Emily Osment and Mitchel Musso Honor Hannah Montana at 20th Anniversary

Emily Osment and Mitchel Musso may have missed the red carpet at the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special premiere on March 23, 2026, but they made sure to connect with fans through heartfelt social media messages. The absence of both actors, who played key roles on the beloved Disney Channel series, was felt but explained through emotional tributes shared online.

Osment, known for her portrayal of Lilly Truscott, shared a video on Instagram, filmed on the set of her current show, Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage. "We are at the 'Georgie & Mandy' set, and that’s why I was not able to be a part of the 20-year reunion, because we are here shooting our show," she explained. The actress expressed her gratitude to fans, saying, "I’m so grateful that you guys all still love the show. I’m so proud to be a part of it… We appreciate you. Lots of love."

Osment, 34, emphasized how much Hannah Montana has shaped her life and career. "Hannah Montana changed my life, it gave me a lifelong respect for this medium of comedy, it taught me discipline, patience, timing and respect working with adults at a young age," she shared. Her emotional post resonated with many, especially fans who have continued to support the show over the years. "I can’t tell you what your sweet messages mean to me and how lucky I feel to have been part of this once-in-a-generation goliath of a television show," she added.

Mitchel Musso, who played Oliver Oken, also took to Instagram to share his thoughts on the show's legacy. He posted a series of throwback photos, stating, "Hannah Montana wrapped around my heart and never really let go. We literally grew up with ya’ll — long days, crazy schedules, learning lines, cracking up between takes, and figuring out life with the cameras rolling." Musso noted that the most rewarding aspect of the series was witnessing fans build families and share the show with their children.

Musso's heartfelt message included a shout-out to his former co-stars: "Miley, Emily, Jason, Billy Ray, Moisés, and the whole crew at Disney — you became my family through all the real, messy, beautiful moments. Thank you for believing a goofy kid from Texas who wore some questionable outfits with a haircut like that. To all of you, thank you for welcoming me into your homes and hearts 20 years ago and still allowing me to be here today. I’m honored we get to share all of this together." He did not specify why he missed the premiere.

The Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special premiered on Disney+ and Hulu on March 24, 2026, featuring Miley Cyrus performing fan-favorite tracks from the series, an interview conducted by Alex Cooper, and a surprise appearance from Selena Gomez, who guest-starred on the show during its second season. The special celebrates the enduring impact of the series, which originally aired from 2006 to 2010.

Fans of the show have been eagerly anticipating this special, with many expressing nostalgia for the characters and storylines that shaped their childhood. The original series followed Miley Stewart, played by Cyrus, who led a double life: a regular teenage girl by day and a pop star by night. The dynamics between Miley and her friends, especially Lilly, played by Osment, were central to the show's charm.

Osment’s absence was felt deeply by fans who have followed her career since the show's inception. She has transitioned into new roles, including her current character, Mandy McAllister, on the CBS sitcom, which is a sequel to the Big Bang Theory spinoff, Young Sheldon. Many fans took to social media to express their disappointment about her absence from the anniversary special, with some commenting on how much they missed her character.

Osment's heartfelt message and Musso's reflective post highlight the lasting impact of Hannah Montana on both the actors and the audience. The show has not only entertained millions but has also created a community of fans who cherish the memories and lessons learned from the series.

With the special now available for streaming, fans can relive the magic of Hannah Montana and celebrate the legacy that continues to resonate with audiences today. The reunion may have been bittersweet for Osment and Musso, but their messages remind everyone of the importance of connection and gratitude, especially after 20 years. Osment concluded her post with a hopeful note, saying, "Thank you for letting me into your living rooms and I hope to still be there many years from now." This sentiment captures the essence of Hannah Montana – a show that has truly become a part of its fans' lives.