Hilary Duff omission from Disney Channel AI Mount Rushmore sparks backlash from fans and celebrities
Disney Channel, Lizzie McGuire, Disney Channel controversy, Hilary Duff backlash
An AI-generated image shared by Complex Pop Culture featuring a Disney Channel 'Mount Rushmore' sparked backlash online after Hilary Duff was noticeably left out. The viral image, posted on April 17, 2025, featured Raven-Symoné, Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, and Zendaya — all iconic Disney stars — but fans quickly pointed out the omission of Duff, who played a central role in the network's early 2000s success.
Raven-Symone. Miley Cyrus. Selena Gomez. Zendaya.
Is this the Disney Channel Mount Rushmore? 👀 pic.twitter.com/nmRxytwrwa — Complex Pop Culture (@ComplexPop) April 17, 2025
Many social media users expressed disappointment, arguing that Duff — best known for her breakout role in Lizzie McGuire and the Disney Channel Original Movie Cadet Kelly — was essential to shaping the Disney Channel brand. 'The disrespect of Hilary Duff. SMH,' wrote actor O'Shea Jackson Jr. on X.
The disrespect of Hilary Duff. SMH https://t.co/Y7mnL0aXkb
— O'Shea Jackson Jr (@OsheaJacksonJr) April 18, 2025
Some fans suggested the lineup should be revised, with Duff replacing either Gomez or Zendaya. Many described Duff as 'the blueprint' for Disney stardom, given how she paved the way for future stars to transition into mainstream music and film careers.
This pains me to say because I love her, but Zendaya does not belong on a Disney Mount Rushmore. Her career really took off when she left Disney.
Hilary Duff should absolutely take Zendaya's spot here. Lol https://t.co/kah18SpN7z pic.twitter.com/65XqbBp8Qc — The Third King 👑 (@thirdking0208) April 18, 2025
Hilary duff and Ashley Tisdale deserve. And even the sprouse twins. Zendaya's best and biggest work came after Disney. https://t.co/6UawHMrpLR — honest (@imthehonestboy) April 18, 2025
Beyond Duff, fans also called out the absence of other influential Disney alums, including Cole and Dylan Sprouse (The Suite Life of Zack & Cody), Ashley Tisdale (High School Musical, Phineas & Ferb), Brenda Song, Demi Lovato, and Christy Carlson Romano. Tisdale, in particular, was highlighted for her versatile impact across multiple hit franchises.
Even Christy Carlson Romano weighed in, expressing frustration over the continued overlooking of her work as Kim Possible and Ren Stevens.
What started as a nostalgic tribute quickly turned into a conversation about legacy and recognition. For many fans, a true Disney Channel 'Mount Rushmore' isn't complete without Hilary Duff — a name synonymous with the network's golden age.
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