In a new cover story for VARIETY, Miley Cyrus speaks with TV Reporter Ethan Shanfeld for the 20th anniversary of Hannah Montana. Cyrus talks about her transformations throughout the years post-Hannah Montana, potentially headlining next year’s Super Bowl halftime show, getting sober, advice from Dolly Parton, Chappell Roan, and more.
On advice Dolly Parton gave to her on promoting the 20th Anniversary of Hannah Montana:
“I learned this terrible habit — but I actually think it was good advice — from Dolly. She told me that if you want something to happen, promote it before it exists. Then no one can say no. So I just started promoting a ‘Hannah Montana’ 20th-anniversary special that literally did not exist.”
On practicing songs again from her Hannah Montana days:
“It was literally a bike. The dancers were doing stuff, and I’m like, ‘That’s not original! And they’re like, ‘Well, we’re trying to make it modern.’ I’m like, ‘It ain’t broke — don’t fix it!’”
On her post-Hannah Montana progression:
“I wasn’t trying to kill Hannah off. I was just progressing. Being recognizable as a teen going through different phases and stages was sometimes awkward, but that’s what helped me relate to the kids watching at home. I boldly and unapologetically presented myself to the world at that time, where I could have gone the other way and played it safe. 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.”
On being the betting favorite to headline next year’s Super Bowl halftime show:
“I always think the Super Bowl feels like too much pressure. I would have to do the mental work of making it not about the Super Bowl, because then you can’t help but go, ‘It’s millions of people, and it’s the most- watched thing in the world.’ But if I could find a way to make it exactly what the Hannahversary was — taking a journey through the discography and appreciating each song, each era for what it is — I think I could find it in myself.”
On reaching out to Chappell Roan about challenges with fan harassment:
“I never bow down to bullies. Anytime I feel like somebody is being bullied, I feel very protective of them. When I see people struggling, I’m always the first one to ask, ‘Can I get in contact with them?’ I’d like to show artists how they can have a balanced life.”
[Photo Credit: Greg Swales for Variety]
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