Miley Cyrus, Jamie Lee Curtis, and More Honored at 2024 Disney Legends Awards

Some of Hollywood’s brightest stars, including “Avatar” director James Cameron, “Hannah Montana” alum Miley Cyrus, and “Live” host Kelly Ripa, were among the 14 Disney Legends honored at the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony on Sunday, Aug. 11, at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

“American Idol’s” Ryan Seacrest hosted the ceremony, paying tribute to individuals who have significantly contributed to Disney throughout their careers.

Among the honorees were Angela Bassett, known for roles in “Black Panther” and Disney’s “Soul,” and Jamie Lee Curtis, star of “Freaky Friday.” “Star Wars” legend Harrison Ford was also honored.

Behind the camera, the honorees included costume designer Colleen Atwood, Martha Blanding, animator Mark Henn, director and puppeteer Frank Oz, designer Joe Rohde, and composer John Williams. Steve Ditko was honored posthumously, with his nephew accepting on his behalf.

During the ceremony, Disney CEO Bob Iger introduced Harrison Ford as a “timeless hero” and a “man of integrity.” Ford, visibly emotional, thanked his collaborators and acknowledged Iger’s contribution to the creative industry.

Lindsay Lohan and Jodie Foster inducted Curtis into the Legends class of 2024. Reflecting on her experience with Disney, Curtis said, “Legends aren’t born. They are created. … You are the legends because, without you, none of this is possible.”

During the evening, Seacrest reunited with Kelly Ripa. Ripa, expressing her gratitude, said, “To be employed by the same company for 34 years is my great good fortune. I owe everything to Disney.”

Ripa also reminisced about meeting her husband, Mark Consuelos, while both were actors on the ABC soap “All My Children.”

Derek Hough presented the award to Martha Blanding, who received a standing ovation. In addition, Lainey Wilson performed and presented the award to Miley Cyrus, praising her for being true to herself.

Miley Cyrus, honored as the youngest Disney Legend, became emotional as she reflected on her career, especially her role in “Hannah Montana.” She dedicated the honor to the character, noting that “Hannah Montana” made her who she is today.

Mark Ditko accepted on behalf of his late uncle, Steve Ditko. Kate Winslet appeared via video to honor James Cameron, with Zoe Saldana presenting the award to the Oscar-winning director.

“Black Panther” director Ryan Coogler introduced Angela Bassett. In her acceptance speech, Bassett mentioned, “When I think of Disney, ‘The Princess and the Frog’ comes to mind as an example of imaginative storytelling … a beautiful groundbreaking black princess.” She thanked her supporters and acknowledged the fans, calling them “the magic.”

Williams could not attend, but Harrison Ford and Kathleen Kennedy honored him, with the Pacific Symphony performing a medley of his music.

Seacrest closed the ceremony with Mickey and Minnie Mouse, as the 2024 Disney Legends gathered for a group photo.

Bob Iger remarked, “The fourteen individuals honored as Disney Legends this year have each made extraordinary creative contributions across the worlds of Disney.”

Source: ABC News, Good Morning America