Iconic Disney Channel Stars of the 2000s: Where Are They Now?

The Disney Channel was a powerhouse of entertainment in the 2000s, introducing a generation of young viewers to stars who would go on to become household names. From sitcoms to musical sensations, these stars shaped our childhoods and influenced pop culture in significant ways. In this article, we take a nostalgic journey through the lives and careers of some of the most iconic Disney Channel stars from that era, exploring where they are now and what they are up to today.

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1. Hilary Duff

Hilary Duff burst onto the scene as Lizzie McGuire in 2001, capturing the hearts of preteens and teens alike. The show followed Lizzie’s adventures navigating school, friendships, and family life. After the show ended in 2004, Hilary took on a diverse range of roles in film and television, including movies like “The Lizzie McGuire Movie” and the TV series “Younger.”

Today, Hilary Duff is not only an actress but also a mother of three and a successful entrepreneur with her fashion line, “Stuff by Hilary Duff.” In 2022, she reprised her role as Lizzie in a revival series, much to the delight of her fans.

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2. Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus became a cultural phenomenon as Hannah Montana, a double life of a regular girl who was secretly a pop star. The show ran from 2006 to 2011, launching Miley into stardom.

Post-Disney, Miley has embraced her individuality, moving from country-pop to rock and hip hop, releasing hits like “Wrecking Ball” and “Midnight Sky.” She has been candid about her struggles with mental health and addiction, using her platform to promote self-acceptance. Recently, she has explored new music styles and made headlines with her bold performances and statements.

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3. Selena Gomez

Debuting as Alex Russo in “Wizards of Waverly Place,” Selena Gomez quickly became a beloved figure on Disney Channel. The show ran from 2007 to 2012 and earned Gomez numerous awards.

After Disney, Selena transitioned into a successful music career with hits like “Come & Get It” and “Good for You.” Additionally, she has made waves in the acting world with roles in series like “13 Reasons Why” and “Only Murders in the Building.” Gomez is also known for her philanthropy, advocacy for mental health, and successful beauty brand, Rare Beauty.

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4. Vanessa Hudgens

Vanessa Hudgens captivated audiences in Disney’s “High School Musical,” which premiered in 2006. The films catapulted her into the limelight, showcasing her singing and acting prowess.

Since her Disney days, Vanessa has ventured into Broadway, starred in films like “The Princess Switch” series on Netflix, and has been part of various musical projects. Praised for her fashion sense, she has also become a prominent figure in the beauty industry and continues to inspire with her confidence.

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5. Zac Efron

Zac Efron became a teen heartthrob through his role as Troy Bolton in “High School Musical.” His charm and singing ability gained him a large fanbase.

After his Disney Channel success, Zac starred in a variety of films, including “The Greatest Showman” and “Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile.” He has taken on more mature roles and has gained acclaim for his performances, showcasing a significant evolution from his early days.

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6. Kristen Stewart

Before she became known for “Twilight,” Kristen Stewart starred in the Disney Channel movie “Catch That Kid.” Although her time with Disney was short-lived, it paved the way for a stellar career.

Kristen has starred in several critically acclaimed films, including “Clouds of Sils Maria” and “Personal Shopper,” earning her numerous award nominations. Today, she is recognized for her versatility as an actress, continuing to make impactful choices in her film roles.

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7. Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato started her Disney journey on “Camp Rock” alongside the Jonas Brothers before landing a lead role in “Sonny with a Chance.” Known for her incredible vocal talent, Demi has released multiple successful albums and singles.

Beyond music, Demi has been open about her struggles with mental health and addiction, using her platform to advocate for mental health awareness. Recently, she has returned to acting and continues to release new music.

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8. Jackson Brundage

Many remember Jackson Brundage for his role as Jamie Scott on “One Tree Hill.” He made a significant impact as a child actor on the series from 2008 to 2012. After his Disney Channel fame, Brundage stepped back from acting to explore new career paths.

Today, he focuses on his education, and while he hasn’t completely left acting behind, he chooses projects more thoughtfully. Jackson aims to find a balance between his passions.

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Conclusion

The Disney Channel stars of the 2000s have come a long way. Many have transitioned successfully into adult careers, while others have taken different paths altogether. Their journeys remind us of the nostalgia and impact of Disney Channel during our formative years. While some have stayed in the entertainment spotlight, others have chosen lives out of the public eye, but their influence on pop culture remains strong. As we continue to follow their journeys, we can appreciate the growth and accomplishments of these beloved stars.

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