Anne Hathaway beaks down in tears after being honoured as a Disney Legend at D23.
The Oscar Award winner took the stage during the Disney Legends Awards ceremony on Sunday, August 16, where she was recognized alongside a celebrated group of entertainers and Disney creative figures.
The Devil wears Pradaactress was visibly emotional as she received a huge round of applause from fans after being honoured as a Disney Legend at the final day of D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, California.
“Thank you so much, David. Thank you,” she said on stage. “You remain one of the smartest, kindest, most extraordinary friends.”
The 43-year-old, who has become closely associated with Disney through films including The Princess Diaries and Alice in Wonderland, struggled to hold back tears as the audience erupted in applause.
Wearing a striking blue gown for the ceremony, she added, “I am humbled and overwhelmed in this room,” as she wiped away tears.
The Idea of You lead also shared an emotional tribute to her friend and The Devil Wears Pradadirector David Frankel, who introduced her alongside Vogue editor Anna Wintour.
“David, you are one of the most extraordinary friends I have ever made through this job. I love you so much. And I couldn’t be more honored to have you here,” she continued. “And thanks for bringing Anna.”
The emotional moment came more than two decades after Hathaway made her Disney debut as Mia Thermopolis in 2001’s The Princess Diaries. Her performance as the awkward teenager who discovers she is heir to the fictional kingdom of Genovia helped make her one of Disney’s most recognizable live-action stars.
The Disney Legend designation is one of the company’s highest honours. It recognizes individuals whose work has made a significant and lasting contribution to Disney’s legacy.
The actress’ emotional appearance also comes at a major moment in her career. In 2026, she returned as Andy Sachs in The Devil Wears Prada 2 and remains attached to the long-awaited Princess Diaries 3.
Interestingly, her Devil Wears Prada co-star Emily Blunt also joined her backstage to cheer her.
2026-08-17 13:59:00
