Two decades after Hannah Montana first premiered, the show’s impact continues to resonate with fans who grew up watching Miley Stewart balance life as an ordinary teenager and global pop sensation. 

Among the series’ most memorable characters was Jake Ryan, the charming yet egotistical teen heartthrob played by Texas native Cody Linley. For many viewers, Jake was their first television crush — complicated, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt beneath the celebrity swagger.

Since his Disney Channel days, Linley has built a career that spans family comedies, dramas, cult classics, and reality television, from Cheaper by the Dozen and My Dog Skip to Dancing with the Stars and Sharknado. Along the way, he’s also found a passion for teaching acting, writing, and developing projects of his own.

In this conversation, Linley reflects on revisiting the Hannah Montana legacy, the role that still follows him around the world, the lessons he’s learned growing up in Hollywood, and why art continues to be at the center of everything he does.

Revisiting the Hannah Montana Legacy

Returning to celebrate 20 years of Hannah Montana felt deeply meaningful for Linley, especially reconnecting with castmates he hadn’t seen in years.

“It’s an honor, and it was really fun to celebrate and remember the times we had. Honestly, I was mostly looking forward to giving Miley a hug. I’ve known her for so long and hadn’t seen her in over 15 years. It was kind of like a high school reunion, except we actually worked together and created something that ended up being iconic, memorable, and impactful on a global scale.

“It’s just nice to celebrate together and reflect on the experience of making such a fun show. It was also wonderful to hear about the lasting impact it still has on people today.”

The Lasting Appeal of Jake Ryan

Even now, Linley says there are pieces of Jake Ryan that still feel very familiar to him — especially the character’s confidence and flair for drama.

“His oversized ego; it’s pretty funny to think about how full of himself he was, yet still sweet underneath. I’m not going to lie, Jake Ryan was kind of a perfect fit for me: an actor with an oversized ego who goes to public school but is secretly romantic and a sweetheart deep down. I mean, I didn’t really have to act that much.

“Sure, multi-cam comedy has a specific rhythm and musicality to it, and having an acting background allowed me to relax into the role, but every role I play is a part of me. With Jake, it was really just about allowing myself to peacock a little more than usual. Such a fun role to play.”

Understanding the Show’s Cultural Impact

At the height of Hannah Montana’s popularity, Linley knew the series was successful, but he couldn’t have predicted just how enduring it would become.

“It was a whirlwind, and the show was iconic at the time. But with streaming, the way the business has changed, and the fact that Miley is a superstar, Hannah Montana is going to be hard to beat as the #1 Disney Channel show of all time. So no; I didn’t fully realize it would have the impact it has today, though I certainly felt its significance back then, especially with the younger fans.

“It’s pretty wild, because I get recognized all over the world from that role. I feel like I’m a lot of people’s first crush, or their fictional ex-boyfriend, or the jerk who cheated on them — ha! Most people identified with Miley as the main character, so I’m kind of like an old lover in their memory. The show imprinted on so many fans during a really pivotal time in their growing up.”

Over time, he says he’s learned to fully embrace the role rather than trying to distance himself from it.

“Back then I wanted to be known for more than just that one role; I wanted to be perceived as a versatile artist, not just ‘Jake Ryan.’ But now I’m more than okay wearing that badge of honor. As I mentioned, Jake is still very much a part of me.”

From the Ballroom to Everyday Life

Linley’s memorable run on Dancing with the Stars helped shape his confidence both on and off camera, and while he may not be performing routines regularly these days, dance still remains part of his life.

“Julianne is an incredible person, a lovely teacher, and a supremely talented and skilled dancer. I was really lucky to work with both her and Edyta Śliwińska during that time. I have so much more confidence on the dance floor now because of them.

“I knocked the dust off my ballroom shoes and took a lesson recently; I’m a bit rusty. But mostly I just like to wiggle around and act a fool. I haven’t practiced any real routines since the show, but I’d like to revisit something like that soon. I find dancing with a partner especially exhilarating.

“Dancing, singing, acting, and writing are all part of my daily life, so the spirit of it never really left.”

Early Hollywood Memories

Some of Linley’s fondest memories still come from his earliest film experiences, particularly filming My Dog Skip in Mississippi as a child actor.

