Billy Ray Cyrus’ Ex Speaks Out After His Son’s Plea
January 24, 2025
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The ex-wife of Billy Ray Cyrus has weighed in on his eldest son’s public plea urging the country singer to seek help.
“What’s being seen in public now reflects much of what I experienced in private during our relationship,” Firerose told Page Six on Thursday, January 23.
“It’s very sad to see those same struggles continue for him, but I’m glad the truth is coming to light — for his potential good because healing is only possible when you confront the truth and accept there’s a problem,” she said.
The 25-year-old Australian singer’s comments follow Billy Ray’s performance at Trump’s post-inauguration Liberty Ball on Monday, January 20. During his two-song set, the country star was forced to sing his 1992 hit “Achy Breaky Heart” a cappella after what he later claimed were equipment malfunctions left him scrambling.
Firerose and Billy Ray Cyrus performed together at the Academy of Country Music Honors in Nashville, Tennessee, on August 23, 2023. Firerose and Billy Ray Cyrus performed together at the Academy of Country Music Honors in Nashville, Tennessee, on August 23, 2023. Jason Davis/Getty Images for ACM
Two days later, on Wednesday, January 22, Billy Ray’s son, Trace Cyrus, published an open letter to his dad on Instagram.
“Sadly the man that I wanted so desperately to be just like I barely recognize now. It seems this world has beaten you down and it’s become obvious to everyone but you,” the Metro Station guitarist-bassist wrote, in part, in the emotional post.
Trace, 35, who revealed he has been “clean from alcohol” for a year and a half, told Billy Ray, 63, that he feared “the world may lose you far too soon.”
“I don’t know what you’re struggling with exactly but I think I have a pretty good idea & I’d love to help you if you would open up and receive the help,” he wrote, concluding, “You know how to reach me. Till that day comes I will continue to pray for you.”
Billy Ray has not addressed the post, but on Friday, January 24, he and his son, Braison Cyrus, released a statement revealing the two were working on an album together.
“I’ve spent this past year getting to know my dad better than I ever have,” Braison, 30, said of the record, which will be his father’s first since 2019. “I’ve heard stories, jokes and songs that I don’t think anyone else has. It’s an opportunity to tell my dad’s story through music and I’m fortunate to be able to take it.”
Billy Ray noted the “special” album will be “art imitating life, imitating art.”
Firerose and Billy Ray split in 2023 following seven months of marriage. Their divorce was finalized in August 2024.
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