Billy Ray Cyrus’ ex-wife Firerose is speaking out after his son’s emotional plea regarding concerns for the musician’s behavior.
“What’s being seen in public now reflects much of what I experienced in private during our relationship,” Firerose, 35, 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.”
Firerose and Cyrus, 63, divorced in 2024 after less than a year of marriage and allegations of abuse. Cyrus denied the accusations at the time. Firerose noted to Page Six that she has moved on and is focused on “faith, music, healing and [using her] story to encourage others to find strength and hope.”
Billy Ray, meanwhile, has not publicly addressed his son Trace Cyrus’ recent call for him to seek help. (Billy Ray adopted Trace and his sister Brandi Cyrus after marrying their mother, Tish Cyrus, in 1992. The now-exes later welcomed children Miley, Braison and Noah Cyrus.)
“Since my earliest memories, all I can remember is being obsessed with you and thinking you were the coolest person ever. I wanted to be just like you. The day you adopted me was the happiest day of my life,” Trace, 35, wrote via Instagram on Wednesday, January 22. “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. You may be upset with me for posting this but I really could care less at this point.”
FIREROSE and Billy Ray Cyrus Jason Kempin/Getty Images for ACM
He added, “Me and the girls have been genuinely worried about you for years but you’ve pushed all of us away. Noah desperately has wanted you to be a part of her life and you haven’t even been there for her. That’s your baby girl. She deserves better. Somehow just like me, she still idolizes you though. We are all hanging on to memories of the man we once knew and hoping for the day he returns.”
Trace further claimed that Billy Ray wasn’t “healthy.”
“As I write this with tears in my eyes 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,” the Metro Station singer added. “I love you, Dad. We haven’t talked in a while but I’m over a year and half clean from alcohol. Guess what? I feel amazing. 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. You know how to reach me. Till that day comes I will continue to pray for you.”
Tish Cyrus, Braison Cyrus, Noah Cyrus, Billy Ray Cyrus, Brandi Glenn Cyrus and Miley Cyrus. Larry Busacca/Getty Images
Two days earlier, Billy Ray performed at the Liberty Ball in honor of the presidential inauguration. While the set featured a handful of technical difficulties, the two-time Grammy winner still enjoyed the experience.
“This was the most fun part of the Liberty Ball! And if you didn’t see it … you just had to be there,” Billy Ray wrote via Instagram before quoting his song “Achy Breaky Heart,” adding, “‘I just don’t think you understand.’”
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