Miley Cyrus Reveals Which “Hannah Montana” Love Interest She Would’ve Actually Dated

Miley Cyrus is reflecting on the character that made her a household name, 20 years after Hannah Montana first aired on Disney Channel. In an interview with Variety, she shared memories of the show, the fans, and even revealed who she would have dated from her character’s on-screen romances.

The pop star recently returned to the spotlight for the Hannah Montana anniversary special airing on Disney+ on March 24. Fans who have grown up with the show lined up at Sunset Gower Studios in Hollywood to witness Cyrus perform her old hits, including “This Is the Life” and “The Climb.” The reunion brought back the magic of the early Disney era, complete with recreated sets and archival costumes from the show.

“I didn’t want to do this modern approach to Hannah,” Cyrus told Variety. “I wanted to keep it preserved. But also, now Hannah wears Gucci. She’s elevated. She’s gotta look a little less Galleria.”

While the special was about celebrating the music and legacy of the show, Cyrus also reflected on the romances her character experienced on screen. She admitted that if it were real life, she would have had her pick. “Jesse is probably more my real choice, but I think Jake made more sense for Hannah.,” she said, referring to the character played by Cody Linley. Fans may remember Jesse as the loyal, guitar-playing boyfriend who had a sweet connection with Miley Stewart.

Cyrus also touched on the pressures of growing up in the public eye and how her relationships on the show mirrored her own journey. “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,” she explained.

Her dad, Billy Ray Cyrus, played an important role both on and off screen, starring as Miley Stewart’s father in 99 episodes. Miley credits him with helping her navigate the intense spotlight of child stardom. “My dad was on set every single day, so there was nothing that could happen that he wouldn’t know about,” she said.

Looking back, Cyrus says she never intended to overshadow or “kill” Hannah Montana. “I wasn’t trying to kill Hannah off. I was just progressing,” she explained. She sees the anniversary special as a way to merge her identity with her iconic character. “This special is my reclaiming of merging Hannah and Miley together.”

Cyrus also shared that sobriety and therapy have helped her reconnect with her younger self and perform without anxiety. She performed for the special without any nerves, something she struggled with during her teen years. “Now, through a sober lens, I can have compassion and understanding for myself,” she said.

The anniversary special isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a celebration of the character, the fans, and the woman Cyrus has become. She hopes it inspires viewers to embrace every part of themselves. “I can actually have it all,” she says, reflecting on her personal growth and the ability to balance her past, present, and future.

Fans can see Cyrus bring Hannah Montana back to life on Disney+ on March 24, and hear her reflections on the show’s love stories, including the one she would have chosen herself.

What do you think about Miley’s pick for Hannah’s love interest? Share your thoughts in the comments.