Pop icon Miley Cyrus had the best of both worlds on Sunday, August 11, as she was inducted as the youngest Disney Legend at the D23: Official Disney Fan Club.
In her speech, Miley reminisced about the days leading to her double life as Miley Stewart and Hannah Montana in the 2006 Disney Channel Series. She recalled 13-year-old Miley bravely sending out her audition tapes from her hometown, Nashville Tennessee, and how she was called back after a year to audition in person.
By then, Miley had already seen the life of a Disney popstar, even likening the process to being on RuPaul’s Drag Race Junior. After the initial filming concluded, she flew back home.
“A little bit of everything has changed since that day. But at the same time, nothing has changed at all. I stand here still proud to have been Hannah Montana because she made Miley in so many ways,” The beloved Disney star said.
From the young girl who wore the shirt that said, “I should have my own TV show” to performing for a crowd at the mall in a blonde wig, Miley has shown immense growth with her artistry and music. Earlier this year, she also won her first Grammy for Flowers. The song was recognized as 2023’s Record of the Year, topping the music charts for weeks.
“My other legends have said it best, it is all because of you. Everyone in this room; outside of this room, it's all about the fans,” she said.
According to Miley, fear is a normal part of life and legends get scared too. The only difference relies on whether someone chooses to try.
“This award is dedicated to Hannah and all of her amazing, loyal fans, and to everyone who has made my dream a reality. To quote the legend herself, “This is the Life”,” she ended.
Since her rise to stardom, Miley has performed in several stadiums both as Miley Cyrus and Hannah Montana. Some of her most popular songs on the show are “The Best of Both Worlds”, “This is the Life”, “The Climb”, and “Hoedown Throwdown”.
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event honored 14 new Disney Legends who have greatly contributed to the company’s historic success.
