Who is Miley Cyrus?
Miley Cyrus is more than just a pop star; she’s a cultural chameleon, fearless performer, and one of the most talked-about entertainers of the 21st century. From Disney Channel sweetheart to bold, genre-defying artist, Miley has lived a life in the spotlight, constantly evolving and reinventing herself. As of 2025, she continues to make headlines for her music, activism, and unapologetic authenticity.
Early Life & Background
Miley Ray Cyrus was born Destiny Hope Cyrus on November 23, 1992, in Franklin, Tennessee, to country singer Billy Ray Cyrus and producer Tish Cyrus. Her nickname “Smiley” became “Miley” over time. She grew up surrounded by music and showbiz, with multiple siblings also entering the entertainment industry. At age 8, Miley knew she wanted to be on screen. Her breakout came in 2006 when she landed the lead role in Disney’s Hannah Montana, where she played a teen living a double life as a pop star.
Rise to Fame: The Hannah Montana Era
Hannah Montana turned Miley into a global sensation. With chart-topping soundtracks, sold-out tours, and millions of fans worldwide, she became the ultimate teen idol. The show ran from 2006 to 2011, and Miley released several successful albums under Disney’s Hollywood Records label, including Meet Miley Cyrus and Breakout. However, behind the scenes, Miley yearned to shed her child-star image and embrace her own voice and identity.
Miley’s post-Disney career has been a rollercoaster of reinvention. In 2013, she made global headlines with her Bangerz era, marked by her viral VMA performance and edgy singles like “Wrecking Ball” and “We Can’t Stop.” The album earned her critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination.
Over the years, Miley has explored multiple genres:
-
Pop-Rock: Plastic Hearts (2020) embraced glam rock and featured collaborations with Joan Jett and Billy Idol.
-
Country/Roots: She paid tribute to her Nashville roots through unplugged performances and covers of Dolly Parton.
-
Psychedelic Pop: Her 2023 project Endless Summer Vacation blended introspective lyrics with dreamy production, showcasing her growth as a songwriter.
In 2024, she was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and continues to influence a new generation of artists.
Net Worth & Business Ventures
According to TheStreet in 2025, Miley Cyrus’s net worth is estimated at over $160 million, thanks to:
-
Music Sales & Touring: Multiple platinum albums and world tours
-
Acting: Films like The Last Song, LOL, and voice roles in Bolt
-
Endorsements: Gucci, Converse, MAC Viva Glam (donating millions to HIV/AIDS causes)
-
Her company, Smiley Miley Inc., manages her brand, production, and fashion ventures
She also founded the Happy Hippie Foundation, a nonprofit focused on youth homelessness, LGBTQ+ rights, and mental health.
Personal Life
Miley has always been candid about her life. She married actor Liam Hemsworth in 2018, though the couple divorced in 2019. Since then, she’s embraced singlehood and fluidity in her sexuality, often identifying as pansexual. Miley Cyrus is currently in a low-key, private relationship with drummer Maxx Morando, whom she began dating in 2021 after being set up on a blind date.
She’s become a vocal advocate for mental health, gender expression, and animal rights. Her openness and activism have made her a beloved figure not just in entertainment but in global pop culture.
Untold & Fun Facts About Miley Cyrus
-
Her godmother is Dolly Parton, who also played her aunt on Hannah Montana
-
She once auditioned for Spy Kids 2 but didn’t get the role
-
Miley changed her legal name from Destiny Hope to Miley Ray Cyrus in 2008
-
She rescued over 30 animals during the California wildfires in 2018