Cyrus humorously calls out her neighbor and superfan during the special event celebrating the show's legacy
Category: Arts & Culture
Hollywood's elite gathered on March 23, 2026, at the El Capitan Theatre for the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special, a nostalgic celebration of the beloved Disney Channel series. The event, hosted by podcast sensation Alex Cooper, is set to premiere on Disney+ on March 24, and it featured a mix of original cast members, family, and fans celebrating the show's lasting impact.
Miley Cyrus, who famously portrayed the titular character from 2006 to 2011, took the stage and humorously called out Cooper, saying, "Alex being a superfan, kinda creepy. She’s also my neighbor, which is also creepy. She got money and then she moved next door to me, so there was no other host—yeah, it was weird." This playful jab set a light-hearted tone for the evening, highlighting the unique relationship between the two.
Cooper, 31, known for her podcast Call Her Daddy, expressed her enthusiasm for hosting the event, which included an exclusive interview with Cyrus and behind-the-scenes footage from the show. "Hannah Montana will always be a part of who I am," Cyrus stated, emphasizing the connection fans have with the show. She added, "What started as a TV show became a shared experience that shaped my life and the lives of so many fans, and I’ll always be thankful for that connection. This ‘Hannahversary’ is my way of celebrating and thanking the fans who’ve stood by me for 20 years."
The event attracted a star-studded audience, including Cyrus's mother, Tish Cyrus, and co-stars like Moisés Arias, Jason Earles, Shanica Knowles, Cody Linley, and Anna Maria Perez de Tagle. Each shared a fondness for the show that had defined a generation of young viewers. Notably absent was Emily Osment, who played Cyrus's on-screen best friend Lily Truscott. Osment explained her absence through an Instagram video, sharing that she was busy filming her new series, George & Mandy’s First Marriage. She expressed gratitude for the love fans continue to show for the show that changed her life.
Jason Earles, who portrayed Jackson Stewart, recalled a humorous incident from his audition process, where he lied about his age, claiming to be 18 when he was actually ten years older. "I was married at the time and thought I was going to be fired and recast," he admitted during a podcast. This anecdote brought laughter to the audience, illustrating the lighthearted spirit of the reunion.
During the event, Cyrus donned a sparkling metallic dress with a graphic Hannah Montana T-shirt underneath, embodying the essence of her iconic character. Her fiancé, Maxx Morando, accompanied her, and the couple appeared happier than ever, sharing affectionate moments on the red carpet. Cyrus's family members, including her sister Brandi Cyrus, also attended, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
The Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special promises to be a heartfelt tribute, featuring never-before-seen archival footage, performances of iconic songs, and appearances from Cyrus's parents, Tish and Billy Ray Cyrus. The special is not just a retrospective but a celebration of the show's enduring legacy, which continues to resonate with fans who grew up watching it.
Reactions to Cyrus's playful roast of Cooper have flooded social media, with fans enjoying the candidness of the moment. One fan commented on Reddit, "Miley dgaffffff this is one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen lmaoooo," highlighting the appreciation for celebrity interactions that feel genuine and unscripted. Another fan remarked, "Too many people are worried about being perfectly media trained all the time. Give me more of this!"
Cooper, who has been open about her admiration for Cyrus, expressed her excitement about hosting the special and her role within the Hannah Montana fandom. She previously stated, "I feel more than qualified to host the programme," emphasizing her dedication to the series. The event served to celebrate the show's past and to acknowledge the impact it has had on fans and the entertainment industry.
The premiere of the special is generating buzz among fans eager to relive their childhood memories. Many have taken to social media to express their anticipation, with comments like, "This outfit is the best of both worlds," and others reminiscing about their favorite moments from the show. Disney has promoted the event extensively on social media, using hashtags like #HannahMontana20 to engage with the fanbase.
With the special set to air on Disney+ and Hulu, viewers can expect an hour-long documentary filled with nostalgic content, interviews, and performances that celebrate the legacy of Hannah Montana. The show, which initially aired for four seasons, launched Cyrus's career and became a cultural phenomenon, influencing a generation of young viewers.
The Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special is more than just a reunion; it’s a heartfelt acknowledgment of the show's impact and a celebration of the community it built. Fans can look forward to a unique blend of nostalgia and new insights into the beloved series. With Cyrus leading the charge, the event promises to be a memorable tribute to a show that continues to hold a special place within the hearts of its audience.
Mark your calendars for March 24, 2026, when the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special will be available for streaming on Disney+, offering a chance for fans to relive the magic and celebrate two decades of Hannah Montana.