Photo: Jason Earles
Hannah Montana fans are truly living the dream as one of Disney Channel’s most influential shows turns 20 this March.
Gen Z (and younger Millennials) are embracing their inner supergirls and taking social media by storm with outfit recreations, dances and impersonations of Hannah Montana, originally played by Miley Cyrus.
A TV show that tells the story of an ordinary girl from Nashville – Miley Stewart, who also doubles as pop-sensation Hannah Montana. Once she puts on her blonde wig and sparkly outfit – she’s a completely different person. She truly has the best of both worlds, but that comes with its own challenges.
Hannah Montana, released in 2006, stayed on air for four seasons, gaining traction instantly and creating a community of young fans who grew up with the characters as the show went on. Followed by the Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus Best of Both Worlds Concert movie (2008) and Hannah Montana: The Movie (2009). As we approach the 20th anniversary of the show on 24 March, fans are in anticipation of the big surprise. Rumour has it that it’s something between a reunion movie, a reunion concert or a reunion interview/sit-down with Miley herself.
“I literally grew up on Hannah Montana, my older sister made me watch it and it was the best thing she’s ever done!” – said Hannah Montana enthusiast Séan @encoreerablanks on Instagram, who also makes blankets, dedicated to the show.
Hannah Montana was an inspiration to millions of children, myself included. She taught us to believe in ourselves, to dream but also how important it is to work hard and never give up –lessons that are valuable to this day and, although, her influence isn’t as strong among younger generations, it certainly stays relevant to kids nowadays, especially with the popularisation of social media that, frankly, has given the show a second life.
“It’s all so humbling,” said Jason Earles in an interview for The River, who played Miley’s older brother Jackson on the show. “I knew we were doing something special when we were making the show, but I had no idea it would still have a life of its own 20 years later,” he added. Having been a part of the Disney Channel family for many years, Jason openly speaks about his experiences on the show and fondly responds to online nostalgia: “So much of Hannah Montana lives online now, it’s really overwhelming to me, it’s such a special thing to be a part of,” said Earles. He’s in the middle of launching his podcast called Best of Both Our Worlds, which he refers to as “the official unofficial podcast”, dedicated to everything behind the scenes of Hannah Montana.
Decades pass, but Hannah Montana’s music lives on. Consider 24 March international HM day. Die-hard fans, assemble, prepare your blonde wigs, sparkly scarves and vocal cords. Rest assured that I’ll be taking part in this nostalgic flashmob and unleashing my inner-rockstar alongside fans around the world.