While it still feels like yesterday when we were first introduced to the iconic blonde wig and the theme song, it has been 20 years since the world got to know ‘Hannah Montana‘.
Now that the anniversary is here, there’s no better time than this to check out some of the shocking behind-the-scenes facts that will make you fall in love with the show all over again.
10. Miley Cyrus Wore Braces Throughout The Show
During her time in ‘Hannah Montana’, Miley was told by the doctors that she needed to wear braces. But as a lead star of a Disney show, wearing braces at that time was not the most ideal thing. Instead, she had to get lingual braces, which stay hidden behind your teeth. But we would have loved our Miley anyway!
Related: Miley Cyrus Just Ended A 20-Year Debate Over Her ‘Hannah Montana’ Love Triangle
9. The Actual Show Name Of Miley Was Completely Different
The original name for ‘Hannah Montana’ in the show was supposed to be Alexis Texas, but Disney realized that was the name of an adult film star and began looking for alternatives. Miley’s name was also supposed to be Chloe Stewart, which was changed when Miley Cyrus was cast.
8. Hannah Montana Shared The Set With Reese Witherspoon
Fans of the show ‘Big Little Lies’ will realize that the exterior of the Stewart family house was the same as the house we see Reese Witherspoon’s character in. During a fun conversation, Miley Cyrus even pointed out the unexpected crossover. She joked that not many people realize Hannah Montana and Madeline might have technically “lived” in the same house.
7. The Show Gave Birth To Another Beloved Band
Mitchel Musso, best known for playing Oliver Oken on ‘Hannah Montana‘, formed an unexpected real-life connection through the show. While working on set, he met Miley Cyrus’ older brother, Trace Cyrus.
The two quickly bonded over their shared love for music and decided to collaborate, eventually forming the pop-rock band ‘Metro Station‘. The band went on to gain major popularity in the late 2000s, especially with their breakout hit “Shake It,” which became a chart-topping success and remains their most recognizable track.
6. Hannah Montana’s Career Coincided With Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift was brought on to contribute to Hannah Montana’s music at a time when the team was looking for an artist who could genuinely fit a country setting, someone who could, as they put it, “authentically… be performing in a barn.” At that point in her career, Swift’s country roots and storytelling style made her a perfect match.
She went on to become a memorable part of the franchise, even appearing in Hannah Montana: The Movie, where she performed her song “Crazier.” The track became a fan favorite and added to the film’s country charm.
In case you missed it: ‘Hannah Montana’ Star Faked His Age By 10 Years To Play Miley Cyrus’ Brother And Then Got Caught
5. Hannah Montana’s Wardrobe Choice Was Forever 21
Miley Cyrus revealed that before the franchise became a global phenomenon, it had a very tight budget. So, the entire wardrobe of the first season was straight off the racks of Forever 21. The wig was also of poor quality. But Cyrus revealed that the moment she wore the wig, everything clicked, “I was Hannah Montana immediately.”
4. The Anniversary Special Was All Thanks To Aunty Dolly
Miley Cyrus revealed that the ‘Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special‘ on Disney+ only came to be because of a tactic she learned from her godmother, Dolly Parton. “She told me that if you want something to happen, promote it before it exists.”
So, Cyrus started to hint at the special. Just after that, a fan-run social media account posted an AI-generated teaser video that sent the fans into a spiral. With so much hype and love from fans, Disney had to make it happen.
3. Hannah Montana Had A Completely Different Ending
The show had an alternative ending planned, in which we see young Miley playing with dolls and singing about becoming a star in Tennessee, twelve years before the finale. As she goes to bed, the viewers realize that the whole show was her dream.
Though it was a very innovative take, the creators realized that it was a pretty disappointing way to end such a beloved show and created the tear-jerking ending we saw.
2. Miley Cyrus Was the Least Paid Person On Set
Despite being the face of ‘Hannah Montana’, Miley Cyrus revealed she was the lowest-paid cast member during the show’s early days. At the time, she was young and simply excited about the opportunity, without fully understanding the business side.
She explained that she just wanted to be on TV and was grateful for the chance, which meant she didn’t question her pay. In her words, she said she was “probably the least paid person” on set because she “didn’t know any better.”
1. Little Miley’s Iconic T-Shirt That Started It All
Miley Cyrus originally auditioned for the role of Lilly Truscott. The producers encouraged her to try out for the lead role, but realized that she was too young. However, little Miley had her own unforgettable charm. She rocked a t-shirt that said, “I should have my own TV show,” which left the producers in awe.
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