Miley Cyrus Honored as Youngest-Ever Disney Legend at D23: ‘It’s Legendary to Be Afraid and Do It Anyway’

As a longtime admirer of Miley Cyrus’s journey, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of awe and respect for this extraordinary woman. To witness her transformation from a tween star on the Disney Channel to a Grammy-winning artist, a Disney Legend, and now an inspiration to millions, is truly remarkable.


Miley Cyrus enjoys a unique advantage: this year, she won her initial Grammy award, and more recently, she was honored as a Disney Legend.

Lainey Wilson confidently stepped up to introduce Miley Cyrus, delivering a vibrant cover of the well-known “Hannah Montana” tune, “The Best of Both Worlds.” Following her performance, she expressed gratitude to Miley, saying, “Miley, I want to thank you for consistently pushing boundaries, remaining authentic, and above all, for always excelling.”

As a movie enthusiast, I’m about to share an insider secret from the Disney Legend world – a role that unveils hidden truths. Today, I’m confessing something that might surprise you: Legends, just like everyone else, experience fear. Yes, right now, I’m trembling with apprehension, but here’s the twist – we face our fears and keep moving forward.

Miley Cyrus wipes away tears during her Disney Legends acceptance speech at #D23.

— EbMaster (@EbMaster) August 12, 2024

In 2005, Disney aimed at revitalizing their company, and that’s why they brought on Bob Iger, as well as myself, as remembered by Cyrus with a chuckle during his recollection of being chosen for “Hannah Montana.”

“Cyrus expressed continued pride in having been ‘Hannah Montana.’ She dedicated this award to Hannah and her devoted fans, as well as everyone who helped make her dream a reality. In reference to the ‘Hannah Montana’ song, she said, ‘This is the life.'”

As a devoted admirer, I proudly declare that I continue to stand tall with my heart full, having once embodied Hannah Montana. This accolade is a testament to the spirit of Hannah and the unwavering loyalty of her extraordinary fans – a debt of gratitude I shall always carry close.

— EbMaster (@EbMaster) August 12, 2024

On Sunday evening at the D23 Expo in Anaheim, Cyrus was recognized alongside Colleen Atwood (costume designer), Angela Bassett, Martha Blanding (Disney Parks cast member), James L. Brooks, James Cameron, Jamie Lee Curtis, Steve Ditko (Marvel comic artist), Harrison Ford, Mark Henn (animator), Frank Oz, Kelly Ripa, Joe Rohde (imagineer), and John Williams in a glamorous event.

As a passionate cinephile, I can’t help but be in awe of Disney’s Legends awards program – a veritable Hall of Fame for those who have left an indelible mark on the magical world of Disney. Past recipients of this prestigious honor include none other than Christina Aguilera, Stan Lee, Betty White, and Oprah Winfrey. It’s truly inspiring to see such a diverse group of talented individuals recognized for their significant contributions to the Disney legacy.

Cyrus’ association with Disney commenced during her preteen years, where she played the lead role in the widely acclaimed Disney Channel sitcom “Hannah Montana.” Portraying an ordinary girl leading a double life as a pop star, this series led to a global tour, a concert movie, and a full-length film. As a result, Cyrus became a common name in households. The show attracted an average of 4.4 million viewers per episode and remains the highest-rated basic cable telecast ever, with a record-breaking 10.7 million viewers tuning in to a 2007 episode.

Lainey Wilson performs “The Best of Both Worlds” at #D23.

— EbMaster (@EbMaster) August 12, 2024

Later on, Cyrus lent her voice to Penny in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ movie “Bolt”, which also starred John Travolta. For her song from the project titled “I Thought I Lost You”, she received a nomination for a Golden Globe award.

Over the course of time, she transitioned away from her pure image by releasing mature songs such as “We Can’t Stop,” “Wrecking Ball,” and “Malibu.” However, last year, she went back to her origins with the Disney+ documentary concert special titled “Endless Summer Vacation (Backyard Sessions).”

At 31 years old, Cyrus is now the youngest person ever to be named a Disney Legend.

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2024-08-12 05:16