Zach Bryan announces end to touring amid emotional abuse allegations

Country music star Zach Bryan has announced his plans to quit touring, coinciding with explosive allegations from his ex-girlfriend, Barstool Sports personality Brianna "Chickenfry" LaPaglia.

LaPaglia accused Bryan of emotional abuse during their year-long relationship, a claim she made during the "BFFs" podcast on the same day Bryan shared his news.

In an emotional Instagram post, Bryan, 28, shared the profound moment that led to his decision. During a late-night visit to his mother's gravesite in Oklahoma, Bryan had an epiphany about his path forward.

"After not being home for a year and a half, I drove out to my mother's gravestone... and I came to realize, just like in the past, that she never would call me again," he wrote.

Bryan disclosed plans to pursue a master's degree in Paris, signaling a shift from his hectic touring schedule.

"Told her I quit touring because I got accepted to get my master's in Paris next year... Told her about porch swinging with my beautiful sister, all the calluses on my fingertips, every tear shed," Bryan added.

The poignant visit also inspired Bryan to complete a new song, "High Road," which he released the following day. In the track, he candidly sings, "Everyone is tellin' me that I need help or therapy / But all I need is to be left alone."

Allegations of Abuse Add to the Controversy

LaPaglia's revelations on the "BFFs" podcast painted a troubling picture of her relationship with Bryan.

She claimed that the Grammy-winning singer subjected her to a "constant cycle" of emotional abuse, including offering her $12 million to stay silent about their relationship-a deal she said she refused.

"He didn't like that I wore a sheer dress to the Golden Globes," LaPaglia alleged, adding that Bryan also "freaked the f-k out" when she sang a Morgan Wallen song at his home.

She described Bryan as someone who "broke" her emotionally and made her feel "scared" during their time together.

Bryan has not directly addressed the allegations but reposted a cryptic quote from Jack Kerouac's On the Road: "Everybody in the world wants an explanation for your acts and for your very being."

Despite announcing his intention to quit touring, Bryan plans to honor his remaining commitments. His "Quittin' Time" tour, which began in March, is set to conclude in December with additional shows scheduled in London for June 2025.

Bryan shared his excitement for the final leg of the tour, writing, "I've never been more excited to finish a run up... see you on the road."

Zach Bryan's announcement comes as he faces mounting scrutiny over his personal life. Known for his raw and emotional songwriting, Bryan's professional achievements are now clouded by the allegations surrounding him.

As he transitions away from touring and begins a new chapter, the duality of his public persona-beloved musician and controversial figure-will undoubtedly remain a focal point for fans and critics alike.