Miley Cyrus, reminiscent of her iconic looks from the “Hannah Montana” era, marked the 20th anniversary of the show that kickstarted her rise to stardom. The singer joined her former castmates from the Disney Channel series in Los Angeles for the premiere of the “Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special.”
Reflecting on the milestone, Cyrus shared that revisiting the character and the show provided her with a fresh perspective. Having started on the show at the age of 13 as Miley Stewart, a young girl leading a double life as the famous pop sensation Hannah Montana, Cyrus expressed gratitude for being able to celebrate the series now as an adult.
The anniversary special, now available on Disney+ and Hulu, features a mix of archival footage and an interview with the now 33-year-old pop star led by podcast host Alex Cooper. The program includes musical performances, opening with the iconic “The Best of Both Worlds” anthem and closing with a new track dedicated to Cyrus’s younger self. The special also includes appearances by friends and family, such as her father Billy Ray Cyrus and Selena Gomez, who played a rival character on the show.
During the premiere, Cyrus acknowledged the significance of both the audience and her co-stars in shaping the show’s success, emphasizing that the impact of “Hannah Montana” continues to resonate today.
Other cast members, including Jason Earles and Cody Linley, reflected on their time on the show and how it serves as a nostalgic reminder of the past. Earles noted the dated references in the episodes, while Linley shared his experience as a teen heartthrob and the challenges of managing that image.
Lainey Wilson, a country singer, also attended the premiere and recalled her early career as a Hannah Montana impersonator, highlighting the show’s enduring influence on aspiring performers.
The reunion event was a moment of celebration and reflection, showcasing the lasting impact of “Hannah Montana” on both its cast members and fans.