Miley Cyrus and Billy Ray Cyrus at Grammy Awards 2019

Insiders Reveal Miley Cyrus’ Thoughts After Watching Billy Ray Perform At Liberty Ball

Home / Entertainment / Insiders Reveal Miley Cyrus’ Thoughts After Watching Billy Ray Perform At Liberty Ball

By Kelly Coffey-Behrens on January 25, 2025 at 11:00 AM EST

Miley Cyrusreportedly watched her father, Billy Ray Cyrus’ performance at the Liberty Ball earlier this week.

The former Disney Channel star, known for her role in "Hannah Montana" alongside Billy Ray, has had a tumultuous relationship with her dad over the years. Tensions between the two were evident earlier this year when Miley noticeably excluded Billy Ray from her 2024 Grammys acceptance speech. Instead, she thanked her mother, Tish Cyrus, her sister, her “love,” and her stylists.

Despite expressing concern over his well-being after seeing the viral performance, insiders reveal that Miley Cyrus has no intention of reconciling with her father.

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Miley Cyrus Allegedly Has No Interest In Repairing Her Relationship With Billy Ray

Miley Cyrus performing with Billy Ray Cyrus at Glastonbury Festival 2019
MAR/Capital Pictures / MEGA

Billy Ray performed at the Liberty Ball in Washington, D.C., where he stumbled through a brief set that he later attributed to faulty equipment. The performance raised concerns within the Cyrus family.

Trace Cyrus publicly addressed the situation on Instagram, stating that he and his siblings, including Miley, are worried about their father’s well-being.

After Trace's post went viral, sources close to the family say Miley has not maintained a relationship with Billy Ray for some time and is not interested in mending their strained bond. However, per Page Six, she found his performance at the post-inauguration Liberty Ball “concerning.”

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Miley Cyrus Reportedly Agreed To Trace Cyrus' Social Media Post

Miley Cyrus, Tish Cyrus, and Billy Ray Cyrus at 2019 MusiCares Person Of The Year Honoring Dolly Parton
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

Insiders claim that Trace consulted with his siblings — excluding brother Braison — before posting his emotional plea on Instagram. According to these sources, they all agreed with his decision to address their concerns publicly.

Trace’s post expressed heartbreak over their father’s state, saying, “It seems this world has beaten you down and it’s become obvious to everyone but you.”

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

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Trace Cyrus Pens Open Letter To Billy Ray

Trace Cyrus at Tom Ford: Autumn/Winter 2020 Fashion Show
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

In his Instagram message, Trace also admitted he “barely recognizes” his father, adding, “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. I love you, Dad.”

Trace then revealed his personal journey, sharing that he has been sober for over a year and a half. He offered his father support, 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," he continued. "I don’t know what you’re struggling with exactly, but I think I have a pretty good idea, and I’d love to help you if you would open up and receive the help.”

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The Metro Station band member concluded his heartfelt post with a promise, “You know how to reach me. Till that day comes, I will continue to pray for you.”

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Billy Ray Draws Concerns Following Viral Performance

Miley Cyrus performing with Billy Ray Cyrus at Glastonbury Festival 2019
MAR/Capital Pictures / MEGA

As The Blast reported, country music star Billy Ray Cyrus took to the stage at President Donald Trump’s inaugural Liberty Ball earlier this week to perform his iconic hit, "Achy Breaky Heart." However, the performance was marred by a series of technical difficulties that tested the seasoned entertainer’s resolve and adaptability.

Throughout the set, Billy Ray faced issues with his guitar and microphone, forcing him to improvise in the moment. In a surprising turn, he ultimately performed portions of the song a cappella, stripping down the iconic tune to its raw essence.

At one point, the singer removed the microphone from its stand and began speaking the lyrics rather than singing them, demonstrating his determination to deliver a show despite the challenges.

Billy Ray Speaks Out Following Liberty Ball Performance

Billy Ray at CMA Music Festival 2019
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

The performance quickly became a topic of conversation, with attendees and fans weighing in on social media. In response to the chatter surrounding the performance, Billy Ray released a statement addressing the evening's events.

“I wouldn’t have missed the honor of playing this event whether my microphone, guitar, and monitors worked or not. I was there because President Donald J. Trump invited me,” he said. “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!”

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