Miley Cyrus Reflects on the Impact of Fame and Fame’s Backlash

Miley Cyrus recently shared her reflections on her past, particularly the impact of her provocative era in 2013 around the release of her album “Bangerz.” In an episode of the “Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky” podcast, she expressed that her transition from beloved child star to a more risqué persona led to significant backlash and embarrassment, not just for herself but for her family as well.

Cyrus recounted how the scrutiny she faced during this time was intense, stating that her siblings were so humiliated by her actions that they didn’t want to attend school. This situation weighed heavily on her, contributing to feelings of guilt over the challenges her fame created for her family, especially her father, country singer Billy Ray Cyrus. She admitted to struggling to face him during that period, feeling a deep sense of embarrassment about her choices.

The backlash worsened after her controversial performance at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards. She described the reaction as overwhelming, recalling the cruel memes that circulated online, which affected her confidence so profoundly that she avoided wearing shorts or skirts for years. Cyrus’s insecurities stemming from this experience have led her to favor modest swimwear, revealing how the incident has had a long-lasting impact on her self-image.

This candidness about her past reflects a broader narrative within the entertainment industry, where artists like Cyrus navigate public scrutiny and personal growth. Similar to Katy Perry’s experiences with online criticism and resilience in the face of public opinion, Cyrus’s story highlights the complex relationship artists have with their evolving identities and the expectations placed upon them by society.

Despite the challenges, Miley Cyrus’s journey emphasizes the importance of embracing one’s individuality and the lessons learned from navigating fame. Her reflections could inspire others to recognize the value of self-acceptance and to confront the challenges that come with personal growth in the public eye.