Lead Actors Absent from "Hannah Montana" 20th Anniversary Event
Entertainment

Lead Actors Absent from "Hannah Montana" 20th Anniversary Event

authorBy Ta-Nehisi Coates
DateMar 24, 2026
Read time2 min

The 20th-anniversary celebration for the beloved Disney Channel series "Hannah Montana" recently took place, but without the physical presence of two key cast members, Emily Osment and Mitchel Musso. Despite their absence from the Hollywood premiere, both actors used social media to acknowledge the milestone and extend heartfelt messages to the dedicated fanbase, highlighting the show's lasting legacy and their appreciation for the enduring support from viewers.

Emily Osment, known for her role as Lilly Truscott in "Hannah Montana," conveyed her regrets regarding her inability to attend the anniversary event. Her schedule was occupied with the filming of her current CBS sitcom, "Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage." From the set, Osment shared a video expressing her gratitude to fans for two decades of unwavering support, emphasizing her pride in having been part of such a significant series. Her co-star, Montana Jordan, also joined her in sending well wishes to the "Hannah Montana" community.

Similarly, Mitchel Musso, who portrayed Oliver Oken in the series, shared a personal statement on Instagram. While he did not specify the reason for his absence from the premiere, Musso reflected on the profound connection he felt with the audience. He spoke of the joy in witnessing fans grow up with the show, form their own families, and introduce "Hannah Montana" to a new generation. Musso specifically thanked his co-stars—Miley Cyrus, Emily Osment, Jason Earles, Billy Ray Cyrus, and Moisés Arias—and the entire Disney crew, acknowledging them as family and expressing his honor to have shared such a remarkable journey with everyone involved.

The "Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special" is set to be released on March 24 on Disney+ and Hulu. This commemorative event will feature lead star Miley Cyrus performing fan-favorite songs from the show, an exclusive interview conducted by Alex Cooper of "Call Me Daddy," and a special guest appearance by fellow Disney alum Selena Gomez. Gomez, who guest-starred in Season 2 of "Hannah Montana" as the rival pop star Mikayla Skeech, adds another nostalgic element to the highly anticipated special.

Although key cast members Emily Osment and Mitchel Musso could not physically attend the "Hannah Montana" 20th-anniversary premiere, their digital tributes underscored the show's enduring impact and their deep appreciation for the fans. Their messages, filled with nostalgia and gratitude, resonated with the audience, reinforcing the strong bond between the cast and its loyal following. The upcoming special on Disney+ and Hulu promises to be a memorable celebration of the series that touched so many lives.

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