The Walt Disney Company has made the 2024 Disney Legends Awards Ceremony, held during this year's D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, available for streaming on Disney+. This marks the first time the prestigious event is accessible to a global audience via the streaming platform, allowing fans to watch the celebrations from home.
The ceremony, which took place at the conclusion of the D23 weekend, honored 14 new Disney Legends who have significantly contributed to the company's legacy. The 2024 honorees include Colleen Atwood, Angela Bassett, Martha Blanding, James L. Brooks, James Cameron, Jamie Lee Curtis, Miley Cyrus, Steve Ditko, Harrison Ford, Mark Henn, Frank Oz, Kelly Ripa, Joe Rohde, and John Williams.
Hosted by Ryan Seacrest, the event featured special presentations, tribute videos, and surprise guest appearances. Among the highlights were a presentation to Harrison Ford by Disney CEO Bob Iger and an award given to Jamie Lee Curtis by Jodie Foster and Lindsay Lohan. Other memorable moments included Miley Cyrus being honored with a performance by Lainey Wilson and Angela Bassett receiving her award from "Black Panther" director Ryan Coogler.
Joe Rohde, a legendary Disney Imagineer known for his work on Disney's Animal Kingdom and other groundbreaking projects, was among the 14 honorees. During the ceremony, Rohde was celebrated with a special video message from Dr. Jane Goodall and a live performance by the Tam Tam Drummers of Disney's Animal Kingdom, highlighting his significant contributions to Disney's theme parks.
The Disney Legends Awards, now in its 37th year, has recognized a total of 318 individuals since its inception in 1987. This year's honorees join a distinguished group that includes names like Julie Andrews, George Lucas, and Betty White.
Bob Iger, who welcomed attendees to the event, emphasized the significance of the Disney Legends Award, stating, "The Disney Legends Award is the highest honor our company bestows. It's presented as a celebration of talent, a recognition of achievement, and, above all, a sincere expression of our deep gratitude."
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