Welp, Billy Ray Cyrus’ disastrous performance at T*ump’s January 20 inauguration has sparked some more Cyrus family drama. If you managed to avoid the clips of Billy Ray stumbling through a cappella (if you can even call it that) renditions of Achy Breaky Heart” and “Old Town Road,” I envy you. I really wish I could un-watch those TikToks. Miley Cyrus’ older brother, Trace Cyrus, saw the performance online and expressed concern for his father via an open letter on Instagram. Now, he’s claiming Billy Ray wants to pursue “legal action” against him because of the post. This is just the latest round of public drama in the ongoing Cyrus family feud. (Not too long ago, there was lots of tension surrounding Billy Ray and Tish Cyrus’ divorce and their new marriages.)

Here’s everything to know about the Billy Ray Cyrus and Trace Cyrus’ feud, and Miley Cyrus’ reaction.

Trace Cyrus And Billy Ray Cyrus Drama Breakdown

What Happened Between Trace Cyrus And Billy Ray Cyrus?

Following Billy Ray’s concerning performance at the inauguration, Trace shared an open letter to his father in a January 22 Instagram Story. “It seems this world has beaten you down and it’s become obvious to everyone but you,” he wrote. “You may be upset with me for posting this but I really could care less at this point.” The musician added that he and “the girls” have been “genuinely worried” about Billy Ray for years.

“We are all hanging on to memories of the man we once knew & hoping for the day he returns,” Trace continued. “You’re not healthy Dad & everyone is noticing it.” He shared that he and his father haven’t been in touch for a while.

Trace wrote that he’s “over a year and half clean from alcohol” and feels “amazing” now. “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,” he added. “You know how to reach me. Till that day comes I will continue to pray for you.”

Evidently, Billy Ray didn’t see a problem with his performance. The day after the inauguration, he told People that it was an “honor” to sing at the event, and he also defended his performance on Instagram.

According to Trace, his father threatened legal action against him after that initial open letter on Instagram. In a follow-up post on January 26, Trace wrote, “I could have been extremely honest about a lot more but I don’t want to put your business out there like that.” He called his father (allegedly) threatening legal action “a disgrace.”

Trace finished, “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.”

Miley Cyrus’ Reaction To The Trace Cyrus And Billy Ray Cyrus Drama

Image Credit: Getty

Miley is reportedly staying out of the family drama at the moment. A source told People that she “used to feel overwhelmed by the family drama.” They added, ” She worked hard to remove herself. She’s not about to get involved again.”

The insider noted that Miley is “in a great place now … thriving and looking out for herself.” And it’s true — girlie was nominated for Best Original Song at the Golden Globes, and she’s also nominated for Best Country Duo/Group Performance with Beyoncé at the upcoming Grammys. NBD!

Although Miley doesn’t follow Billy Ray on Instagram and didn’t attend his wedding to Firerose, she did have some nice things to say about him back in June 2024 during an appearance on David Letterman’s My Next Guest Needs No Introduction. “Honestly, my mom is my hero,” she stressed. “My father… I’m grateful for being able to watch him ahead of me. He’s almost given me this map. There is a map of what to do and what not to do. And he’s guided me on both.” A very mature, sophisticated way of saying they have a shitty relationship.

Wishing Miley and her siblings all the best as they navigate this tough situation.