Miley Cyrus, Harrison Ford, Angela Bassett are more were recognized on August 11 as Disney Legends. In a star-studded ceremony at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, Disney celebrated the induction of 14 luminaries into its esteemed Legends club. The event, part of the D23 Expo, paid tribute to these influential figures who have left an indelible mark on the company’s legacy.
The ceremony was a true celebration of talent, with several renowned actors gracing the stage to receive their well-deserved honors. Harrison Ford, the legendary star of the “Indiana Jones” and “Star Wars” franchises, was one of the first to be inducted. Visibly emotional, Ford expressed his gratitude to Disney CEO Bob Iger, crediting him for his professional guidance and friendship throughout his illustrious career.
Angela Bassett, the acclaimed actress known for her powerful performances in films like “Black Panther” and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” was also recognized for her contributions. Bassett, who received an Oscar nomination for her role as Ramonda in the latter film, thanked her fans, referring to them as “the magic” that fuels her success.
In a historic moment, Grammy winner, Miley Cyrus became the youngest recipient of the Disney Legend honor at just 31 years old. The global icon, who rose to fame with the hit Disney Channel series “Hannah Montana,” was visibly moved as she accepted the award. Cyrus paid tribute to her breakout role, dedicating the honor to the show’s loyal fans and expressing her pride in being a part of the “Hannah Montana” legacy. “Hannah Montana” aired from 2006-2011 on the Disney Channel and spawned two theatrical movies. It was a billion dollar franchise, said to be the second biggest to Mickey Mouse in merchandise sales.
The ceremony also recognized the contributions of several esteemed filmmakers and creative minds behind some of Disney’s most iconic projects. James Cameron, the visionary director of films like “Titanic” and “Avatar,” expressed his joy at being part of the Disney family, calling it a “dream come true.”
Legendary composer John Williams, whose iconic scores have defined the soundtracks of countless Disney films, was honored in absentia. Harrison Ford and Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy paid tribute to Williams, with Ford describing him as “the greatest film composer of all time.”
In addition to the high-profile names, Disney also honored several behind-the-scenes talents who have played crucial roles in shaping the company’s creative endeavors. Colleen Atwood, an Oscar-winning costume designer, and Mark Henn, a prominent animator known for his work on several Disney princesses, were among those recognized.
The late Steve Ditko, the legendary comics artist responsible for creating iconic characters like Spider-Man and Doctor Strange, was also inducted posthumously, celebrating his lasting impact on the Marvel universe.
The Disney Legends ceremony showcased the company’s commitment to recognizing the diverse array of talents that have contributed to its success. From actors and filmmakers to animators and costume designers, the event celebrated the collective efforts of these individuals in creating the magic that has captivated audiences worldwide.
As the honorees took the stage, their speeches were filled with heartfelt gratitude, reminiscences, and a shared appreciation for the opportunities Disney has provided them throughout their careers. The ceremony served as a reminder of the enduring power of storytelling and the lasting impact these legends have had on generations of fans.
While honoring the achievements of the past, the Disney Legends ceremony also looked to the future, inspiring the next generation of creatives and storytellers. The event celebrated the timeless nature of Disney’s magic, which continues to transcend generations and captivate audiences of all ages. Their induction serves as a testament to the enduring power of imagination, creativity, and the ability to touch hearts and minds through the art of storytelling. The Disney Legends Ceremony will stream on Disney + on August 12.
