Trace Cyrus claims Billy Ray threatened legal action after his public plea for dad to 'get help'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Trace Cyrus, the eldest son of country star Billy Ray Cyrus, has taken to social media to air grievances over his father’s alleged response to a heartfelt message urging him to prioritize his health.
In an emotional Instagram post on Saturday, January 25, the 35-year-old claimed that Billy Ray threatened legal action against him instead of addressing the concerns he raised.
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Trace Cyrus alleges Billy Ray Cyrus threatened legal action after he shared an open letter urging him to get help
"Dad, my message was beyond loving," Trace Cryus began in his post.
"I could have been extremely honest about a lot more but I don’t want to put your business out there like that. But for you to threaten me with legal action for wanting you to get help is a disgrace. Pappy is looking down at you with such disappointment, I can assure you," he added.
Trace went on to say that he still loves his father but no longer respects him as a man, writing, "You should be ashamed of yourself. I will always love you but I no longer respect you as a man. Everyone close to you is terrified to tell you how they really feel. I’m not. Get help."
Trace also addressed the situation in an Instagram Story, sharing that his father had contacted a family member to relay his intent to pursue legal action.
"For all of you wondering, no I still haven’t heard from my dad. He did contact a family member to let me know he’s taking legal action against me for encouraging him to get help. Dad, I live 30 minutes away from you. You could’ve just come & talked to me like a man," he wrote, expressing frustration at the lack of direct communication.
Trace Cyrus penned an emotional open letter to Billy Ray Cyrus about family struggles and well-being
On Wednesday, Trace Cyrus took to Instagram to share a heartfelt and emotional message addressing his father, Billy Ray Cyrus, expressing concerns about the country singer’s well-being and their strained family dynamic.
He opened the message with admiration, reflecting on his childhood idolization of the 'Achy Breaky Heart' singer.
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"Since my earliest memories, all I can remember is being obsessed with you and thinking you were the coolest person ever. The day you adopted me was the happiest day of my life," Trace wrote.
Billy Ray adopted Trace and his sister, Brandi Cyrus, after marrying his then-wife, Tish Cyrus, in 1993.
However, the tone shifted as he shared his heartbreak over what he described as his father’s struggles and distance from the family. "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," the 35-year-old continued.
Trace also revealed that Billy Ray’s estrangement has deeply impacted the youngest member of the family, Noah Cyrus.
"You may be upset with me for posting this but I really could care less at this point. Me and the girls have been genuinely worried about you for years but you’ve pushed all of us 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," Trace wrote.
Trace shared his concern for Billy Ray’s health, stating that the family holds on to memories of the person they once knew.
"You’re not healthy, Dad, and everyone is noticing it. Just like I showed up for you at Mamaw's funeral when you didn’t expect me to, I’m still here right now. I hope you realize this message only comes from a place of love and fear that the world may lose you far too soon. I love you, Dad."
The singer also opened up about his own battle with alcohol addiction, celebrating his progress and offering support to his father.
"I’m over a year and a half clean from alcohol. Guess what? I feel amazing. 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. You know how to reach me," Trace concluded.
