Billy Ray Cyrus’ family pleads for him to get help after inauguration performance

[KENNEDY FELTON]

Country music legend Billy Ray Cyrus is no stranger to the spotlight, but his recent inauguration performance has sparked conversation and concern—not just among fans but also his own family.

At the Liberty Ball following President Trump’s swearing-in Monday, Cyrus performed his hit song “Achy Breaky Heart” a cappella after facing technical difficulties with his microphone and guitar—issues that also disrupted his earlier performance of “Old Town Road.”

But the challenges didn’t end there. After finishing the song, Cyrus remained on stage in the dark as the crew prepared for the next act, raising eyebrows from viewers.

The performance quickly set social media ablaze, with fans and critics alike weighing in on what they’d witnessed.

But perhaps the most striking reactions came from his own family, including his son Trace Cyrus, who shared an emotional Instagram post Wednesday.

In the post, Trace expressed deep concern, writing:

“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.”

Trace went on to describe how their youngest sibling, Noah, longs for a closer relationship with their father, accusing Billy Ray of pushing his family away.

“We are all hanging on to memories of the man we once knew & hoping for the day he returns. You’re not healthy Dad & everyone is noticing it…”

Trace opens up about his own sobriety, saying:

“We haven’t talked in a while but I’m over a year and a 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.”

Billy Ray’s seemingly tumultuous relationship with his family isn’t new. Singer Miley Cyrus has been very vocal about her estranged bond with her dad over the years. In an interview with David Letterman last year, she complimented some of her dad’s traits but ultimately praised her mother, Tish, who divorced Billy Ray in 2022, as her hero.

Adding to the conversation is Fire Rose—Billy Ray’s ex-wife of seven months who divorced him last year.

She spoke to Page Six Thursday saying:

“What’s being seen in public now reflects much of what I experienced in private during our relationship. 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.”

Despite the criticism, Billy Ray appears unfazed. Friday morning, he announced plans for a new album, set to be produced and co-written by his son Braison Cyrus.

When someone asked Trace why Braison seems to be posting as if Billy Ray is happy and healthy, Trace responded with:

“Birds of a feather flock together.”

He then follows this up with a video of himself working out, saying:

“Braison I can help you too. Man up boys”… seemingly addressing his own sobriety.

While Billy Ray Cyrus remains focused on his music, it’s clear his family’s concerns aren’t going unnoticed. Whether this public plea for help will lead to healing remains to be seen.