In an Instagram post on Wednesday night (January 22), Billy Ray Cyrus’ son Trace Cyrus reached out to his dad in an emotional plea, begging the country singer to seek the help he needs.
“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. Sadly the man that I wanted so desperately to be just like I barely recognize now,” he wrote.
“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. 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.
“We are all hanging on to memories of the man we once knew & hoping for the day he returns. You’re not healthy Dad & 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.
He continued, calling on his father to seek help and to get sober: “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. 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.. 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.”
This comes after Billy Ray’s recent performance at Donald Trump’s inaugural Liberty Ball on Monday, during which he had a hoarse, raspy, voice and experienced technical difficulties.
But despite blaming the hiccups on equipment malfunctions, fans immediately expressed concern for the singer, with some on social media calling the performance “cringe-worthy” and “heartbreaking.” One person on TikTok even wrote: “Sad to see Billy Ray so messed up at the Liberty Ball.”