“What a time that was! A summer in Mississippi with wonderful kids and a talented cast and crew. My first scene was simply throwing berries at my friends and using a metal trash lid as a shield. I was covered in fake dirt and had fake dip in my mouth; first it was prune juice, then it evolved into fruit roll-up.”

He vividly remembers discovering the “movie magic” behind certain scenes, including one where his character hit a home run despite being far too small to actually pull it off himself.

“But hanging out with friends and animals, getting to curse and getting paid for it, plus free snacks? I knew right then that acting was the career for me. Working as a professional actor is one of the greatest joys, and that’s a big part of why there’s so much competition for it. Being on set as an actor is just a blast.”

Linley also recalled long overnight shoots, bonding with animal trainers, and receiving career advice from Kevin Bacon while simultaneously recommending video games for Bacon’s son.

“For that movie to be my first feature film is just a massive blessing. I don’t want to say I was spoiled, but not all films are as special as that one is.”

Favorite Roles and Genres

Looking back across his filmography, Linley says comedy remains one of his favorite genres because of the energy it brings to both audiences and the set itself.

“Comedy is pretty fun because it’s lighthearted and uplifting. I feel like my sweet spot is quirky, heartwarming material; I’m also quite romantic at heart.”

Still, he’s increasingly interested in exploring darker, more emotionally layered material.

“I’ve been working on channeling my darker side for certain roles, and it’s been both freeing and exciting. But honestly, I feel like the best material has both comedy and drama woven into it, because life is that way. We experience the full spectrum, from hilarious to heartbreaking, every single day.”

Teaching the Next Generation

Beyond acting, Linley has developed a passion for mentoring young performers and helping them discover why they want to pursue the craft in the first place.

“Know why you’re doing this. Remembering your why will carry you through the tough times. My reason why is to inspire others, have fun, use my emotions as a healthy outlet, empathize with people, and tell stories that help others feel less alone.”

He emphasizes authenticity above all else.

“Do whatever you need to do to genuinely believe what you’re saying and doing is real; trust yourself, take risks, and have fun. Be specific about every person, place, and thing you reference in a script. Acting is an art, not a science, so find what works for you.”

Choosing Meaningful Projects

As his career evolves, Linley says he’s become increasingly focused on projects that challenge him creatively while also connecting with audiences emotionally.

“Playing different kinds of roles across different genres helps me expand and grow my confidence as a performer. Ultimately, I want to make films that leave people feeling inspired, entertained, and hopefully a little more curious and understanding of one another.”

He also hinted at future ambitions behind the camera, including writing and directing.

“Teaching and making films is such a lovely outlet for me; it allows me to support others and create something that is purely from the heart. Collaborating with others to bring a vision to life is the closest thing to making your dreams come true that I’ve ever experienced.”

Looking Back With Perspective

Asked what advice he would give his younger self during the height of Hannah Montana fame, Linley admitted that wisdom probably would have been wasted on his teenage self at the time.

“I’d probably say: don’t shy away from the opportunities coming your way. Milk the moment and remember what got you here, being professional and prepared. Don’t let the money or the fame go to your head.

“Honestly, at 19 I probably would’ve shrugged that advice right off. I was stubborn, naive, and, I’ll admit it, egotistical. But life has a way of humbling you.”

He shared that the loss of his brother at age 21 profoundly changed his perspective on life, success, and purpose.

“It helped me realign my life onto a more spiritual path and taught me what really matters. His passing reminded me of what my purpose was; art is my key and I must stick with it.”

Looking Ahead

Today, Linley remains fully immersed in the creative process, whether he’s auditioning, teaching, writing, or developing new ideas.

“There isn’t a day that goes by where I’m not working on my craft in some capacity. I’m committed to life as an artist. The reward truly is in doing the work.”

He says his ultimate goal is to continue growing through collaboration and meaningful storytelling while someday working alongside some of the industry’s most respected actors and directors.

“It’s not an easy path, especially with ambitions as big as mine, but it’s absolutely worth it.”

And for anyone still figuring out their own creative outlet, Linley hopes they’ll embrace art simply for the joy of it.

“Sing, draw, build something, goof off with your friends. Art has always been my safe place, and I genuinely believe every single person is creative. After all, we’re all just making it up as we go.

To follow Cody on all his social media, please visit his web site: https://www.thecodylinley.com/

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 Cover Photo Courtesy Cody Linley.

Bob Valleau is a regular entertainment writer for Texas Lifestyle Magazine.