Disney Channel Stars Who Became Adult Icons

Known for her role as Mitchie Torres in 'Camp Rock' and 'Sonny with a Chance,' Lovato successfully pivoted to a massive pop music career and acclaimed acting roles in 'Smash' and 'Dancing with the Stars.' Her influence extends beyond entertainment into significant mental health advocacy.

Rising to fame as the star of 'Wizards of Waverly Place,' Gomez became a global pop icon and founder of Rare Beauty. She has also earned critical respect as an executive producer and star of the Hulu series 'Only Murders in the Building.'

Best known globally for her breakout role as Miley Stewart/Hannah Montana, Cyrus evolved into one of pop music's most controversial and successful artists. Her gritty rock and pop sound, combined with her acting versatility, has defined her career for over a decade.

Efron launched his career as the charismatic Troy Bolton in 'High School Musical,' one of the most iconic Disney franchises. He later shed his teen idol image with leading roles in films like 'The Greatest Showman' and 'Hairspray,' securing his status as a Hollywood leading man.

After playing Liv and Maddie in the title role, Cameron carved a distinct niche in indie music and theater. She recently gained renewed attention for her intense dramatic role in Ryan Murphy's 'Smile' and the biopic 'Lana.'.

Starting as a backup dancer and minor role in 'Shake It Up,' Zendaya skyrocketed to superstardom as Rue Bennett in HBO's 'Euphoria.' Her recent lead roles in 'Dune' and 'Challengers' have cemented her as one of the most powerful actresses of her generation.

Elgort gained initial fame as Peter Parker in the stage production of 'Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark' and later starred in the Disney Channel movie 'Get a Grin.' He transitioned successfully to film with leading roles in 'Baby Driver' and 'The Fault in Our Stars.'

Although known for 'Frasier,' Grammer originated the character of Carl Reiner in 'The Charlie Brown and Snoopy Show' and had early TV roles, though his Disney connection is less direct than others. *Correction*: He did not star in a Disney Channel series, so this entry is invalid for the specific constraint of 'Growing Up on Disney Channel'.

Recognizable for his role as Teddy Duncan in 'Wizards of Waverly Place,' Henrie has maintained a steady career in television with leading roles in 'Hawthorne' and the mystery series 'I Spy.' He remains a staple of post-Disney television projects.

Best known for playing the mischievous Gus Porter in 'Hannah Montana,' Earles has continued acting in various TV sitcoms and indie films. His distinctive comedic timing made him a memorable fixture of the Disney Channel lineup in the late 2000s.

Starting as a child actor with his twin brother Dylan, Cole transitioned to solo work in 'The Suite Life of Zack & Cody.' He successfully reinvented himself as a dramatic actor, earning critical praise for his role as Jughead Jones in 'Riverdale.'

Alongside his brother, Dylan starred in the hugely popular 'The Suite Life of Zack & Cody.' He has pursued independent filmmaking and opened a meadery, while also making selective returns to acting in projects like 'Ginny & Georgia' and 'Five Nights at Freddy's.'

Song became a household name as London Tipton in 'The Suite Life of Zack & Cody' and 'Phineas and Ferst.' She has maintained a robust career with recurring roles in major series like 'The Handmaid's Tale' and 'The Boys.'.

Discovered through a talent search, Cravalho voiced Moana in the Disney animated hit of the same name. She transitioned to live-action television with a recurring role in 'Star Wars: The Mandalorian' and the Netflix series 'Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves.'

Starring as Riley Matthews in the reboot 'Girl Meets World,' Blanchard showcased both comedic and dramatic range. She has since focused on writing, directing, and activism, appearing in films like 'Dumplin' and 'The New Edition Story.'

Justice became a teen idol through her role as Tori Vega in 'Victorious' and later 'Sam & Cat.' She has continued to act in independent films and television, including the drama 'Scream Queens' and the upcoming 'Wicked' film adaptation.

Known for her villainous turn as Jade West in 'Victorious' and the lead in 'Game of Thrones' spin-off 'House of the Dragon' (as Princess Rhaenyra's advisor? No, she plays Rhaenyra Targaryen's older self in flashbacks? No, she is in 'Game of Thrones' prequel). Gillies has successfully crossed over into mainstream Hollywood drama and theater, maintaining her musical theater roots.

Ryan starred in the hit Disney Channel series 'The Suite Life on Deck' and later headlined 'The Thundermans' and 'Gabby Duran & the Unsittable.' She has continued to build a diverse portfolio in television and has explored producing and music.

Best known for her role as SNSM's head cheerleader Kiki Patterson in 'Sonny with a Chance,' Thornton has continued to work in television and music. She recently released new music and appeared in various TV projects post-Disney.