In a heartfelt ceremony during the D23 Expo on August 16, 2026, Anne Hathaway was officially named a Disney Legend joining an esteemed group of honorees. The event marked a significant milestone in Hathaway’s illustrious career, which began with her breakout role in The Princess Diaries in 2001.
The actress, known for her versatility and dedication, expressed profound gratitude during her acceptance speech. Surrounded by her family, including her husband Adam Shulman and their two sons, Hathaway reflected on the incredible journey that led her to this moment.
From Princess to Legend: Hathaway’s Disney Journey
Hathaway’s association with Disney spans over two decades, beginning with her debut as Mia Thermopolis in The Princess Diaries. Directed by the late Garry Marshall and produced by Debra Martin Chase and the late Whitney Houston the film became an instant classic. Hathaway’s performance alongside Julie Andrews left a lasting impact on her career.
“How lucky am I that my first studio picture ever starred perhaps the greatest Disney Legend of all time, the incomparable Julie Andrews,” Hathaway remarked. She highlighted the invaluable lessons she learned from Andrews about kindness, patience, and hard work.
A Career of Remarkable Achievements
Hathaway’s career has been marked by numerous accolades and memorable roles. Her performance as Andy Sachs in The Devil Wears Prada and its 2026 sequel, The Devil Wears Prada 2 showcased her range and talent. The sequel grossed over $690 million worldwide, bringing the franchise’s total to over $1 billion.
In 2026 alone, Hathaway starred in five films, including The End of Oak Street which opened to a $47 million debut weekend. Her box office haul for the year surpassed $2 billion underscoring her status as a leading figure in Hollywood.
Tributes and Reflections
The Disney Legends honor was presented by David Frankel the director of The Devil Wears Prada. Frankel shared that the studio initially considered another actress for the role but was convinced by Meryl Streep‘s endorsement of Hathaway.
Anna Wintour editor of Vogue paid tribute to Hathaway via a video message. Wintour praised Hathaway’s work ethic, talent, and kindness, noting that she is an ideal companion for both fashion shows and theater dates.
Hathaway’s speech was filled with gratitude and humility. She acknowledged the support of her family and the opportunities she has had throughout her career. “I’m so lucky that my first booking led to so many opportunities when I was still so young,” she said, reflecting on her early roles and the adventures they brought.
The 2026 Disney Legends class includes other notable figures such as Bob IgerDwayne Johnson the Jonas BrothersLin-Manuel Miranda and Alan Tudyk. Each honoree was recognized for their significant contributions to the Disney legacy.
Hathaway’s induction into the Disney Legends class of 2026 is a testament to her enduring impact on the entertainment industry. Her journey from a young actress in The Princess Diaries to a celebrated Disney Legend highlights her talent, dedication, and the profound influence she has had on audiences worldwide.
