Miley Cyrus Honored with Innovator Award at 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards
Miley Cyrus received the Innovator Award at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards, recognized for her significant influence on music and culture. The award highlights her fearless evolution and connection with fans worldwide.
This week is proving to be quite celebratory for Miley Cyrus, as she not only commemorates the 20th anniversary of Hannah Montana but also receives a prestigious honor.
At the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards on Thursday night (March 26), Cyrus was presented with the Innovator Award. The presenter was none other than Lainey Wilson, who once worked as a Hannah Montana impersonator. Wilson expressed that Cyrus is “one of my biggest inspirations.”
“Miley Cyrus is what happens when fearlessness meets evolution,” Wilson stated. “She didn’t just grow up in front of the world. She redefined herself in front of it over and over — and then over again — from breaking out of a box that people tried to put her in.”
As Cyrus approached the stage, the audience erupted in chants of her name.
“They’re gonna ‘Luda’ me,” she joked, referencing the speech cut-off sound at this year’s ceremony, hosted by Ludacris. “Someone tell Luda this does not count as my 45 seconds.”
Cyrus also acknowledged the Hannah Montana anniversary, noting that the week’s celebration has been “a dream come true.”
“Hannah Montana inspired me so much in my own career,” Cyrus shared. “I fell in love with the idea that you can create a persona that gives you the confidence and the courage to perform authentically.”
Cyrus also reflected on her personal definition of innovation, emphasizing the joy in self-discovery.
“I’ve always written songs and stories because I love it, and winning awards for that work is of course rewarding, but it is not my compass,” she said. “Because if it was I’m sure I’d end up very lost.”
She then addressed her fans, highlighting the significance of connecting with people globally through her art.
“When the win isn’t recognition, but making art that reaches the hearts of people I may never meet, it brings me a kind of joy that is deeply meaningful,” the innovator said. “Younger me is so honored to share this moment with you. I’m proud to stand here and tell you how much you mean to me.”
Cyrus concluded her speech with a nod to Hannah Montana: “This really is the life.”
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