AceShowbiz - Miley Cyrus was celebrated with the prestigious Innovator Award during the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards, which took place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California, on March 26, 2026.

The award was presented by Lainey Wilson, who has a special connection to Cyrus’s legacy, having once performed as a Hannah Montana impersonator. Wilson expressed deep admiration for Miley Cyrus, calling her "one of my biggest inspirations" and praising her fearless evolution in the music industry.

Wilson highlighted how Cyrus has continually transformed her image and artistry, breaking free from the constraints others tried to impose on her. “Miley Cyrus is what happens when fearlessness meets evolution,” Wilson remarked during the ceremony.

As Cyrus approached the stage to deliver her acceptance speech, the audience erupted into chants of her name, showing overwhelming support and enthusiasm. Playfully referencing the ceremony’s host Ludacris, she joked, “They’re gonna ‘Luda’ me,” acknowledging the speech-cutoff sound used during the show and assuring that her remarks would not be limited to 45 seconds.

During her speech, Cyrus acknowledged the significance of the week, also marking the 20th anniversary of Hannah Montana. She described the celebration as “a dream come true” and shared how the character inspired her own career.

“Hannah Montana inspired me so much in my own career,” Cyrus said. “I fell in love with the idea that you can create a persona that gives you the confidence and the courage to perform authentically.”

Cyrus then reflected on what innovation means to her, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the personal journey of self-discovery. “I’ve always written songs and stories because I love it, and winning awards for that work is of course rewarding, but it is not my compass,” she explained. “Because if it was I’m sure I’d end up very lost.”

She also addressed her fans directly, describing the profound joy she finds in connecting with people worldwide through her art. “When the win isn’t recognition, but making art that reaches the hearts of people I may never meet, it brings me a kind of joy that is deeply meaningful,” said the award recipient.

With heartfelt emotion, Cyrus expressed how honored her younger self would be to witness this moment. “I’m proud to stand here and tell you how much you mean to me,” she continued.

She concluded her acceptance by returning to the iconic phrase linked to her early career, declaring, “This really is the life,” echoing the title and spirit of Hannah Montana.

The 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards ceremony, broadcast live on FOX, featured numerous notable moments, with Miley Cyrus’s acceptance of the Innovator Award standing out as a highlight of the evening.

As fans and industry professionals continue to celebrate her achievements, Cyrus remains a symbol of artistic courage and reinvention, honored not only for her music but for her fearless creativity and connection with audiences worldwide.