Just days after his performance at Donald Trump’s inauguration, Billy Ray Cyrus’ son Trace Cyrus posted an open letter on Instagram claiming that his father is someone “I barely recognize now.”
“From my earliest memories, all I remember is being obsessed with you and thinking you were the coolest person ever,” Trace wrote on Instagram last night alongside a photo of him and Billy Ray. “I wanted to be like you. The day you adopted me was the happiest day of my life. Sadly, the man I so desperately wanted to be, as I barely recognize him now. It seems like this world has beaten you down and it has become obvious to everyone except you.
He added that he didn’t care if his father was “mad” at him for the post, noting that his sisters, Miley Cyrus and Noah Cyrus, shared his concern.
“The girls and I have been really worried about you for years but you have pushed us all away,” wrote Trace, who is also a musician. “Noah desperately wanted you to be in her life and you weren’t even there for her. It’s your little girl. She deserves better. Somehow, just like me, she still idolizes you. We all cling to memories of the man we once knew and hope for the day he returns.
He continued: “You’re not in good health, Dad, and everyone notices it. Just like I came for you at Mom’s funeral when you didn’t expect me to, I’m still here right now. As I write this with tears in my eyes, I hope you realize that this message only comes from a place of love and that you also fear that the world will lose you far too soon.
Trace also shared that he’s now “been alcohol-free for over a year and a half,” adding that he feels “amazing.” He added: “I don’t know exactly what you’re struggling with, but I think I have a pretty good idea and I’d love to help you if you open up and get some help.”
Although Trace references Miley and Noah in the post, neither sister has commented or shared anything similar. The letter comes shortly after Billy Ray was forced to defend his decision to perform at Liberty’s inaugural ball on Monday.
“I wouldn’t have missed the honor of playing this event whether my microphone, guitar and monitors were working or not,” the musician wrote in an Instagram post Tuesday. “I was there because President Donald J. Trump invited me.” He added: “I had a great time at the Liberty Ball last night and I’ve learned over all the years, when the producer says ‘let’s go’, you have to entertain people even if the equipment goes hell. I was there for the people and we had a great time. It’s called rock n roll!!!
Since his performance, people online have criticized the country artist, calling the show a “train wreck” and an “epic disaster.” With a microphone and muted guitar, a hoarse Cyrus attempted to sing both his and Lil Nas his 90s hit, “Heartbroken and Painful.”
