“You enjoy the benefits of both worlds…”
Raise your hand if that theme song still plays on loop in your brain
Whether you grew up watching Hannah Montana on Disney Channel or you just discovered it thanks to Disney+, there’s no denying the show had us all wishing for a double life as a pop star.
But even the most loyal fans might’ve missed a few things. So grab your glitter guitar and fuzzy boots; here are 21 fun things you didn’t know about Hannah Montana that will totally blow your nostalgic mind.
1. The show was almost named Alexis Texas, oops.
Unbelievably, Alexis Texas was one of the initial working titles for the show. But that idea got scrapped quickly when the team realised the name already belonged to… an adult film star. Crisis (and awkward Google searches) averted!
2. Miley originally auditioned for Lilly
Miley Cyrus didn’t go in to be Hannah; she first tried out for Hannah’s best friend, Lilly. However, the producers were so impressed by her presence that they urged her to try out for the lead role. #MainCharacterEnergy
3. The “Hannah” name wasn’t finalized right away
Other name options considered? Anna Cabana and Samantha York. Disney eventually landed on Hannah Montana because it was catchy, American-sounding, and had that sweet double-M alliteration.
4. Jason Earles (aka Jackson) was 29 when the show started
He played Miley’s high school brother, but in real life? Jason Earles was almost 30 when Hannah Montana premiered. That’s some serious skincare and acting magic.
5. The wig had its own team of hairstylists and makeup artists.
That iconic blonde wig wasn’t a cheap costume piece—it was custom-designed and cost up to $3,000 each. The hair team adjusted it each season to reflect Hannah’s evolving “pop star” look.
6. Miley almost didn’t get the job… because of her age
At just 11 years old during auditions, Miley was considered too young. But she persisted, and her charisma (plus her musical talent) won everyone over. By 13, she was officially Hannah Montana.
7. Hannah had genuine fans in real life.
When filming in front of live audiences, Miley (in character as Hannah) often received actual fan mail and flowers. Some young audience members thought Hannah Montana was a real pop star. This assumption was somewhat accurate.
8. Dolly Parton is her godmother IRL and onscreen
Yes, that Dolly. The country legend is Miley’s real-life godmother and also appeared on the show as “Aunt Dolly”. The two have performed together many times and have a close bond to this day.
9. The show inspired a real concert tour
In 2007, Miley hit the road on the Best of Both Worlds Tour, performing as herself and as Hannah Montana. The tour was so popular it sold out within minutes and became a 3D concert movie.
The theme song, “Best of Both Worlds,” charted on Billboard.
“Best of Both Worlds” wasn’t just catchy; it was a hit. It charted on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing Hannah as a legit pop icon.
11. Selena Gomez got her start on the show
Before Wizards of Waverly Place, Selena guest-starred as Mikayla, Hannah’s pop star rival. This sparked one of the most iconic fake feuds in Disney history (and some real-life rumours too).
12. There were over 100 original songs on the show
Between the Hannah Montana albums and performances, the series produced more than 100 original songs, several of which went platinum.
13. Billy Ray Cyrus helped shape the show’s message
Not only did he star as Miley’s dad, but Billy Ray also helped make the show more heartfelt. He worked with writers to include family values and real-life moments between him and Miley.
14. Hannah’s style inspired a whole fashion line
Remember the sparkly dresses and colourful boots? Disney launched a Hannah Montana clothing line in stores like Walmart and Sears. Tween wardrobes were forever changed.
15. Miley’s real voice was edited for the show
To make Hannah and Miley sound different, producers used pitch-altering and vocal techniques. Miley’s natural voice is deeper; what you heard on the show was polished and pop-starified.
16. Several real bands guest-starred
The Jonas Brothers weren’t the only ones. Corbin Bleu, Jesse McCartney, and Taylor Swift all appeared or were referenced on the show—blending Disney Channel fantasy with real celeb culture.
17. Hannah’s outfits were inspired by Gwen Stefani and Hilary Duff
Producers cited Gwen’s edgy glam and Hilary’s wholesome pop vibe as the style blueprint for Hannah’s look. Think: layered skirts, funky boots, and LOTS of rhinestones.
18. The set had over 20 hidden Mickeys
Disney tradition! Set designers placed tiny hidden Mickeys all over the Hannah Montana set. Fans have spotted them in Jackson’s room, Rico’s shack, and even in the Stewart family kitchen.
19. Emily Osment (Lilly) did most of her stunts
She was more than just comedic relief—Emily did most of her own stunt work, including skating, surfing, and wild physical comedy scenes.
20. The show tackled grief and identity
While Hannah Montana was a comedy, it also dealt with deep issues—like the loss of Miley’s mom and struggles with self-worth. Many fans say the show helped them navigate tough parts of growing up.
21. Fans watched the final episode 6.2 million times.
When the series finale aired in January 2011, over 6 million viewers tuned in. It was the end of an era—but the legacy lives on.
Final Thoughts
Hannah Montana wasn’t just a show—it was a pop culture movement. With catchy songs, heartfelt moments, and plenty of sparkles, it gave us the best of both worlds in every episode.
Even years later, we’re still finding new reasons to fall in love with the show all over again. And now that it’s all streaming on Disney+, what better time for a rewatch party?
