Miley Cyrus is opening up about the creative struggle and emotional journey behind her new original song, “Dream as One,” written for Avatar: Fire and Ash. The global superstar appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! Thursday night to discuss the highly anticipated film and revealed why writing music for a franchise as massive as Avatar pushed her in unexpected ways.
Cyrus, 33, told host Jimmy Kimmel that the scope of Avatar initially made the songwriting process intimidating, explaining that the title itself implied something enormous.
“‘Dream as One’ is a very massive and global title, and Avatar is loved all around the world. When I think of ‘we,’ I think of all of us. The instinct is to go toe-to-toe with the scale of Avatar,” Cyrus said.
However, director James Cameron steered her away from creating something big and powerful, instead encouraging a deeply personal approach.
“James wanted the song to feel intimate and emotional,” she continued. “It was a challenge to make something global feel small.”
Rather than trying to match the epic visuals and world-building the franchise is known for, Cyrus said she ultimately learned to embrace vulnerability.
“I chose to surrender to the scale of the film and make it something small. At the heart of James Cameron movies, it’s really about relationships, and they are actually very intimate stories.”
A Song Shaped by Personal Pain and Healing
Cyrus revealed that “Dream as One” was influenced by her real-life experience recovering after losing her home in a California wildfire several years ago, describing the songwriting process as deeply therapeutic.
“The song was like a journal entry. It was about rebuilding after loss, the quiet after devastation — and that’s at the heart of Avatar too.”
She explained that the emotional themes of unity, rebuilding, and family overlap powerfully with her personal journey, helping shape the song into something honest rather than cinematic.
Cyrus also spoke briefly about her relationship with musician Maxx Morando, confirming during the interview that the pair are officially engaged after four years together. She proudly displayed her ring and said the movie’s themes of love and connection reflected where she is in life now.
Avatar: Fire and Ash Hits Theaters December 19
The third installment in James Cameron’s billion-dollar franchise arrives December 19, 2025, featuring returning stars Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, and Kate Winslet. With the first two films dominating global box offices, Fire and Ash is expected to become one of the biggest releases of the holiday season.
Cyrus’ original track is already rumored to be a strong contender in the awards season conversation, potentially positioning her for an Oscar nomination.
“I hope the song helps people feel connected,” Cyrus said. “Because that’s what Avatar always does.”
Avatar: Fire and Ash opens in theaters worldwide on December 19.
