Billy Ray Cyrus’ Ex Firerose Says His ‘Struggles’ Are ‘Sad to See’ Amid Family’s Concerns for Him

Billy Ray Cyrus’ ex-wife Firerose is weighing in on his family’s concerns about the country star’s health.

“What’s being seen in public now reflects much of what I experienced in private during our relationship,” the Australia-born singer-songwriter, 36, 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.”

Billy Ray, 63, filed for annulment from Firerose in June 2024 after only seven months of marriage. Their messy divorce, which was filled with allegations of abuse from both sides, was finalized in August, In Touch confirmed at the time.

Firerose’s statement came days after Billy Ray put on an awkward performance at the Liberty Ball in Washington, D.C. on Monday, January 20. The “Achy Breaky Heart” singer experienced technical difficulties and appeared to become frustrated, telling the crowd, “Check? Is anybody awake? Y’all want me to sing more or you want me to just get the hell off the stage?”

However, Billy Ray went on to sing a cappella instead.

After receiving backlash for the performance online, the Hannah Montana alum took to Instagram to address the incident.

“I wouldn’t have missed the honor of playing this event whether my microphone, guitar and monitors worked or not,” he wrote on Instagram on Tuesday, January 21, later adding, “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!!!”

The performance and Billy Ray’s response are seemingly what prompted his son Trace Cyrus to make a public plea for his dad to seek help.

“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,” the former Metro Station guitarist, 35, wrote to Billy Ray, who adopted Trace and his eldest sister, Brandi Cyrus, after he married their mom, Tish Cyrus, in 1993.

Trace continued, “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.”

The “Lights Out” singer explained that he and his sisters — including Brandi, 37, Noah Cyrus and Miley Cyrus — “have been genuinely worried” about their father “for years.” However, Trace claimed that Billy Ray “pushed them all 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,” he continued. “We are all hanging on to memories of the man we once knew & hoping for the day he returns.”

Trace also pointed out that his family noticed Billy Ray becoming “not 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,” he noted.

The “Don’t Belong Together” singer concluded by asking his dad to get in touch with him while offering to help.

“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,” Trace wrote. “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.”