Lainey Wilson Calls Miley Cyrus an "Inspiration" During Emotional Tribute

Lainey Wilson honored Miley Cyrus in more ways than one at the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony in Anaheim, California, on Sunday, August 11.

The “Watermelon Moonshine” singer stepped on stage in a bedazzled denim ensemble to pay tribute to Miley, the youngest person to ever be dubbed a Disney Legend—someone who has made a lasting impact on the Disney legacy. Her job was to perform the Hannah Montana theme song, “Best of Both Worlds.”

But first, she took a moment to reflect on what the opportunity meant to her. "You might not know this, but I am truly one of your biggest fans,” she revealed, noting that in the early days of her singing career, she cosplayed as Hannah Montana. “I’m talking about at birthday parties, fairs, festivals, you name it—it was me, Lainey Wilson, opening up for me as Hannah Montana. You talk about the best of both worlds. You inspired me to believe in myself that I, too, could be an ordinary girl living in an extraordinary world.”

The 32-year-old singer went on to belt “Best of Both Worlds” and encourage fans to get up and join in. When she finished the nostalgic number, Miley joined her on stage to accept her honor. Lainey described the experience as a pinch-me moment.

“I got the best of both worlds, that’s for sure,” she posted on X. “From performing as Hannah Montana on flatbed trailers at birthday parties to honoring the legend herself…now that right there is what ya call a full circle moment. Miley Cyrus, you’re such an inspiration. Thank you for letting me honor you. Still pinching myself about last night.”

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