Miley Cyrus Addresses Infamous VMAs Moment And Her ‘Bangerz’ Era

Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at 5:15 PM

Miley Cyrus is taking a candid look back at one of the most talked-about transformations in pop culture history. The Miley Cyrus Addresses Infamous VMAs Moment And Her ‘Bangerz’ Era first appeared on The Blast

Miley Cyrus is taking a candid look back at one of the most talked-about transformations in pop culture history, her shift away from “Hannah Montana.” While fans once believed she was trying to completely distance herself from the Disney character, Miley Cyrus is now opening up about why that chapter of reinvention was necessary, even if it came with controversy.

Miley Cyrus’ Post-Disney Rebrand Shocked Fans

Miley Cyrus at 2013 MTV VMA IN NYC
CESAR RIVERA/©2013 RAMEY PHOTO/MEGA

After “Hannah Montana” wrapped in 2012, Cyrus quickly shed her squeaky-clean Disney image, and the world took notice. By 2013, the then-20-year-old debuted a dramatically different look and persona, trading in her iconic blonde wig for a bleached pixie cut and embracing a more rebellious lifestyle.

One of the most talked-about moments of Miley Cyrus’ post-Disney transformation came during her now-infamous performance at the MTV Video Music Awards. Taking the stage alongside Robin Thicke, Cyrus delivered a provocative set that instantly sparked widespread debate across pop culture. The performance, which featured her twerking onstage, was seen by many as a clear break from her “Hannah Montana” image.

At one point, she even leaned into the narrative herself. While hosting “Saturday Night Live,” Cyrus joked that Hannah Montana had been “murdered,” a moment that only fueled speculation about her feelings toward the character.

Despite the shock factor of her transformation, Cyrus has since made it clear that her connection to Hannah Montana never truly disappeared.

Cyrus Says Hannah Montana Still Holds ‘A Very Special Place’ In Her Heart

Miley Cyrus as Hannah Montana
©2008 RAMEY PHOTO /MEGA

Looking back on the show’s legacy, she once wrote, “Even though HM is chopped up into little tiny pieces and buried in my backyard, she will always hold a very special place in my heart!”

Now, speaking to Variety, she acknowledged how growing up in the spotlight shaped her journey. “Being recognizable as a teen going through different phases and stages was sometimes awkward,” the singer told the outlet. “But that’s what helped me relate to the kids watching at home.”

Taking Risks Helped Shape Miley Cyrus’ Career Longevity

Miley Cyrus
LISA OConnor/ AFF-USA.COM / MEGA

Cyrus admits that stepping away from her Disney roots wasn’t the safest move, but it was one she believes ultimately paid off. “I boldly and unapologetically presented myself to the world at that time, where I could have gone the other way and played it safe,” Cyrus said of her era after “Hannah Montana” wrapped.

She continued, “Maybe that would have been successful at the time, and it wouldn’t have been such a cross to bear, but I wouldn’t have had the reward. I don’t know if I would have had the sustainability that my career has now.”

Rather than sticking to familiar territory with more Disney projects, Cyrus chose to evolve, a decision that helped define her as an artist beyond her early fame.

Cyrus Credits Her Mom For Supporting Every Era

Miley Cyrus and mom Tish Cyrus shopping together
©2009 RAMEY PHOTO / MEGA

Throughout all the highs and lows, Cyrus says one constant in her life has been her mother’s unwavering support. “When you’re a kid, your parents don’t want to buy you a jacket that’s your actual size because you’re still growing; they buy you a size up so it can last longer,” Miley said. “That’s what my mom did for me in my career.”

That bond is so strong, it’s even been permanently documented. “My mom literally has ‘The Climb’ lyrics tattooed down her back,” the singer said, referring to one of her biggest hits of all time. “Like a full chorus and a bridge.”

Cyrus added with a laugh, “People always ask her, ‘What were you thinking when Miley was doing those wild things?’ She’s like, ‘I was the one telling her to do it!’”

Miley Cyrus Says ‘Hannah Montana’ Is ‘Not Just A TV Show’ As Special Drops

Elsewhere in the interview, Cyrus told Variety she understands that “Hannah Montana” is “not just a TV show.”

“I see daily how important Hannah is to people,” the singer continued. “When I travel, people bring me Hannah merch. They ask, ‘Are you ever going to do another season?'”

And now, fans are finally getting their wish. The “Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special” is set to drop on Disney+ and Hulu on Tuesday, March 24.

The Miley Cyrus Addresses Infamous VMAs Moment And Her ‘Bangerz’ Era first appeared on The Blast

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