Now firmly established as a global pop phenomenon, Miley Cyrus has made a nostalgic return to the character that launched her career, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the beloved Disney Channel series "Hannah Montana." The star sported the iconic blonde mane and bangs of her alter ego during a special premiere event in Los Angeles, marking a full-circle moment for the artist who began the show as a teenager.
A New Perspective on a Cultural Phenomenon
Cyrus reunited with former cast members on Monday evening for the debut of the "Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special," which began streaming on Disney+ and Hulu on Tuesday. In an interview with The Associated Press, the 33-year-old singer expressed how the milestone has allowed her to view the series from a fresh vantage point. "Getting to be on the outside now, getting to be grown and be a part of it in a way that I couldn't when I was in the middle of it before, and all the chaos and the schedule and the performing of it all," Cyrus explained. "Now it just gets to be a celebration. So it is a new perspective. I love that."
From Tween Secret to Pop Stardom
Originally premiering two decades ago, "Hannah Montana" followed the dual life of Miley Stewart, a middle-schooler hiding her secret identity as a famous pop singer. Cyrus, who was just 13 when the show started, portrayed the character throughout its run, laying the foundation for her subsequent music career. The anniversary special, filmed before a live audience, features musical performances, archival footage, and an interview with Cyrus conducted by podcast host Alex Cooper, highlighting the enduring appeal of the series.
Addressing fans and colleagues at the premiere, Cyrus emphasized the ongoing relevance of the show. "Without you all, this show would have never been what it is, and I love saying what it is, not what it was," she declared. "Tonight isn't about looking back into the past, but it's about what it means to us still tonight."
Cast Reflections on Time and Impact
Jason Earles, who played Miley's brother Jackson, noted how watching the series today underscores the passage of time. "I think if you go back and you watch the episodes, there's enough dated references like old flip phones and stuff that you go, 'Oh no, no, this show was a little while ago,'" he told the AP.
Cody Linley, who portrayed Miley's on-and-off boyfriend Jake Ryan, reflected on the surreal experience of being a teen heartthrob. "It's hard to believe that there were girls that had pictures of me with my shirt off in their locker and they would have me sign it," Linley said. "And it's hard not to let it go to your head, because you have to remember that it's an image that they are seeing. It's not you."
Unexpected Connections and Career Beginnings
The premiere also featured country singer Lainey Wilson, who shared her unique connection to the series. Wilson recalled working as a "Hannah Montana" impersonator early in her career, detailing how she would open shows as herself before transforming into the character. "From 8th grade to 12th grade, five years of my life, I would open up the show as Lainey Wilson, I would run behind a tree and put on my 'Hannah Montana' get-up," she said. "I did birthday parties, fairs, festivals ... I was hitting the roads."
This anniversary celebration not only honors the legacy of "Hannah Montana" but also showcases how the show continues to influence and inspire, bridging generations of fans and artists alike. Cyrus's journey from a tween actress to a bona fide pop star underscores the lasting impact of the series, making this reunion a poignant tribute to two decades of entertainment history.
