Drew Roy on Miley Cyrus' Comments: 'Lived the Best of Both Worlds'

Drew Roy, known for his role as Jesse in Hannah Montana, has responded to comments made by Miley Cyrus regarding his absence from the show's 20th-anniversary special. Cyrus had playfully questioned why Roy hadn't been in touch, contrasting him with co-star Cody Linley. Roy, in an Instagram video posted on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to have been part of the popular Disney Channel series, which aired from 2006 to 2011.

Roy reflected on his journey, stating he felt he had "lived the best of both worlds" by experiencing his time in Los Angeles and then relocating. He and his wife, Renee Gardner, chose to move away from the city to provide their two sons with a more stable upbringing, prioritizing family time and a normal childhood near relatives. Gardner also clarified on social media that their decision was not related to professional opportunities but a lifestyle choice.

Despite the perceived slight, Roy conveyed that he watched the Disney+ special with his wife and enjoyed reminiscing about behind-the-scenes stories. He acknowledged the enduring popularity of Hannah Montana, noting that his children's friends are still fans. Roy, who now works as an airline pilot, also shared his admiration for Cyrus's continued career success since their time on the show.