"It seems this world has beaten you down": Miley Cyrus' brother issues plea to Billy Ray Cyrus to prioritize his health and family

Following Billy Ray Cyrus' performance at Donald Trump's Liberty Ball, the singer's adopted son, Trace Cyrus, took to Instagram on January 23, 2025, to express concern for his father.

Sharing a picture of himself and Billy Ray locking hands at what appears to be one of the singer's performances, Trace Cyrus wrote that since his earliest memories, he can remember "being obsessed" with Billy Ray and thinking about him as the "coolest person ever." Miley Cyrus' brother added:

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

According to a report by PEOPLE dated January 8, 2025, Billy Ray adopted Tish Cyrus' two children after marrying her in 1993. The children included Brandi and Trace, who are now 37 and 35 respectively.

The country singer and Tish then welcomed three children in the span of their 30-year marriage; Miley, Noah, and Braison. Additionally, Billy Ray shares a son, Christopher Cody, with Kristen Luckey, whom he dated prior to meeting Tish.

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"You’ve pushed all of us away": Trace Cyrus mentions in letter expressing concern for Billy Ray Cyrus

In his Instagram post expressing concern for his father Billy Ray Cyrus, Trace said he is aware of the fact that the singer might get upset with his post but he couldn't "care less at this point." Trace further mentioned:

"Me and the girls have been genuinely worried about you for years but you’ve pushed all of us away."

Talking about Billy Ray's youngest child, Noah Cyrus, Trace said that she "desperately" wanted her father to be a part of her life but he hasn't "even been there for her." He then expressed that Noah is Billy Ray's "baby girl" and deserves better, however, she still idolizes the country singer like Trace does.

The singer's adopted son added that they are "hanging on to memories of the man we once knew & hoping for the day he returns."

Commenting on his father's health and assuring Billy Ray Cyrus of his support, Trace Cyrus mentioned:

"You’re not healthy Dad & everyone is noticing it. Just like I showed up for you at mamaws 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 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."

Stating that he hasn't talked to Billy Ray Cyrus in a while, he addressed his father and mentioned that he is over a year and a half clean from alcohol and feels "amazing." Toward the end of his post, Trace Cyrus told Billy Ray that he isn't aware of what his father is struggling with but he has a "pretty good idea" and would love to help if the country singer was willing to open up and receive help.

Trace ended the post on a hopeful note, stating:

"You know how to reach me. Till that day comes I will continue to pray for you."

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On January 20, 2025, Billy Ray Cyrus performed hits like Old Town Road and Achy Breaky Heart at the Liberty Ball following Trump's inauguration. However, the singer's performance became a matter of controversy as he encountered technical difficulties mid-performance, resulting in the singer appearing annoyed. Billy Ray's performance at the Liberty Ball was subsequently heavily criticized by netizens.