Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus has added another milestone to her career by being named the youngest Disney Legend, a prestigious recognition awarded to those who have made significant contributions to Disney’s legacy. The 31-year-old, who rose to fame as the lead character in “Hannah Montana,” was honored at the D23 fan expo. She received a standing ovation from an audience of 12,000 as she accepted her award with visible emotion.
During her acceptance speech, Cyrus reflected on her journey that began with her “Hannah Montana” role in 2005. She shared that her early experiences on the show gave her a glimpse of the life she wanted to lead, stating, “I had gotten a taste of what my life could be, and from that moment on, I did not want anything else.” Her portrayal of Hannah Montana not only launched her into stardom but also made her a household name among fans of the show.
Cyrus expressed her pride in the role that defined her early career, saying, “I stand here still proud to have been Hannah Montana. This award is dedicated to Hannah and all the loyal fans who supported me, and to everyone who helped make my dream a reality. To quote Hannah herself, ‘This is the life.’” Her heartfelt words resonated with the crowd, many of whom had grown up watching her transformation from a Disney star to a successful musician.
The Disney Legends Award is the highest honor The Walt Disney Company gives, recognizing individuals who have made lasting contributions to its legacy. In addition to Miley Cyrus, 13 other influential figures were honored this year, including Angela Bassett, Jamie Lee Curtis, James Cameron, Harrison Ford, and legendary composer John Williams.
Disney CEO Bob Iger spoke about the award’s significance, emphasizing that it celebrates talent, achievement, and deep gratitude for the honorees’ contributions to Disney’s history. “The Disney Legends Award is the highest honor our company bestows,” Iger remarked. “It’s presented as a celebration of talent, a recognition of achievement, and, above all, a sincere expression of our deep gratitude.”
Harrison Ford, another award recipient, also expressed his appreciation on stage. Known for his iconic role as Indiana Jones, Ford shared his thoughts on the privilege of storytelling, remarking, “The stories we tell are for you, about you, about us, and our shared humanity. To be able to work in this space is truly a privilege.”
As the youngest ever to receive this honor, Miley Cyrus’s journey from her early days as Hannah Montana to her current status as a global superstar is inspiring and remarkable. Her tribute to her Disney roots reflects her gratitude for the role that launched her career and continues to inspire her fans. With this recognition, Cyrus has solidified her place in Disney’s history, leaving a lasting impact on fans and future artists alike.