Australian singer Firerose has opened up about her ex-husband Billy Ray Cyrus following a controversial performance at the Liberty Ball during Donald Trump’s inauguration festivities. The 36-year-old singer, who finalized her divorce from the country music icon in August 2024 after seven months of marriage, shared her thoughts in a statement obtained by PEOPLE.
“What’s being seen in public now reflects much of what I experienced in private during our relationship,” Firerose said, referencing Cyrus’ behavior during their marriage. The statement adds a layer of insight into the turmoil she endured while married to the 63-year-old country star.
The pair had been together for four years before tying the knot, but their marriage ended after just seven months. Both Firerose and Cyrus publicly accused one another of abuse during the divorce proceedings. While Firerose expressed her sadness over Cyrus’ ongoing struggles, she remains focused on her personal growth and healing.
“It’s very sad to see those same struggles continue for him,” Firerose continued. “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 also emphasized her commitment to faith, music, and using her own story to inspire others. “For me, I remain focused on my faith, my music, my healing and using my story to encourage others to find strength and hope.”
Firerose and Billy Ray Cyrus had appeared together at public events, including the 16th Annual Academy of Country Music Honors in August 2023. However, their personal lives took a dramatic turn in the months that followed.
In an interview with Stellar magazine in October 2024, Firerose admitted that if she could speak to her younger self, she would have advised herself to avoid Billy Ray Cyrus entirely. “When I think about what I just went through, I would have told my 22-year-old self to run in the opposite direction and never look back,” she said. The two first met when Firerose was 22 on the set of Hannah Montana, where Cyrus played a recurring role.
Firerose also opened up about her experiences during their relationship, claiming that Cyrus “love-bombed” her and tried to isolate her from others. She detailed a pattern of controlling behavior that left her feeling trapped and vulnerable.
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Cyrus, in turn, sought an annulment during their divorce proceedings, alleging that Firerose was “physically,” “verbally,” and “emotionally” abusive. However, Firerose denied these allegations, maintaining her innocence throughout the legal battle. A source close to Cyrus told PEOPLE that he felt relief after the separation. “He’s happy to be out of the marriage,” the source said. “He feels the marriage was all a scam. He feels lucky that he figured it all out.”
Billy Ray Cyrus made headlines again on January 20, 2025, during his performance at the Liberty Inaugural Ball in Washington, D.C. The performance quickly became a topic of concern as Cyrus, struggling with technical difficulties, delivered a lackluster rendition of his 1992 hit, “Achy Breaky Heart,” in a monotone voice. Fans and observers noted his apparent disorientation as he wandered around the stage.
In response to the backlash, Billy Ray Cyrus defended his performance in an exclusive statement to PEOPLE. “I wouldn’t have missed the honor of playing this event whether my microphone, guitar, and monitors worked or not,” Cyrus said. “I was there because President Donald J. Trump invited me. I had a ball at the Liberty Ball last night and I’ve learned through all these years when the producer says, ‘You’re on,’ you go entertain the folks even if the equipment goes to hell. I was there for the people and we had a blast. That’s called rock ‘n’ roll!”
While many fans were concerned about Cyrus’ health and well-being following the performance, his son, Trace Cyrus, took to social media to express his worry. On January 22, Trace posted an open letter on Instagram urging his father to seek help. “We are all hanging on to memories of the man we once knew & hoping for the day he returns,” Trace wrote. “You’re not healthy, Dad, and everyone is noticing it.”
In his emotional letter, Trace acknowledged his father’s struggles and expressed a desire to help. “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 concluded. “You know how to reach me. Till that day comes I will continue to pray for you.”
Despite the family drama, there are signs of hope for Billy Ray Cyrus. On January 24, just days after Trace’s letter, the country star announced that he would be releasing a new album this summer, produced by his son, Braison. In a statement, Braison, 30, shared how the past year had allowed him to grow closer to his father.
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“I’ve heard stories, jokes, and songs that I don’t think anyone else has,” Braison said. “It’s an opportunity to tell my dad’s story through music, and I’m fortunate to be able to take it. Music, stories, and family are the most important things to my dad, so to bring the two together is a full-circle endeavor.”
While tensions remain high between Billy Ray Cyrus and his family, the upcoming album offers a potential turning point in his personal and professional journey. Whether the release of new music can bring healing remains to be seen, but for now, it’s clear that the Cyrus family continues to grapple with deep challenges, all while attempting to move forward.
