Dolly Parton Reflects On Her Beloved Role In Hit Television Series

Published Mar 25, 2026 By Carli Eastwood

Dolly Parton Reflects On Her Time In Hannah Montana (Instagram/Dolly Parton)

Hannah Montana Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary

20 years ago, Miley Cyrus first stepped into the role of Miley Ray Stewart, better known to the world as Hannah Montana. The Disney Channel series became an instant hit, blending relatable teen life with catchy pop songs, and catapulting Cyrus to international fame.

One of the show’s most unforgettable highlights was the recurring guest appearances of country music icon Dolly Parton, who portrayed “Aunt Dolly” three times between 2006 and 2010.

It was only fitting Dolly played the role of Hannah’s aunt, as she is actually Miley’s godmother in real life.

To celebrate the major milestone, Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special premiered on Disney+ on Tuesday (March 24). In the special, Miley revisits her time as Hannah Montana and reflects on what the show meant to her and fans around the world.

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Miley Cyrus Credits Dolly Parton For The Hannah Montana Anniversary Special

Speaking with Variety recently, Miley detailed how the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special likely would have never come together had Miley not taken the advice of her godmother.

“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.”

Over the years, Dolly has served as a mentor and trusted family friend of the entire Cyrus family, offering guidance and support both personally and professionally. The bond goes back to Miley’s childhood, rooted in her long-standing friendship with Miley’s father, Billy Ray Cyrus.

“Dolly is not only my idol because of her incomparable career—she’s also my role model because of her steadfast morals and values,” Cyrus shared in 2021. “At her core, she is the definition of a humanitarian. She’s also the world’s most impeccably purposeful walking contradiction, having developed her iconic look after being inspired by the town tramp. Now she’s known as a saintly, even godlike, figure. …There’s a theory that you shouldn’t meet your heroes, but I wish everyone had the chance to meet Dolly Parton, because she’s even better than your sparkliest dreams. She may be my fairy godmother, but I think she’s that to everyone else too. I am happy to share her with the world.”

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Dolly Reflects On Her Role In Hannah Montana

On Tuesday (March 24), Dolly took to her social media stories to commemorate the special occassion. The country music legend shared a clip from the show and wrote:

“Reminiscing on my time as Aunt Dolly. When Hannah Montana came on the air and [Miley Cyrus], my little goddaughter, was the star of it, I was so proud of her. I thought she was sensational.”

In the scene, Miley seeks advice from her godmother and on-screen Aunt Dolly.

“Darlin’, I am so sorry,” Dolly says. “I just forget sometimes. Being a teenage girl is harder than walking through a balloon shop with a porcupine purse.”