After a surprising question at a recent premiere, Austin Butler — now known for Oscar-worthy performances — addressed the possibility of returning to Hannah Montana for its upcoming 20-year celebration. The response? He was caught off guard — but didn’t rule it out.
Why the buzz around an Austin Butler Hannah Montana reunion
Talk of a reunion started after rumors surfaced that the show’s alumni might reunite for a special 20-year “Hannahversary.” Fans and media speculated: could former guest actors such as Butler return for the milestone?
At the premiere event, Butler seemed genuinely surprised when asked about rejoining the series. “Is that a thing? Wow, wow. 20 years? That’s crazy,” he said. He admitted he hadn’t considered returning before being asked, but called his time on the show “great” and said the cast “had a lot of fun.” Still, he stopped short of committing.
Austin Butler’s roots on Hannah Montana
Butler’s connection to Hannah Montana dates back to 2006–2007. He first appeared in a minor, uncredited role as a character named Toby in season one.
He returned in season two as Derek Hanson — the nervous cousin of a character’s crush — in the episode “My Best Friend’s Boyfriend.” That remains his most substantial appearance on the Disney-Channel hit.
Although it was just a brief chapter in his early career, Butler has referred to those days with fond memories.
Where Austin Butler is now — and what that means for a return
Today, Butler is far removed from his Disney origins. He’s earned acclaim for serious roles in films such as Elvis and Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood, proving he’s built a career well beyond teen sitcoms.
Recently, at the premiere of his new project, reporters asked whether he’d be open to revisiting Hannah Montana. While he didn’t say yes, he didn’t dismiss the idea either.
Given his rising profile and busy schedule, a full-fledged return might be tricky. Still, his enthusiastic tone when recalling his Disney days suggests he isn’t shutting the door on a possible reunion.
Why a revival would matter — and what’s still unknown
- Nostalgia factor: For many fans, a 20-year celebration carries emotional weight. A return — even a cameo — from former guest stars like Butler could add authenticity.
- Past successful revivals: Other early-2000s teen series have returned or rebooted in recent years. That precedent adds fuel to hope.
- Uncertainty remains: Details about what shape any “Hannahversary” event might take — a reunion special, a cameo shoot, or just a throwback display — remain unconfirmed. As of now, nothing is official.
While no commitment has been made, Butler’s openness leaves fans room to hope.
If you’ve got thoughts about a possible reunion or what you’d like to see from it, share below — stay tuned for any official updates.