Miley Cyrus Says She ‘Genuinely’ Wants to Act Again as She Signs With Atlantic Records and Charts Next Chapter: ‘I’d Love to Disappear Into Something Romantic’

Miley Cyrus has taken on the role of guest editor for the latest issue of Wonderland magazine, using the opportunity to curate a personally selected group of individuals she deeply admires while also examining her own creative evolution. The featured contributors include iconic figures like Dolly Parton—Cyrus's godmother and a country music legend with over 50 Grammy nominations—alongside actress Daryl Hannah, known for her roles in "Splash" and "Kill Bill." Family members such as her mother, Tish Cyrus-Purcell, and sister, Noah Cyrus, also appear, joined by a diverse array of artists: Kelela, Lykke Li, Sky Ferreira, 070 Shake, Towa Bird, Suzanne Vega, Tallulah and Scout Willis, Phantogram, and the band Model/Actriz. This mix reflects Cyrus's broad creative influences and her dedication to connecting different generations and musical genres. Industry observers note that her choice to feature both established veterans and emerging talents underscores a deliberate effort to highlight voices that have shaped her artistry in unique ways.

In a significant career development, Variety has confirmed that Cyrus has signed a new deal with Atlantic Records, departing from Columbia Records, where she released two albums. Her most recent Columbia project, "Endless Summer Vacation," featured the Grammy-winning single "Flowers," which dominated charts and streaming platforms worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling songs of 2023. The Wonderland issue includes a detailed conversation between Cyrus and Daryl Hannah, where the singer explores themes of music, creativity, and potential film projects. "For me, a song isn't just chords, melody, and lyrics. It's a feeling," Cyrus explained. "It's not right or wrong like an answer. It's alive. It almost becomes its own little entity that tells you what it needs if you're listening." She emphasized the value of working with collaborators who remain open-minded and ego-free, adding, "I love making records with people who aren't precious about ideas. There's no ego in the room when it's working. Just curiosity." Music industry analysts suggest that the move to Atlantic Records could mark a fresh creative phase for Cyrus, who has consistently reinvented herself—from her pop-country origins on "Hannah Montana" (a Disney Channel show that aired from 2006 to 2011) to the hip-hop-infused "Bangerz" era and the more reflective tones of her recent work. This pattern of transformation has kept her at the forefront of popular culture for nearly two decades.

When asked about what she finds most fulfilling about music creation, Cyrus offered a deeply introspective response. "I love feeling aligned with my purpose, my power, and my gifts. I feel closest to something bigger than myself when records flow through me," she said. "Songwriting feels like crossing over to another side sometimes. A new song can feel like I've already heard it before. Even if it isn't finished yet, I somehow know exactly what it is, almost like I'm remembering it instead of creating it. That's the mystery I love." This reflective perspective aligns with her recent artistic growth, which has embraced a more mature and experimental sound. Cyrus's career trajectory includes the psychedelic rock influences of her 2020 album "Plastic Hearts" and the pop-driven "Endless Summer Vacation," demonstrating her ability to adapt and explore new styles. Experts point out that such versatility has been key to her sustained relevance in a rapidly shifting music landscape, where artists often struggle to maintain audience interest over time.

Regarding potential returns to acting or directing, Cyrus hinted at promising opportunities ahead. "Well…That's partly why I wanted to get in touch. I'd genuinely love to do both. My dream has always been to work with artists I admire, and you're one of them. I think we'd make magic together, Daryl. I have an idea. Call me," she told Hannah. When makeup artist James Kaliardos inquired about her dream role, Cyrus expressed interest in a character that balances deep romance with grit. "Violence is everywhere, and there's a beauty in darkness, but I'd love to disappear into something deeply romantic," she noted. "The kind of love we dream about, but with real stakes. A good old Shakespearean tragedy would be hot – a punk-rock Juliet. Something fierce and heartbreakingly romantic." This vision suggests a possible shift toward dramatic and edgy film projects, building on her previous acting credits, which include the 2010 romantic drama "The Last Song" and a critically praised performance in the "Black Mirror" episode "Rachel, Jack and Ashley Too." Film critics have speculated that Cyrus's interest in darker, more nuanced roles could lead to compelling collaborations with directors known for boundary-pushing storytelling. The complete Wonderland feature is now available online, providing fans with an intimate look at Cyrus's creative process and future ambitions.