Hannah Montana's 20th anniversary special missed a key cast member. Emily Osment explains her absence and shares a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Disney show.
- April 14, 2026
AceShowbiz - Hannah Montana marked its 20th anniversary with a special celebration on Disney+, but not all original cast members were present. Among the notable absences was Emily Osment, who portrayed Miley Stewart’s best friend on the hit Disney Channel series.
Emily Osment did not attend the anniversary special’s premiere, prompting her to address her absence on social media. She shared a heartfelt message reflecting on the impact the show had on her life and career. In her Instagram post, Osment expressed gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing how Hannah Montana taught her valuable lessons in comedy, discipline, patience, and professionalism from a young age.
Alongside her message, Osment posted a video from the set of her CBS sitcom Georgia & Mandy's First Marriage, where she was working with co-star Montana Jordan. This update gave fans an explanation for why she could not participate in the anniversary festivities.
Meanwhile, other cast members like Miley Cyrus were present to commemorate the milestone, attending the special’s premiere and sharing memories from their time on the show. The absence of some actors like Osment was felt by fans, but her thoughtful explanation provided clarity and underscored her continued dedication to her acting career.
The Hannah Montana 20th anniversary special remains a celebration of the show’s lasting influence, even as some original stars focus on their current projects. Osment’s message highlighted the deep respect she holds for the series and the foundational role it played in her growth as a performer.