Miley Cyrus, sporting her iconic blonde hair and bangs from the “Hannah Montana” era, revisited her roots by commemorating the 20th anniversary of the TV series that jumpstarted her journey to becoming a real-life pop sensation. The celebrated singer joined her former co-stars from the Disney Channel sitcom at the premiere of the “Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special” in Los Angeles.
Reflecting on the milestone, Cyrus shared with The Associated Press that she now views the character and show in a fresh light. Having portrayed Miley Stewart, a teenage girl leading a double life as the famous pop star Hannah Montana since the age of 13, Cyrus expressed gratitude for being able to appreciate the series from a new perspective as an adult.
The special, available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu, marks two decades since the show first aired. Featuring a live audience, the program includes nostalgic footage and revolves around an interview with Cyrus, now 33 and an established pop icon, conducted by podcast host Alex Cooper. Musical performances, starting with the show’s theme song “The Best of Both Worlds” and concluding with a new track dedicated to her younger self, are included.
During the premiere, Cyrus honored her co-stars and fans, emphasizing the enduring impact of the show. She underscored that the event was not about dwelling on the past but about acknowledging the continued significance of “Hannah Montana.”
Other cast members also shared their reflections. Jason Earles, who portrayed Miley’s brother Jackson, remarked that rewatching the series highlighted the passage of time, noting dated references like old flip phones. Cody Linley, known for his role as Miley’s love interest Jake Ryan, discussed the challenge of being seen as a teen heartthrob and the importance of maintaining perspective.
The premiere also saw the attendance of country singer Lainey Wilson, who reminisced about her early career as a Hannah Montana impersonator, showcasing the enduring influence of the beloved show on a new generation of artists.