Miley Cyrus was 12 years old when Cyrus originally auditioned for Disney for the lead role of Miley Stewart/Hannah Montana, as well as the show's "best friend" roles, but Disney Channel executives judged Cyrus to be too small. However, Miley Cyrus was persistent in her desire to be part of Hannah Montana, so Disney called her back for further auditions. According to Disney Channel Executive Vice President Gary Marsh, she was chosen for the show because of her energetic and lively performance and was seen as a person who "loves every minute of life," with the "everyday relatability of Hilary Duff and the stage presence of Shania Twain."
Miley Cyrus spent several years trying to get rid of her Southern accent, but in the end Disney wanted Cyrus to revive it. Later in an unusual twist, she had to audition her own father, Billy Ray Cyrus, to see if he would fit the role as Hannah's dad. Miley currently stars in Hannah Montana as the lead character Miley Stewart, whose alter ego is the pop music sensation Hannah Montana.
Miley Cyrus also performs in character as Hannah Montana for albums and concerts. Miley also appeared in the Disney Channel Hannah Montana promotion, "Hannah Montana's Backstage Secrets," in which she portrays Hannah Montana in a fictional interview set in the show's canon.