Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Miley Cyrus

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Miley Cyrus.

Miley Cyrus is an American singer, songwriter, and actress recognized for her significant influence in popular music and her constant reinvention of her artistry and image. She gained prominence as a child actress before transitioning into a successful adult entertainment career. Cyrus rose to teen idol status through her role as Miley Stewart in the Disney Channel's 'Hannah Montana' (2006-2011), which led to a lucrative franchise and two number-one soundtracks on the Billboard 200.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

April 2008: Leak of Personal Photos and Vanity Fair Controversy

In April 2008, some photos of Miley Cyrus in her underwear and swimsuit were leaked online. Furthermore, controversy arose over a photo shoot with Annie Leibovitz for Vanity Fair. Although it appeared that Cyrus was bare-breasted, The New York Times clarified that she was wrapped in a bed sheet and was not topless.

December 2010: Salvia Smoking Video Controversy

In December 2010, Miley Cyrus faced controversy after a video surfaced online showing her, then eighteen years old, smoking salvia with a bong.

2010: Film Role and Album Release

In 2010, Miley Cyrus starred in the film The Last Song, based on the Nicholas Sparks novel, which was a box office hit. She also released her third studio album, Can't Be Tamed, featuring a more dance-oriented sound, which stirred controversy.

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March 5, 2011: Saturday Night Live Hosting

On March 5, 2011, Miley Cyrus hosted an episode of Saturday Night Live where she made fun of her recent controversies.

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February 2012: Departure from Hotel Transylvania

In February 2012, Miley Cyrus was dropped from the animated film Hotel Transylvania and replaced by Selena Gomez. The initial reason cited was Cyrus wanting to work on her music, but it was later revealed to be due to a controversial incident involving a birthday cake for her then-boyfriend Liam Hemsworth.

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2013: Accepts Best Video Award at the 2013 MTV Europe Music Awards

In 2013 Miley Cyrus told Rolling Stone that cannabis was "the best drug on earth" and called it, along with MDMA, a "happy drug". While accepting the Best Video Award at the 2013 MTV Europe Music Awards, Cyrus appeared to smoke a joint onstage; this was removed from the delayed broadcast of the show in the United States.

2013: Release of "We Can't Stop", VMA Performance with Robin Thicke, and Release of "Wrecking Ball"

In 2013, Miley Cyrus released "We Can't Stop", which became a worldwide commercial success, and performed with Robin Thicke at the MTV Video Music Awards, resulting in widespread media attention and public scrutiny. She also released "Wrecking Ball", which became her first to top the Hot 100 in the US.

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