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Disney Star Named Billboard Woman of the Year

High School Musical The Musical
Credit: Disney

Being only 18 years old, Olivia Rodrigo has not been on the scene for very long. However, she has already made a massive impact in both the television and music industry. First appearing in Disney’s Bizaardvark from 2016 to 2019, Rodrigo blew up when she landed the role of Nini in Disney’s High School Musical: The Musical: The SeriesThen, in January 2021, Rodrigo released her debut single, “Driver’s License”. The single was a hit and was critically acclaimed less than a week after its release. The song broke records and is now quadruple-platinum.

Credit: Disney

Olivia Rodrigo is certainly on top of her game, and people are noticing. Rodrigo has made such an impact that Billboard has named her its 2022 Woman of the Year. She will be honored at the Billboard Women in Music Awards, which will take place on March 2. Per Billboard:

“Olivia’s trajectory to superstardom is the stuff of pop music legend,” said Hannah Karp, Billboard’s Editorial Director, in a statement. “Her talents as a storyteller and songwriter have made Olivia one of the most authentic and exciting new artists to explode onto the scene in years. Connecting with audiences across generations through emotionally charged songs about heartbreak, jealousy and growing up, she’s achieved absolutely incredible chart success for a debut artist. We are thrilled to celebrate her unique voice and the enormous impact she’s had on fans around the globe in such a short time.”

Credit: Disney

Here are more of the iconic women who will also be honored at the Billboard Women in Music awards:

  • Gabby Barrett will perform and receive the Rising Star Award presented by Honda. 
  • Phoebe Bridgers will perform and receive the Trailblazer Award
  • Doja Cat will perform and receive the Powerhouse Award
  • Golnar Khosrowshahi (Founder & CEO of Reservoir Media) will receive the Executive of the Year Award. 
  • Karol G will perform and receive the Rule Breaker Award
  • Bonnie Raitt will perform and receive the Icon Award
  • Saweetie will perform and receive the Game Changer Award
  • Summer Walker will perform and receive the Chartbreaker Award

Credit: Disney

Rumors had been swirling that, due to her musical success, Rodrigo would not return to the popular Disney series if it was renewed for a third season. However, it has now been confirmed that she will return to the role of Nini. Disney also confirmed back in September 2021 that it had renewed High School Musical: The Musical: The Series for a third season.

Credit: Disney

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series also stars Joshua Bassett, Matt Cornett, Julia Lester, and Kate Reinders. Disney star Jordan Fisher has also made Guest appearances in the series.

About Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!