S Poddar
Firerose has finally broken her silence after her ex-husband Billy Ray Cyrus’ much-criticized performance at Donald Trump’s inauguration, saying she is “glad the truth is coming to light.
The 63-year-old country singer took the stage at the Liberty Ball on January 20 as part of the presidential celebrations, but his set was marred by a series of technical difficulties. His guitar sound fluctuated unpredictably, his microphone repeatedly cut out, and at one point, the stage lights went dark, leaving him in an awkward position mid-performance.
Apart from the technical flaws, many viewers have been worried about Cyrus’ behavior overall in the performance. The incident has ignited widespread discussions, with some doubting whether he was fine or not. Today, Firerose, who recently ended her marriage to the artist last year, chimes in about the case.
“What’s being seen out in public now is much of what I saw in private during our relationship,” Firerose told People. “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. For me, I remain focused on my faith, my music, my healing, and using my story to encourage others to find strength and hope.”
Her comments come just days after Cyrus’ son, Trace, publicly expressed his concerns about his father in a very emotional public post. The guitarist for Metro Station and the older brother of Miley and Noah Cyrus voiced profound concern over his father’s health.
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,” Trace shared.
He was not shy about the distance that has seemed to open between Cyrus and his family. “You might be angry with me for posting this but, honestly, at this point I really care less. Me and the girls have been greatly concerned about you for many years but you pushed all of us away.”
Trace also revealed to the audience that he has remained sober for well over a year and a half and directly approached his father: “I don’t know exactly what you are struggling with but I think I have a pretty good idea and I would really love to help you if you would open up and receive help. You know how to reach me. Till that day comes I will continue praying for you.”
However, Billy Ray Cyrus himself took back the issue of performance controversy and expressed his defiance over it. Speaking to People, he simply swept aside technical problems relating to his performance by saying, “I wouldn’t have missed the honor of playing this event whether my microphone, guitar, and monitors worked or not. That’s called rock and roll!”
Cyrus and Firerose married in October 2023. The marriage did not last long as they separated in May the following year, with divorce papers citing irreconcilable differences and inappropriate marital conduct. Things got ugly when Firerose claimed she was abused, a charge Cyrus has flatly denied. He claims it was Firerose who was “physically, verbally, and emotionally” abusive in their relationship.
The drama cast against Cyrus has made a shadow of sorts over his career, and the personal struggles that had been veiled behind closed doors are now the stuff of public conversation. Fans and observers alike wonder whether he will take the concerns of his family to heart or continue down the current path.
For Firerose, though, it is healing and moving forward. Her words speak of closure and a need to channel the experience into something positive, hoping to inspire others who may be going through similar things.
The media and the fans never leave Cyrus alone while discussing his performance at Trump’s inauguration. However, now the larger discussion revolves around his well-being. Whether he will raise the issues raised by his family remains to be seen, but definitely, one thing is clear: his personal life has now intertwined with professional life like never before, and the world is closely observing it.
