reminders of the show’s era. Cody Linley, who portrayed Miley’s on-and-off boyfriend Jake Ryan, recounted the surreal experience of being idolized as a teen heartthrob and the importance of maintaining a grounded perspective amidst fan adoration.
Country singer Lainey Wilson, who attended the premiere, reminisced about her early career as a Hannah Montana impersonator, highlighting the impact the show had on her formative years as a performer.
The star-studded event at the El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles brought together the cast and fans to celebrate the enduring legacy of “Hannah Montana” and its lasting impact on popular culture.