Anne Hathaway has celebrated a major achievement in her Hollywood career. She was officially named a Disney Legend at the 2026 D23 ceremony in Anaheim, California, on August 16.
The actor became emotional while reflecting on the career journey that began with her breakthrough role as Mia Thermopolis in The Princess Diaries. Furthermore, Hathaway credited her family for encouraging her passion for acting, storytelling and imagination.
In her acceptance speech, she described herself as incredibly fortunate and reflected on the people who helped shape her career.
Her relationship with Disney began with The Princess Diaries in 2001. Hathaway was just 17 when she played Mia alongside Julie Andrews, who portrayed Queen Clarisse Renaldi. She also remembered the late director Garry Marshall and producer Whitney Houston, expressing gratitude for the opportunities they gave her.
Hathaway’s Disney-related legacy also includes The Devil Wears Prada, where she played Andy Sachs alongside Meryl Streep and Emily Blunt. The 2006 movie became one of her most iconic films and has remained popular with audiences over the years.
In 2026, Hathaway returned as Andy Sachs in The Devil Wears Prada 2, reuniting with Streep, Blunt and Stanley Tucci. The sequel has further strengthened the franchise’s global success.
She also appeared at D23 to promote The Princess Diaries 3, with Hathaway set to return as Mia. Adele Lim is directing the upcoming sequel.
The 2026 Disney Legends class also includes several other prominent names from entertainment. These stars are Bob Iger, Dwayne Johnson, the Jonas Brothers, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Alan Tudyk, Jerry Bruckheimer and Susan Egan.
The honour comes during an especially busy year for Hathaway. Her 2026 projects include Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, Mother Mary, The End of Oak Street and The Devil Wears Prada 2.
