Many of us grew up watching Disney Channel and we all had our favorite Disney show or movie. Whether it was Hannah Montana or High School Musical, when we hear those songs, our childhood nostalgia kicks in. It seemed like every child actor was also a singer through Disney Channel, but some actors actually did further their performance careers and have topped the charts all over the world. Here are 13 Disney Channel child actors that have turned into successful performers.
1. Christina Aguilera
Yes, it's true! Aguilera started her singing career on the set of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, which aired from 1989 to 1996. Aguilera appeared on the show from 1993-1994 along with two other "Mouseketeers" which have made this list. Since her Disney days, this pop star she has released countless number 1 singles such as "Genie In A Bottle," "Fighter," "Beautiful," and "Lady Marmalade." Christina also sang "Reflection," for the Disney princess movie Mulan.
2. Justin Timberlake
JT also stared on Mickey Mouse Clubhouse with Aguilera for 2 seasons. Timberlake may be better known for his time in NSYNC, but in the early 2000's Timberlake's solo career topped Billboard charts and has even received 9 Grammy Awards. JT still acts as well in movies such as Trolls, Bad Teacher, and The Social Network.
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3. Britney Spears
Our 3rd "Mouseketeer" from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse is none other than Britney Spears. With 9 hit albums and a current Vegas show, Britney Spears has taken over the pop culture scene, especially with singles like "Gimme More," "Circus," and "Make Me..."
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4. Hilary Duff
Duff started on her own show titled Lizzie McGuire from 2001-2004 which even included The Lizzie McGuire Movie. Hilary Duff also acted in several other movies including A Cinderella Story, Cheaper By The Dozen, and Cadet Kelly. She has released 5 albums, with her most notable singles being "So Yesterday," "Come Clean," and "Why Not."
5. Aly & AJ
While Aly Michalka was most recognized for her acting in the Disney show Phil Of The Future, she also starred in the movie Cowbells, with her sister AJ. In 2004 the sisters released their album "Into The Rush," which included remakes of "Walking On Sunshine" and "Do You Believe In Magic." Their 2nd album "Insomniac" had 3 very popular songs which were "Like Woah," "Chemicals React," and "Potential Break-up Song."
6. Miley Cyrus
Where to even start? It's safe to say that Miley Cyrus, or for us millennials, Hannah Montana, has made her career very well known throughout the years. With 5 tours, and 5 albums Cyrus has created many different styles of music as has most definitely evolved from her Hannah Montana alter ego. From singles like "See You Again," to "Wrecking Ball," Miley Cyrus hasn't stopped surprising her fans or creating new music.
7. Vanessa Hudgens
Vanessa Hudgens is known for her role as Gabriella in High School Musical alongside her love interest Zac Efron. She has most recently acted in Grease: Live as well as her Broadway role in the musical "Gigi." Hudgens also had a 2 albums which included hit songs like "Say OK," "Come Back To Me," and "Sneakernight."
8. Ashley Tisdale
Another High School Musical star whose music career also led to 2 albums. Tisdale also starred in Disney show The Suite Life of Zach and Cody. Tisdale and her husband also posted a video duet cover of Paramore's "Still Into You," which had fans begging for more covers.
9. Nick Jonas
Between the Jonas Brothers Band and Camp Rock, the stage was set for Nick Jonas to branch out with a solo career. His fan base from Disney followed him all the way to his current releases with songs like "Chains," "Bacon," and "Jealous."
10. Joe Jonas
Another Jonas Brother who gained his fame from Disney and built an even more successful singing career. Recently Joe Jonas' band DNCE has had hits like "Cake," and "Body Moves."
11. Demi Lovato
Demi entered the Disney scene with Camp Rock, Sonny With A Chance. Lovato's solo career led her to 5 albums. "Skyscraper," "Confident," "Give Your Heart A Break," and "Stone Cold," are among some of the hits.
12. Selena Gomez
Selena starred on Disneys Wizards of Waverly Place and also had roles in Disney movies like Princess Protection Program and Another Cinderella Story. Gomez has 5 albums total including her album with her band Selena Gomez and the Scene. Her most recent tour is the Revival tour which featured songs "Good For You," "Who Says," and "Same Old Love."
13. Zendaya
Last but not least is Zendaya. She started on Disney's more recent show Shake It Up, and broke into the music scene with her self titled album. The album featured songs "Replay," and "Fireflies."
Who are some other Disney child actors you like that turned into successful performers?
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