The Honda Center in Anaheim turned into a gathering spot for nostalgia and celebration as Disney honored its 2026 class of Legends. Among the eleven honorees were Anne Hathaway, Dwayne Johnson, the Jonas Brothers, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, each recognized for shaping the company's storytelling across generations.
Hathaway, who first charmed audiences as Princess Mia Thermopolis in The Princess Diaries, received her award from director David Frankel. Her career, spanning over two decades, has made her one of Hollywood's most beloved actresses, and her Disney roots run deep. The audience cheered as she accepted the honor, a reminder of how her early role became a touchstone for many young viewers.
Dwayne Johnson, known to millions as The Rock, was celebrated for his voice work as Maui in Moana. In his acceptance, he spoke about kindness and the importance of creating moments of family joy, echoing the film's themes of adventure and connection. His tribute highlighted how a character can resonate beyond the screen, becoming part of family traditions.
The Jonas Brothers—Kevin, Joe, and Nick—were also inducted, a nod to their journey from Disney Channel stars to global pop sensations. They reflected on their early days on the network and the fans who grew up alongside them. Their music, from "S.O.S." to "Sucker," has soundtracked countless lives, and their Disney legacy remains strong.
Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creative force behind Hamilton and Encanto, moved the crowd with a heartfelt rendition of "Part of Your World" from The Little Mermaid. His standing ovation was a testament to his impact, not just on Broadway but on Disney's modern musical storytelling. Miranda's work, including the Oscar-winning "Dos Oruguitas," has brought Latino stories to the forefront, a point not lost on the diverse audience.
The ceremony also honored Bob Iger, Disney's former CEO, who was praised by peers as one of the most influential business leaders of our time. Under his leadership, Disney acquired Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and 21st Century Fox, reshaping the entertainment landscape. His vision for streaming with Disney+ has changed how families consume content, and his legacy is now part of Disney's official history.
This year's Legends class joins an elite group of over 300 personalities honored since 1987. The award, a bronze sculpture, symbolizes the lasting imprint these individuals have left on the company. For Latino audiences, the inclusion of Miranda and the Jonas Brothers—who have collaborated with Latin artists—reflects a broader cultural crossover that continues to grow.
As fans at D23 enjoyed previews of upcoming projects, the evening underscored how Disney's magic is built on the stories and characters that these legends have brought to life. From Moana's Pacific Islander roots to Encanto's Colombian setting, Disney has increasingly embraced global narratives, and this class of honorees represents that shift.
The event also served as a reminder of the power of shared experiences. Whether it's a family watching The Princess Diaries on a Sunday afternoon or a group of friends singing along to a Jonas Brothers hit, these legends have created moments that transcend borders. For the Latino community, whose storytelling traditions are rich and varied, seeing figures like Miranda celebrated is particularly meaningful.
In a world where entertainment is often fragmented, the Disney Legends Awards bring people together to honor the artists who have shaped our collective imagination. This year's ceremony was no exception, leaving attendees and viewers alike with a sense of gratitude for the stories that have defined generations.
For more on how Latino artists are influencing global entertainment, check out our coverage of Hard Summer 2026 and the Premios HEAT in Puerto Vallarta.
