Miley Cyrus took the stage Sunday at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California where she was honored as a Disney Legend.

Country music star and actress Lainey Wilson performed the “Hannah Montana” theme song, “Best of Both Worlds,” as part of the presentation of Miley’s award.

The 31-year-old performer made history as the youngest person ever to receive the Disney Legend honor.

During her acceptance speech, Miley became emotional as she reflected on the early days of her career.

“I’m going to let everyone in on a little Disney Legend secret. I’m the one who tells you what you’re not supposed to know. And what I want to say is that legends get scared, too. I’m scared right now, but the difference is we do it anyway, and all of you can do that every single day. It’s legendary to be afraid and do it anyway. There is no such thing as failure when you try,” she said, wiping away tears.

Miley was accompanied by her mother, Tish, and sister, Brandi, at the event.

Miley also shared a lighthearted moment, saying, “In 2005, Disney was on a mission to rebuild the company. That’s why they hired Bob Iger and me.”

She continued, “I stand here still proud to have been Hannah Montana. This award is dedicated to Hannah and all of her amazing, loyal fans, and to everyone who has made my dream a reality. To quote the legend herself, ‘This is the life.’”

Miley Cyrus’s journey to becoming a Disney Legend is a story of resilience, reinvention, and relentless pursuit of passion. Born into a family with deep roots in the music industry—her father being country music star Billy Ray Cyrus—Miley was no stranger to the spotlight.

However, it was her role as Miley Stewart, a teenager living a double life as pop star Hannah Montana, that catapulted her into global fame.

Reflecting on those early days, Miley became emotional during her acceptance speech, sharing with the audience the weight of the honor and the challenges that come with being in the spotlight. “I’m going to let everyone in on a little Disney Legend secret.

I’m the one who tells you what you’re not supposed to know. And what I want to say is that legends get scared, too. I’m scared right now, but the difference is we do it anyway, and all of you can do that every single day. It’s legendary to be afraid and do it anyway. There is no such thing as failure when you try,” she said, wiping away tears.

These words resonated deeply with the audience, as Miley opened up about the vulnerability that often accompanies success. Her message was clear: being legendary isn’t about being fearless; it’s about facing your fears head-on and persevering despite them. This candid moment served as a reminder that even those who are celebrated as legends experience self-doubt and fear, but what sets them apart is their courage to continue pushing forward.

Miley’s journey has always been closely tied to her family, and this milestone was no exception. Accompanied by her mother, Tish, and sister, Brandi, Miley stood on stage surrounded by the people who have been her pillars of support throughout her career. The presence of her family highlighted the importance of their unwavering support in her life and career, and it was clear that this moment was as much a celebration for them as it was for Miley.

During the ceremony, Miley shared a lighthearted moment that showcased her trademark wit and humor. “In 2005, Disney was on a mission to rebuild the company. That’s why they hired Bob Iger and me,” she quipped, eliciting laughter from the audience. This playful jab at her younger self, alongside one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry, Bob Iger, was a testament to her ability to look back on her journey with both pride and a sense of humor.

Miley Cyrus’s legacy is undoubtedly intertwined with her role as Hannah Montana, a character that became a cultural phenomenon and a symbol of a generation. For many, Hannah Montana was more than just a TV show; it was a formative experience that shaped their childhoods and introduced them to the world of music and entertainment. Miley has often spoken about the impact that playing Hannah had on her life, both personally and professionally, and how it laid the foundation for the artist she is today.

In her acceptance speech, Miley paid tribute to her iconic alter ego and the fans who have supported her from the beginning. “I stand here still proud to have been Hannah Montana. This award is dedicated to Hannah and all of her amazing, loyal fans, and to everyone who has made my dream a reality. To quote the legend herself, ‘This is the life,’” she said, referencing the famous catchphrase from the show.

This acknowledgment was a poignant reminder of the journey Miley has been on since “Hannah Montana” first aired. While she has since moved on to explore different facets of her artistry—releasing hit albums, embarking on successful tours, and taking on various acting roles—Hannah Montana remains a cornerstone of her career. The character not only introduced Miley to the world but also allowed her to grow and evolve as an artist, ultimately leading her to this moment of recognition as a Disney Legend.

As Miley Cyrus stood on the stage, accepting the Disney Legend honor, it was clear that this was not just an award for her past achievements but also a recognition of the influence she continues to have on the entertainment industry. From her early days as a Disney star to her bold reinvention as a pop icon, Miley has consistently pushed boundaries and redefined what it means to be a successful artist in the modern era.

Her acceptance speech, filled with emotion, humor, and wisdom, encapsulated the essence of what it means to be a Disney Legend. It’s not just about the fame or the accolades; it’s about the journey, the struggles, and the triumphs that shape who you are. Miley’s story is one of perseverance, self-discovery, and staying true to oneself, even in the face of adversity.

As she continues to evolve as an artist and a person, Miley Cyrus’s legacy as a Disney Legend will undoubtedly inspire future generations of performers. Her journey from Hannah Montana to global superstar serves as a powerful reminder that success is not defined by the absence of fear but by the courage to overcome it. And in doing so, Miley has truly embodied the spirit of a Disney Legend.

WATCH THE VIDEO: