Miley Cyrus shares how child stardom shaped her path to self-discovery

Miley Cyrus has opened up about the challenges of growing up in the spotlight, describing her early stardom as “awkward.”

The 33-year-old pop star rose to fame as Hannah Montana on Disney Channel from 2006 to 2011, navigating the pressures of public scrutiny while transitioning from childhood to adulthood. 

Speaking with Variety, Cyrus reflected, “Being recognisable 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.”

After leaving Hannah Montana, Miley faced personal struggles, including experiences with drugs and alcohol, as she sought to redefine her public image. 

She credits the COVID-19 pandemic with helping her find sobriety, a shift that she says has been transformative. 

“I was so used to living at a high, and I don’t think I ever learned how to come down from that. Now, through a sober lens, I can have compassion and understanding for myself,” she said.

Cyrus also addressed her evolving approach to life and spirituality, explaining that she often embraces flexibility rather than rigid certainty. 

“I think maybe is more of a powerful word than we give it credit for. Because when you block something with a yes or a no, then you don’t invite in something that could be a maybe,” she told Vogue.

Away from the stage and cameras, Miley finds joy in domestic routines, jokingly dubbing herself the “Queen of Pristine.” 

"I am joyful when I’m organising and cleaning—it never feels like a task to me. Everything I do in my life is a little bit intense, but it has to be holistic. That’s why my eras—they’re not a costume, they’re actually like a metamorphosis or a true evolution for me personally, she explained.

Cyrus’ reflections highlight how childhood fame shaped her resilience, self-awareness, and ongoing personal growth—both on and off the stage.