Once celebrated as a beloved figure on Disney Channel, Billy Ray Cyrus has undergone significant changes in recent years. From his rise to stardom with the hit song "Achy Breaky Heart" in 1992 to his role as Miley Cyrus' on-screen father in Hannah Montana, Billy Ray's career soared. However, personal challenges have clouded this success. Following his divorce from Tish Cyrus, rumors of family discord emerged, particularly after Trace Cyrus' heartfelt Instagram post expressing concern for his father. Additionally, Billy Ray's performance at the 2025 Inaugural Ball raised eyebrows and sparked further worry among fans and family alike.
The journey of Billy Ray Cyrus is marked by both triumphs and trials. His musical career began with the breakout hit "Achy Breaky Heart," which launched him into the spotlight. This success was further solidified when he starred alongside his daughter Miley in the popular Disney Channel show Hannah Montana. For many years, the Cyrus family appeared to be a tight-knit unit, with Billy Ray and Tish raising five children together. However, their marriage faced difficulties, leading to their eventual split in April 2022. The divorce brought to light long-standing issues within the family, with Trace's emotional letter highlighting concerns about Billy Ray's well-being.
Billy Ray's performance at the Liberty Ball during President Donald Trump's inaugural celebrations in January 2025 drew widespread attention. Despite facing technical difficulties, he persevered, delivering an unconventional rendition of "Old Town Road" and attempting to sing "Achy Breaky Heart" a cappella. While the performance garnered criticism, Billy Ray defended it, emphasizing his commitment to entertaining the audience regardless of the circumstances. This incident underscored the challenges he has faced in recent years, both professionally and personally.
Miley Cyrus has also addressed her relationship with her father. During a June 2024 interview, she expressed gratitude for the guidance he provided throughout her life. She acknowledged that while her mother primarily raised her, her father's influence has been instrumental in shaping who she is today. Miley noted that despite their different upbringings, she holds deep empathy and compassion for her father's experiences, which have shaped him into the person he is now.
Billy Ray's relationships with his other children have varied. Noah has remained loyal to her father, while Braison's bond with Billy Ray has strengthened. In July 2024, they performed together at the Grand Ole Opry, and Billy Ray announced plans for a new album produced by Braison. Meanwhile, Trace's letter revealed concerns about Billy Ray's absence in Noah's life, adding another layer of complexity to the family dynamics.
The end of Billy Ray's marriage to Tish Cyrus was a turning point. After nearly three decades together, they separated in April 2022. Tish later shared that the relationship had been strained for years, and the pandemic allowed her time to reflect on her life. Her comments shed light on the challenges they faced and the reasons behind their decision to part ways. Following this, Billy Ray briefly married Firerose, but their union ended in May 2024 due to irreconcilable differences and trust issues.
Despite the challenges, Billy Ray continues to navigate his personal and professional life. His children, especially Braison, are working closely with him on new projects, signaling a hopeful chapter ahead. As the Cyrus family moves forward, there remains hope that healing and understanding will prevail, allowing Billy Ray to find stability and support from those who love him most.