Anaheim, CA (The Hollywood Times) 8/18/26 – D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event wrapped its 2026 celebration in Anaheim with one of the weekend’s most anticipated traditions: the induction of a new class of Disney Legends.
The ceremony brought together performers, creators, executives and longtime members of the Disney family for an evening that was as much about the fans as it was about the honorees. Throughout the night, the audience enthusiastically celebrated the people whose work has helped shape Disney across film, television, music, Broadway and animation.
Among the evening’s biggest crowd-pleasers were the Jonas Brothers, whose long relationship with Disney helped launch them into global stardom. Now officially Disney Legends, the brothers brought plenty of humor and emotion to the stage while reflecting on just how extraordinary their journey has been.
The ceremony also honored Anne Hathaway, whose connection to Disney includes her beloved role as Mia Thermopolis in The Princess Diaries films. Hathaway appeared genuinely moved by the recognition, describing the moment as difficult to fully process.
Broadway and Disney fans also celebrated Susan Egan, the original Belle in Broadway’s Beauty and the Beast. Egan’s Disney history extends well beyond the stage, including voice work and appearances in Disney television productions. Her induction recognized a career deeply connected to the company and to generations of fans.
The evening additionally paid tribute to artists and creative professionals whose names may not always be as instantly recognizable to audiences but whose work has been essential to creating the Disney magic. Animation, production and behind-the-scenes storytelling were all represented, reminding fans that Disney’s most memorable worlds are created by enormous teams of talented people.
Longtime Disney contributors were recognized for decades of service as well. One honoree reflected on nearly half a century with the company with refreshing humility, noting that after the celebration he would simply wake up the next morning, make coffee and continue doing the work he loves.
That spirit captured much of what made the Disney Legends ceremony meaningful. While the award celebrates extraordinary careers, many of the honorees spoke less about personal accomplishments and more about the collaborators, audiences and opportunities that made their careers possible.
The night also included a salute to Disney leadership, with entertainment icons appearing to recognize the lasting impact that company leaders have had on the organization and its creative legacy.
More than anything, the 2026 Disney Legends celebration demonstrated why D23 continues to connect so strongly with its audience. Disney fans do not simply follow characters, movies or attractions. They form lasting emotional connections with the performers and creative minds behind them.
As D23 came to a close in Anaheim, the newest Disney Legends joined a distinguished group whose collective work spans generations.
It was a fitting finale to a weekend built around Disney history, nostalgia and what comes next, honoring the people who created the magic while celebrating the fans who continue to keep it alive.
