Billy Ray Cyrus’ Aussie ex, Firerose, ‘sad to see’ star’s inauguration ‘disaster’

Billy Ray Cyrus’s ex-wife, Aussie musician Firerose, has spoken out about the country star’s shambolic performance at Donald Trump’s inauguration after his family said they’re “worried” about him.

Billy Ray Cyrus’ Australian ex-wife Firerose has opened up about her concerns over the country star after he delivered a shambolic performance during Donald Trump’s inauguration celebrations.

After the country star stumbled through a disastrous performance at Mr Trump’s Liberty Ball earlier this week, his son Trace Cyrus said that the family is “genuinely worried” about him.

“What’s being seen in public now reflects much of what I experienced in private during our relationship,” Firerose — whose brief marriage to Cyrus was followed by a bitter divorce — told the New York Post.

Australian musician Firerose said it was “sad to see” ex-husband Billy Ray Cyrus struggling during a performance at Donald Trump’s inauguration. Picture: Supplied

“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.”

The 25-year-old Australian said in the aftermath of her marriage to Cyrus she’s now focused on her “faith,” “music,” “healing” and using her “story to encourage others to find strength and hope”.

Cyrus stumbled through a two-song set without backing music, even asking the audience at one point if they wanted him to “just get the hell off the stage”.

Billy Ray Cyrus and Firerose were married in October 2023 only to split seven months later. Picture: Supplied

Cyrus was forced to address the situation via an Instagram post where he blamed malfunctioning equipment on his performance after which son Trace issued a public plea to his “idol” to get help.

“Sadly the man that I wanted so desperately to be just like I barely recognise now,” Trace said.

Billy Ray Cyrus blamed malfunctioning equipment on his disastrous performance at an inauguration event. Picture: Getty Images via AFP

“It seems this world has beaten you down and it’s become obvious to everyone but you.”

Trace said that he and his sisters — including pop superstar Miley — “have been genuinely worried about [Billy Ray] for years” but that he has “pushed” them all “away.”

According to Trace, they “are all hanging on to memories of the man [they] once knew & hoping for the day he returns”.

Billy Ray Cyrus stumbled through his performance at the Liberty Inaugural Ball. Picture: Getty Images via AFP

With “tears in [his] eyes,” he went on, “You’re not healthy Dad & everyone is noticing it. … I hope you realise 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.”

Trace then said he’s “over a year and half clean from alcohol” and said he feels “amazing,” adding, “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.”

Trace Cyrus (far left) with sisters, Brandi Cyrus, Noah Cyrus, mum Tish Cyrus, and dad Billy Ray Cyrus in 2010, urged his father to “get help”. Picture: AFP

“You know how to reach me,” he wrote. “Till that day comes I will continue to pray for you.”

Firerose – real name Johanna Rose Hodges – and Cyrus married in October 2023. Seven months later, he filed for divorce, which was finalised last August.

“All I ever tried to do was love and trust this person, which was very ignorant of me,” the Australian told Stellar magazine in October.

“I really wanted to believe that he was the good version of the man I’d fallen in love with.”

Cyrus cited irreconcilable differences and inappropriate marital conduct as the reasons for the split. He also sought an annulment on the grounds of fraud.

Billy Ray Cyrus with superstar daughter Miley Cyrus in 2013. The pair are said to no longer be on speaking terms. Picture: Getty Images

He also accused the Australian of charging A$152,000 on his credit card and requested a temporary restraining order against her to prevent her from spending his money.

She responded to the claims by accusing him of “unpredictable and volatile” behaviour that equated to “extreme verbal, emotional and psychological abuse.”

Firerose later said she was blindsided by Billy Ray’s divorce filing, alleging that he forced her out of their marital home on the same day she was scheduled to undergo a double mastectomy.

“Billy had very strict rules,” she said. “I didn’t have a car. I was only allowed to go to the local chiropractor and allowed once a month to get my nails done. … It was systematic isolation, and I couldn’t find the courage to leave.”

Originally published as Billy Ray Cyrus’ Aussie ex, Firerose, ‘sad to see’ star’s inauguration ‘disaster’