Can you believe it? Twenty years ago, a 13-year-old Miley Cyrus made her debut as Hannah Montana, captivating millions of viewers when the show premiered on Disney Channel on March 24, 2006!

I still can’t believe it’s been 20 years since Hannah Montana first aired! I vividly remember the early days of her rise to fame. I believe it was right after an episode of The Suite Life of Zack & Cody that the very first episode aired. Before watching the “Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special,” I re-watched the pilot and was blown away by how young Miley was. Even then, it was clear she was truly something special—she had “it.” Listening to the theme song “Best of Both Worlds” still gives me the same thrill as it did all those years ago and always puts a smile on my face. And it’s such an incredible full-circle moment for Miley, knowing that the first song in the show was “This Is The Life.” I can’t recommend enough watching that pilot before the special because it will just make the event hit way more powerfully.

Miley performed three songs in front of an audience during the special. Of course, she started the night with “Best of Both Worlds.” Her second song was “This Is The Life,” the first song she performed as Hannah Montana in the pilot, and her final song of the night was “The Climb” from “Hannah Montana: The Movie.”

Throughout the special, exciting guest appearances kept everyone on the edge of their seats, including her mom, Trish, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and the show’s profound impact on their family. A surprise guest, Selena Gomez, delighted Miley as they reminisced about their time working together, creating a truly heartwarming moment. The highlight of the special was undoubtedly seeing Miley reunited with her dad, Billy Ray Cyrus, on set – an incredible, surreal sight that reminded everyone of how far they’ve come. The celebration continued with a touching reading of a key episode from season four, in which Miley faced the decision to reveal her secret as Hannah Montana to the world.

Did you know that in “Hannah Montana: The Movie,” a young Taylor Swift not only performed but also wrote the unforgettable closing song, “You’ll Always Find Your Way Back Home?” I couldn’t believe Miley herself said that! But after giving the song another listen, I can totally hear Taylor’s touch throughout – it all clicks now.

The special truly hits all the things fans love. Thank you, Miley, for bringing Hannah Montana into our lives and growing up with us. Hannah Montana forever! Happy Hananniversary! You can now catch the special on Disney+ and Hulu.

Gallery Photos from the Special :