8 Things That Absolutely MUST Happen In The Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special
The Hannah Montana 20th anniversary special is almost upon us, and I couldn’t be more excited. It is set to drop on Disney+ on March 24, which, ironically, is the exact date the first episode of Hannah Montana aired 20 years ago.
The special is set to be led by Alex Cooper, the media personality best known for her widely-popular podcast, Call Her Daddy. Filmed with a live audience, the special is set to include an interview with Miley Cyrus herself, a tour around some of the most iconic sets, and never-before-seen footage. Disney has also hinted that songs may be performed, with the press release teasing that “some familiar notes will find their way back into the spotlight.”
Before we embark on the nostalgia train, I want to speak for all the millennials and geriatric Gen Z-ers who are looking forward to this special and break down exactly what it is I, and they, want to see.
1. Musical Performances
I really do hope that Disney isn’t bluffing — why make a reunion show about a fictional pop star if said pop star doesn’t perform some of her greatest hits?
Nothing would make my inner child happier than a performance of ‘The Best of Both Worlds,’ ‘Nobody’s Perfect,’ ‘He Could Be The One’ plus the obvious tearjerker — ‘I’ll Always Remember You.’ Music is an integral part of Hannah Montana’s DNA, so it makes sense for the show to champion that.
2. A Cast Reunion
Of course, Miley’s return is what really makes it special, but reuniting with the cast to celebrate this milestone seems only right. People I’d love to see include:
Emily Osment (Lily Truscott),
Billy Ray Cyrus (Robby Ray Stewart),
Jason Earles (Jackson Stewart),
and, of course, Miley’s two love interests: Cody Linley (Jake Ryan) and Drew Roy (Jesse).
3. Special Celebrity Guests
Along with the main cast, Hannah Montana has had countless celebrity appearances during its run, the most notable being fellow Disney alum Selena Gomez and the Dolly Parton.
Given Hannah Montana’s influence on pop culture, it feels only right that some of the leaders of modern culture come together to celebrate this milestone. Also, I’ll take any excuse to see Dolly Parton because she’s simply iconic.
4. A Reunion Episode
Okay, this one is probably a little too far-fetched, but wouldn’t it be cool to know how Miley and Co. are navigating life 20 years later?
A full reboot may be a little too far, but a special, one-off episode catching up with some of our favourite characters would really resonate with audiences and make the special as a whole all the more, well, special.
5. Behind the Scenes Stories and Secrets
With four seasons and a movie, there must be some hilarious behind-the-scenes stories out there. And if the rest of the cast is there with Miley, it would be the perfect chance to share them.
Moreover, general behind-the-scenes secrets and Easter eggs would perfectly complement the archival footage that is meant to be shown. It would give us insight into the Disney Channel glory days that we’ve never had before.
6. A Fan Tribute
Sure, Hannah Montana is a pop culture behemoth, but it wouldn’t be where it is today if it weren’t for us — the passionate fanbase. Many of us grew up watching the show, making it a real nostalgic gem. So, given the part we played in the Hannah Montana craze, it feels only right that our longstanding passion for the show is recognised and celebrated.
7. Montages of the Best Moments
What would a reunion show be without a montage, or three? I, for one, would love to chart the journey of some of Hannah Montana’s best moments over the years, and a montage would be the perfect way to execute this. After all, who doesn’t love a highlights reel?
8. That Wig
Sorry, but ‘Best of Both Worlds’ just won’t hit the same unless it’s paired with the iconic Hannah wig. Her secret identity is what makes the show so addictive, so, before she hangs up the wig forever, it would really be something special if Miley took it out for a spin just one last time.
