Billy Ray Cyrus a famed musician and actor has come under the media's focus recently. He is most notably for being the father of singer Miley Cyrus and playing her on screen dad in Hannah Montana. Now there is controversy surrounding an performance he did at Donald Trump's inauguration.
Billy Ray Cyrus at the Inauguration
Billy Ray Cyrus performed at the Liberty Ball an event part of Donald Trump's Inaugural celebration. His performance led to many people online creating critiques due to mishaps.
Technical Difficulties
The start of the show went awry when his performance of "Old Town Road” had technical glitches. He repeated lines from his song, moved around on stage without musical tracks and had issues with the guitar. Billy Ray was then confused with how to carry on but still continued to perform his well known song Achy Breaky Heart. The result of technical difficulty has made many viewers question his well being .
Son Trace Cyrus’s Emotional Letter

After the Inauguration events and the criticisms received from fans Billy Ray Cyrus’s adopted son Trace wrote an emotional message. He made known the concerns he and his sisters have with Billy Ray's behaviors .
Claims of Family Strain
Trace made claims about a history of disconnect that has led to family estrangement between his dad and him. He did also state that all the children have felt it from his pushing away those closest. His claims indicate he is speaking for himself and his sisters which include Miley and Noah Cyrus.
Concerns about His Well Being
Trace mentioned he didn't know what exactly his father was going through but believed he had a good idea. The intention for speaking out was that his father needs help due to declining health. His message noted “I hope you realize this message only comes from a place of love and also fear that the world may lose you far too soon." He hoped for change and that he will be praying until that happens.
Billy Ray Cyrus’s Response

While facing negative responses to the performance at the inauguration event, he gave feedback that he felt it an honor to be on stage regardless if things did not work as planned. Billy Ray claims it as the way of "rock n roll".
Justifying the Actions
After comments that he did not appear as well during his performance he dismissed those concerns. His reaction indicates that despite technical issues his performance was still done and that he saw value in the moments given. He chose to address these critiques through his past views and what was needed at the moment and does not regret those actions.
Family Perspectives and Background

The reactions from others are important due to how all of them have grown within the Hollywood space and public view. Past successes and turmoil will impact any message being delivered.
Miley Cyrus's View
While not addressing specifics Miley acknowledged her own relationship with Billy Ray during an interview with a public acknowledgment of his influence stating she inherited many parts of her way of thinking from him. Despite that public statement she made sure to also note it was her mother who did the raising of herself and siblings.
Other Family Members
It was noted by various outlets how Noah and Billy Ray remained close until recently. It was said she remained loyal to her father but Trace claims he has not made attempts to connect with his younger daughter. Braison was in collaboration with Billy Ray on a music project prior to all the fallout but it has been made clear his other children are not getting involved with these statements and drama.
Billy Ray Cyrus’s Relationship History

Prior to being in a marriage with Fireose Billy Ray Cyrus and Tish were married for a little over 30 years. This union produced five children which he claims as life long memories that changed him.
Divorce from Tish Cyrus
Billy Ray and Tish’s relationship was difficult to maintain in the early 2010's with two previous filed divorces that had previously taken place before reconciling. Then the third divorce was official in 2022 and she has been openly stating her side of how the events unfolded. She mentions that living during a pandemic apart had given her the space she needed. And without his presence or her mom present to influence choices made her finally leave the marriage she was so "scared to leave".
Divorce from Firerose
His next marriage to singer Firerose was short and messy. Only a few months after getting married in October of 2023. Then Billy Ray sought a divorce accusing his ex of fraud and that she did not marry for love. Following that separation Firerose claims she faced "verbal emotional and psychological abuse”.
Firerose’s Remarks Post Performance
Following Billy Ray's performance, ex-wife Fireose expressed that she was able to relate with Billy Ray's struggles that others may have now seen in a more public manner. Her intention was to address the pain they had from her prior relationship to give new focus in the truth in all accounts of his actions.
Key Takeaways
- Billy Ray Cyrus has recently come under criticism for an inauguration performance.
- His son Trace publicly issued his concerns while accusing his father of creating family tension over time.
- Billy Ray Cyrus responded to criticism by claiming his ability to perform no matter the situation as "rock n roll."
- Billy Ray’s two ex wives were featured as contributing elements in the discussion after they had both been in difficult separations from the singer.
- His complicated relationships with his wife and children brought scrutiny into how fame and lifestyle can alter the family dynamic.