This past weekend, Disney dazzled fans by honoring 14 new Disney Legends during an unforgettable extravaganza that closed out D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. Among the 2024 honorees were luminaries such as Colleen Atwood, Angela Bassett, Martha Blanding, James L. Brooks, James Cameron, Jamie Lee Curtis, Miley Cyrus, Steve Ditko, Harrison Ford, Mark Henn, Frank Oz, Kelly Ripa, Joe Rohde, and John Williams. Hosted by the ever-charismatic Ryan Seacrest, the night was not only the largest ceremony in the event’s 37-year history but also a beacon of glitz and glamour befitting Hollywood itself. For the first time, this magical evening was streamed exclusively on Disney+, allowing fans worldwide to join in the celebration.
Disney CEO Bob Iger set the tone for the night with a heartfelt speech, underscoring the profound significance of the Disney Legends Award. “The Disney Legends Award is the highest honor our company bestows,” Iger affirmed, highlighting the honorees’ immense contributions to the Disney legacy and their global impact on fans.
The ceremony brimmed with special video tributes and surprise guest appearances that paid homage to the new Legends. Harrison Ford’s accolade was presented by none other than Iger himself, supported by heartfelt words from Kathleen Kennedy, Steven Spielberg, and George Lucas. Jamie Lee Curtis received her honor from Jodie Foster and Lindsay Lohan, who both extolled her fearless versatility. Kelly Ripa’s close friend Ryan Seacrest presented her award amidst a tribute that included her current co-host, Mark Consuelos.
The event continued its high-energy parade with tributes to the animated genius James L. Brooks, celebrated by The Simpsons characters and Danny DeVito, and costume designer Colleen Atwood, praised by director Rob Marshall. Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios, honored posthumous recipient Steve Ditko. This unforgettable night continued with tributes to Miley Cyrus, Frank Oz, Mark Henn, Joe Rohde, James Cameron, and Angela Bassett — each presentation packed with treasured memories and influential moments in Disney’s extensive history.
Closing the night in grand form, John Williams was honored by Kathleen Kennedy and Harrison Ford, who was later serenaded by the Pacific Symphony Orchestra performing his iconic film scores —a perfect ending to a star-studded celebration.
The weekend’s festivities drew tens of thousands of fans for an immersive Disney experience filled with exclusive showcases, star appearances, thrilling performances, and the largest show floor in D23 history. The global Disney fandom mingled with their beloved stories and characters, reveling in an event only the magic of Disney could conjure.
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Source: The Walt Disney Company
