Rabat – Disney celebrated some of the biggest names to shape its legacy during D23 2026 in Anaheim, California, officially welcoming 11 new honorees into the company’s prestigious Disney Legends program.
This year’s class spans Hollywood, music, animation, sports entertainment and corporate leadership, bringing together Anne Hathaway, Bob Iger, Dwayne Johnson, the Jonas Brothers and Lin-Manuel Miranda, alongside Chris Berman, Jerry Bruckheimer, Susan Egan, Eric Goldberg, Kim Irvine and Alan Tudyk.
Anne Hathaway
For Anne Hathaway, the honor marks another milestone in a career that has been closely linked to Disney for more than two decades.
Hathaway first became part of the Disney family in 2001, when she starred as Mia Thermopolis in “The Princess Diaries.”
She returned as the beloved royal in “The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement” in 2004.
Her Disney credits later expanded to include the White Queen in “Alice in Wonderland” and “Alice Through the Looking Glass.”
Director David Frankel, who worked with Hathaway on “The Devil Wears Prada” and its upcoming sequel, presented her with the honor, celebrating her dedication to her craft.
In her acceptance speech, Hathaway reflected on the privilege of being able to build a life around work she loves while sharing her journey with her husband and children.
She also highlighted the importance of family and the happiness she finds away from the spotlight.
Bob Iger
Former Disney CEO Bob Iger was also named a Disney Legend, with current Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro presenting the honor.
D’Amaro described Iger as one of the most influential business leaders of the modern era.
The celebration brought together several high-profile figures, including Robert Downey Jr., Diane Sawyer, Harrison Ford, Ellen Pompeo and Al Michaels.
In his speech, Iger spoke about the responsibility of corporate leaders to help make the world a better place.
He also emphasized the importance of giving creative talent the support and freedom needed to move a company forward.
During his time at the helm of Disney, Iger oversaw some of the company’s biggest acquisitions, including Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm and 21st Century Fox, as well as the launch of Disney+.
Dwayne Johnson
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson was another major addition to the Disney Legends lineup.
His “Jungle Cruise” co-star Emily Blunt presented him with the honor, highlighting the thoughtful and warm personality she discovered behind his larger-than-life public image.
Johnson reflected on Disney’s ability to create memorable experiences for audiences and families around the world.
He also recalled taking his daughter Simone to Disneyland when he was in his 20s and watching a Disney princess ask her to close her eyes and make a wish.
During the ceremony, Johnson invited the audience to sing “Happy Birthday” to Simone before ending his speech with a message that has become closely associated with his outlook, “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.”
The Jonas Brothers
Kevin, Joe, and Nick Jonas were honored together as Disney Legends, recognizing their long-standing connection to Disney Channel and the generation of fans who grew up with them.
Fellow former Disney Channel star Vanessa Hudgens presented the award.
The brothers looked back on their early Disney memories, with Joe Jonas revealing that his first word was reportedly “Gaston,” inspired by his repeated viewings of “Beauty and the Beast.”
Nick also recalled playing Chip in the Broadway production of the movie.
Nick thanked the fans who allowed the Jonas Brothers to become part of their childhoods and grow alongside them over the years.
Lin-Manuel Miranda
Award-winning creator Lin-Manuel Miranda also joined the Disney Legends.
Moana star Auliʻi Cravalho presented him with the honor, celebrating his influence as a songwriter and storyteller whose work has resonated with a generation.
His tribute featured a special musical performance involving Cravalho, Jordan Fisher, and other performers, revisiting songs connected to Disney’s cinematic legacy.
Miranda later performed a reimagined version of “Part of Your World” from “The Little Mermaid,” reflecting on his journey with Disney and thanking audiences for their continued support.
Six more names join the 2026 class
Rounding out the 2026 class are Chris Berman, Jerry Bruckheimer, Susan Egan, Eric Goldberg, Kim Irvine, and Alan Tudyk.
Together, this year’s honorees represent the wide range of talent behind Disney’s global entertainment empire, from acting and filmmaking to animation, music, theme parks, and sports broadcasting.
The Disney Legends program
The Disney Legends program was established in 1987, with actor Fred MacMurray becoming its first recipient.
Previous classes have included major names such as Julie Andrews, James Cameron, George Lucas and Robin Williams.
The 2024 class featured Miley Cyrus, Kelly Ripa, Angela Bassett, Jamie Lee Curtis and Harrison Ford.
The latest induction was part of D23 2026, Disney’s flagship fan event, which brings together audiences for celebrations of the company’s history alongside announcements and showcases of upcoming films, series, attractions and entertainment projects.
