Miley Cyrus opens up about the deeply personal inspiration behind her new song for Avatar: Fire and Ashrevealing how his own life experiences shaped the emotional core of the track.
The Grammy-winning singer, 33, wrote the song Dream as one for the third installment of James Cameron’s hit franchise, and she says the message came directly from her own journey of loss, rebuilding and resilience.
Speaking about the project, Cyrus explained that the title of the film itself immediately echoed her life story.
“Just in the title, Fire and ashesI had my own experience of rebuilding from scratch,” she shared.
Cyrus lost her Malibu home in the 2018 wildfires, an experience that profoundly changed her perspective. That feeling of starting over, she says, became the emotional foundation of the song.
The timing of the project also seemed significant.
Reflecting on the devastating wildfires that hit parts of Los Angeles in early 2025, Cyrus explained that the song naturally evolved into a message of unity and healing.
“Lately we’ve all had this idea of being there for each other and stepping up when people need it,” she said, adding that it’s about community, chosen family and finding strength together.
For Cyrus, this theme reflects the heart of Avatar: Fire and Ashwhich continues the story of Jake and Neytiri as they face new losses and challenges.
She said the film’s message closely aligned with her own vision of resilience. “The ability to resurrect,” she noted, “is really what this story is about.” »
Unlike her usual songwriting process, Cyrus worked differently this time.
She explained that she was able to see the film while it was still in progress, which allowed her to shape the music around her emotional arc.
“I felt like I was part of building it,” she said, adding that the experience helped her connect deeply with the story’s themes.
The singer also reflected on how her past influenced her creativity, referencing the loss of her home as something that ultimately reshaped her outlook.
She previously called the experience the “greatest blessing” of her life, saying it taught her that growth often comes from hardship.
With Avatar: Fire and Ash now on film, Cyrus says she’s proud to be part of a project that celebrates resilience, connection and hope, themes that she says resonate far beyond the screen.
