Sporting her signature blonde hair from her Hannah Montana days, Miley Cyrus revisited the beginnings of her career, commemorating two decades since the debut of the show that propelled her into stardom.
In a reunion with her fellow cast members from the Disney Channel series, Cyrus marked the occasion of the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special in Los Angeles on Monday evening. Reflecting on this milestone, Cyrus expressed how the passage of time has allowed her to view her character and the series with fresh eyes.
Having portrayed Miley Stewart, a teenager leading a double life as the famous pop sensation Hannah Montana since the age of 13, Cyrus described the experience as transformative. She emphasized the shift from the hectic schedule and demands of the past to a more relaxed and celebratory perspective in the present.
The anniversary special, now available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu, features a blend of archival footage and a captivating interview with Cyrus, now 33 years old and an established pop icon, conducted by podcast host Alex Cooper. The program includes musical performances, starting with the iconic series theme song The Best of Both Worlds and concluding with a new track dedicated to Cyrus’s younger self. Notable appearances include Cyrus’s father, Billy Ray Cyrus, as well as Selena Gomez and singer-songwriter Chappell Roan, who acknowledge Cyrus’s influence on their own careers.
During the premiere event, Cyrus expressed gratitude towards both her co-stars and fans, underscoring their essential role in the show’s success. She emphasized the significance of the present moment, stating that the evening was about cherishing the enduring impact of Hannah Montana.
Other cast members also shared their reflections on the show’s legacy. Jason Earles, known for his role as Miley’s brother Jackson, remarked on the nostalgic elements present in the episodes, such as outdated references to technology like flip phones. Cody Linley, who portrayed Miley’s love interest Jake Ryan, discussed the challenges of being perceived as a teen heartthrob and the importance of maintaining perspective amidst adulation.
The premiere event also featured country singer Lainey Wilson, who recalled her early career as a Hannah Montana impersonator, highlighting the show’s enduring influence on aspiring performers.
Overall, the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special serves as a poignant tribute to a cultural phenomenon that continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing the lasting impact of Miley Cyrus’s journey from a teenage star to a celebrated musician on the international stage.
