The Walt Disney Company created the series to continue the commercial musical success of its television network after the premiere of its made-for-television film "High School Musical" (2006) and earlier musical series. "Hannah Montana" was produced by It's a Laugh Productions in association with Poryes's production company, and premiered on Disney Channel on March 24, 2006. A concert film called ', in which Miley Cyrus performs as Hannah Montana and herself, was released in 2008. The following year, the feature film ' was released. The series concluded on January 16, 2011, as a result of Cyrus's growing popularity and music career, and her desire to move into more mature acting roles. All seasons of the show have been distributed through digital download and on streaming service Disney+.