Anne Hathaway, Jonas Brothers, and More Stars to Be Named "Disney Legends": What the Title Means and How to Watch the Ceremony

Disney is set to bestow its highest honor, the "Disney Legends" award, upon 13 new recipients this Sunday, August 16th, at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. This prestigious recognition celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to the Walt Disney Company's legacy. The ceremony is a highlight of D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, the company's official fan gathering.

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This is one of the greatest distinctions the company bestows.

The class of 2026 includes a diverse group of talents, spanning actors, musicians, executives, and creatives. Among the honorees are Anne Hathaway, known for her roles in "The Princess Diaries" and "Alice in Wonderland"; the Jonas Brothers, who rose to fame through Disney Channel and a successful music career; Dwayne Johnson, recognized for his film work and voice acting in "Moana"; and Lin-Manuel Miranda, celebrated for his contributions to "Moana" and "Encanto." Other notable recipients include producer Jerry Bruckheimer, former CEO Bob Iger, and Imagineering executive Kim Irvine.

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The title of Disney Legend was created in 1987 and is the highest recognition that The Walt Disney Company presents.

Established in 1987, the Disney Legends award acknowledges those who have left a lasting impact on the company's identity through its films, series, music, theme parks, and other entertainment ventures. Past recipients include iconic figures such as Julie Andrews, Robin Williams, and Robert Downey Jr. The selection process is broad, encompassing not only performers but also directors, animators, and executives who have shaped Disney's history.

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The ceremony will be broadcast live from the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, as part of the final day of D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.

Fans eager to witness the ceremony can stream it globally on Disney+. While the event begins at 1:30 PM California time (5:30 PM Argentina time), the on-demand stream will be available on Disney+ starting at 10 PM Argentina time. This presentation marks one of the final major events of D23 2026, which runs from August 14th to 16th, bringing together the Disney community for a celebration of its enduring magic and legacy.

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Each will be recognized for a different category, which can range from acting and music to animation, production, television, leadership, or Imagineering.