Miley Cyrus has become the youngest-ever Disney Legend, an honor reflecting her iconic status.
She gained fame at 13. She starred as Hannah Montana. The Disney show aired in 2006. This role launched her career. Miley’s journey soared higher at D23. There, she delivered an emotional speech. She expressed deep pride in Hannah Montana. This character made her a star. It also left a mark on pop culture.
Miley Cyrus accepted the prestigious title. She also celebrated her musical successes. She earned her first Grammy for “Flowers.” The song topped UK charts for 10 weeks. Standing before 12,000 fans, she spoke at the Honda Centre. Miley reflected on changes since her breakout role. However, she emphasized her journey’s enduring essence. Her words deeply moved the audience. They gave her a standing ovation.
Miley’s arrival on stage was accompanied by country singer Lainey Wilson, who performed “The Best of Both Worlds,” a Hannah Montana anthem.
This moment prompted Miley to recall her first Hannah performance. She remembered tickets being handed out at a mall. There, a little girl in a blonde wig became a pop star. Her speech highlighted the award’s deep significance. She dedicated it to Hannah Montana, her loyal fans, and those who supported her dreams. Miley also joked about the Disney lab myth. She acknowledged her rebellious phase between 2013 and 2016.
That phase marked her departure from the Disney image, highlighted by the release of her fourth album, Bangerz, in 2013. The same year, she performed a controversial duet of “We Can’t Stop” with Robin Thicke at the MTV VMAs, which featured a provocative use of the foam finger, attracting widespread attention.
Miley wasn’t the only star honored at the D23 convention.
Hollywood icons Harrison Ford and Jamie Lee Curtis were also named Disney Legends.
Harrison, known for his roles in Star Wars and Indiana Jones, expressed his gratitude, while Jamie Lee Curtis, introduced by Lindsay Lohan, reflected on the nurturing and education that shape legends. Both stars, like Miley, brought emotion to the ceremony, with Jamie echoing the sentiment that legends are created through growth and learning.
The ceremony honored not just stars but also individuals who contributed to Disney’s legacy. Fourteen people, including composer John Williams, costume designer Colleen Atwood, and Disneyland’s first full-time black tour guide, Martha Blanding, were recognized as Disney Legends. Their contributions, like Miley’s, have left a lasting impact on Disney’s history and the broader entertainment industry.
In summary, Miley Cyrus’s recognition as the youngest-ever Disney Legend is a testament to her enduring influence.
Her emotional speech and reflection on her journey from a young star to a global icon highlighted her deep connection to her roots and the significant changes she has embraced. This moment, shared with other legendary figures, underscored the importance of growth, learning, and the impact of dreams realized.