Miley Cyrus was honored as the youngest-ever Disney Legend at the D23 Expo in Anaheim, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career. The event, held on Sunday night, celebrated Cyrus alongside other luminaries such as Angela Bassett, Harrison Ford, and Jamie Lee Curtis.
Lainey Wilson kicked off the ceremony with an energetic performance of “The Best of Both Worlds” from “Hannah Montana,” a nod to Cyrus’s iconic role. Wilson then praised Cyrus for her fearless approach to breaking boundaries and staying true to herself.
In her emotional acceptance speech, Cyrus reflected on her journey with Disney, saying, “It’s legendary to be afraid and do it anyway.” She acknowledged the fear that accompanies greatness and urged her audience to embrace their fears as they pursue their dreams. With tears in her eyes, she expressed gratitude to her fans and the creators who supported her since her days as “Hannah Montana.”
Cyrus recalled her early days with Disney, humorously mentioning her and Bob Iger’s roles in helping to rebuild the company. She dedicated the award to her “Hannah Montana” character and its loyal followers, quoting the show’s theme song, “This is the life.”
The Disney Legends award recognizes individuals who have made a profound impact on the Disney legacy. Cyrus’s journey began as a tween on the Disney Channel series “Hannah Montana,” which became a cultural phenomenon. The show’s success led to a world tour, a concert film, and a feature film, making Cyrus a household name.
Beyond “Hannah Montana,” Cyrus voiced Penny in the Disney animated film “Bolt,” earning a Golden Globe nomination for the film’s song. Despite her evolution into a more mature artist with hits like “Wrecking Ball,” Cyrus returned to her Disney roots with the Disney+ special “Endless Summer Vacation (Backyard Sessions).”
At just 31, Cyrus’s accolade as a Disney Legend highlights her enduring influence and success within the Disney family.
