Every two years, The Walt Disney Company honors a distinguished group as Disney Legends, recognizing their significant contributions and impact on the company. The 2024 class of Disney Legends brings surprises and remarkable figures, none more so than Miley Cyrus, the youngest recipient of this prestigious honor at just 31 years old.
Cyrus, often known for her chart-topping hits like “Wrecking Ball” and “Flowers,” has left an indelible mark on Disney history. Her journey with Disney began in 2006 when she took on the iconic role of Hannah Montana. The series, averaging 4.4 million viewers per episode, skyrocketed her to fame, with one 2007 episode attracting 10.7 million viewers, making it the highest-rated basic cable series telecast ever. The show, which concluded in 2011, became a cultural phenomenon, earning Disney significant revenue and a loyal fanbase that grew up alongside Cyrus.
Reflecting on her unique bond with her audience, Cyrus shared, “I think I’ve had, in a way, this amazing gift that my audience grew up with me. It’s very different than the relationship I have with the public or the media. But it’s really stayed grounded in the unique relationship I have with my fans because a lot of us were the same age.”
Her dual persona as both Miley Cyrus and Hannah Montana resonated deeply with fans and proved to be a brilliant marketing strategy for Disney. At the height of her Hannah Montana fame, Cyrus headlined the Best of Both Worlds Tour in 2007, generating $54 million in ticket sales. She also starred in “Hannah Montana: The Movie” (2009), which grossed $155.5 million. By 2010, “Business Insider” reported that Cyrus had helped Disney earn $1 billion since the show’s inception.
Miley’s honorary induction into the Disney Legends class of 2024, filled with notable names such as John Williams, Angela Bassett, and Joe Rohde, is a testament to her enduring impact on Disney. Bob Iger, Disney’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasized in his statement, “The fourteen individuals to be honored this year have each made extraordinary creative contributions across the worlds of Disney, and we look forward to celebrating them at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.”
Please share your thoughts in the comments below and engage with us by discussing this year’s Disney Legends and their contributions. Who’s your favorite Disney Legend, and why?
Source: Megan duBois
