Miley Cyrus has recently opened up about the "upsetting" controversy that surrounded her iconic 2008 cover for Vanity Fair, where she posed wrapped in a white sheet. The cover stirred significant debate and became a pivotal moment in her early career. In her latest TikTok series, "Used To Be Young," she revisits this moment and shares insights about the photoshoot that was met with criticism back in the day.
In this series, released to celebrate her latest single, "Used To Be Young", the 30-year-old singer reflects on her experiences and how they shaped her as an artist. She emphasizes that while the public widely knows about the controversy, the behind-the-scenes story is often overlooked. This makes her reflections even more poignant, as they reveal the complexities of navigating fame at such a young age.
During the episode, she reminisces about the shoot, which featured not only her but also her father, Billy Ray Cyrus. Captured by renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz, the images conveyed a different narrative compared to her established public persona as a "bubblegum pop star." Cyrus explains, “This image of me is a complete opposite of the bubble gum pop star that I had been known for being, and that’s what was so upsetting,” highlighting the tension between her personal identity and public perception.
Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Miley Cyrus |
| Date of Birth | November 23, 1992 |
| Occupation | Singer, songwriter, and actress |
| Notable Works | Hannah Montana, Wrecking Ball, Used To Be Young |
| Genres | Pop, country pop, hip hop |
Table of Contents
- Miley Cyrus and the Vanity Fair Controversy
- Behind the Scenes of the 2008 Photoshoot
- Miley's Reflections on Fame and Identity
- The Impact of Criticism on Miley's Career
Miley Cyrus and the Vanity Fair Controversy
The 2008 cover of Vanity Fair featuring Miley Cyrus was a defining moment in her career, drawing both acclaim and intense criticism. At just 15 years old, she faced backlash for the artistic decision to pose in a sheet, which many perceived as inappropriate for her age. In her recent discussions, she acknowledges the discomfort and confusion that the image created for her as a young artist trying to establish her identity.
For Miley, the controversy was not just about the image itself, but also about the way it was framed by the media. She expressed, “Everybody knows the controversy of the photo, but they don’t really know the behind-the-scenes, which is always much more meaningful.” This statement resonates with many young stars who often find themselves in the spotlight, grappling with how they are perceived versus who they are.
Behind the Scenes of the 2008 Photoshoot
The photoshoot was not just a career milestone for Miley; it was also a family affair. She shared that her younger sister, Noah, played a significant role during the shoot, sitting on Annie Leibovitz's lap and helping to take pictures. This personal touch adds an emotional layer to the photographs, contrasting with the public's perception of the images as purely provocative.
Miley also revealed that it was during this shoot that she first wore red lipstick, a decision made by her makeup artist, Pati Dubroff. This choice was intended to help separate her emerging adult identity from her previous role as Hannah Montana. She noted, “Pati Dubroff thought that would be another element that would divide me from Hannah Montana,” showcasing how even small decisions in her appearance were laden with significance.
Miley's Reflections on Fame and Identity
In her TikTok series, Miley continues to explore the complexities of growing up in the public eye. She reflects on the guilt and shame she felt about the controversy surrounding her Vanity Fair cover, stating, “I carried some guilt and shame around myself for years because of how much controversy and upset I really caused.” Her candidness reveals the internal struggles that many young stars face as they navigate fame and the expectations of their fans.
As she matured, Miley began to reassess her experiences. She acknowledged, “Now that I’m an adult, I realize how harshly I was judged,” emphasizing her growth and understanding of the challenges faced by young artists. This shift in perspective is crucial, as it allows her to reclaim her narrative and celebrate her journey rather than dwell on past criticisms.
The Impact of Criticism on Miley's Career
The backlash from her Vanity Fair cover was just one of many challenges Miley faced throughout her career. In a recent interview, she expressed how the scrutiny she endured early on shaped her understanding of herself as an artist. “I would never harshly judge a child,” she said, reflecting on the judgment she received as a young star.
Despite the negativity, Miley's resilience and ability to rise above the criticism have become a hallmark of her career. She has transformed challenges into opportunities for growth, ultimately evolving into a more empowered artist. Her journey serves as a reminder that the path to self-acceptance and authenticity can be fraught with obstacles, but it is also filled with valuable lessons.
