Billy Ray Cyrus recently took to Instagram to share a heartfelt throwback photo of himself with his daughter, Miley Cyrus, from her early childhood. The nostalgic post comes amid ongoing rumors of a rift between the father-daughter duo. The 62-year-old country star posted a picture from the Country Music Association Festival, also known as Fan Fair, where he and a toddler-aged Miley were surrounded by thousands of fans.
In the photo, Billy Ray is seen flexing his muscles while holding Miley close, his hand covering the side of her head. He framed the image with a handwritten poem titled “The Moment,” which he wrote the day after the photo was taken. “One of my best memories ever: @cma Fest, back when it was Fan Fair,” he captioned the post. “That’s @mileycyrus and me, surrounded by thousands of incredible fans at the fairgrounds.”
Billy Ray expressed his pride in Miley, calling her a “survivor and a true artist.” He emphasized how she learned early on to love and appreciate her fans, a sentiment he shares deeply. “We both cherish the connection we have with our fans and are grateful for every single one of you!” he added. The post was accompanied by Miley’s hit song “Flowers,” which played in the background.
This touching post comes months after Miley’s notable Grammy win, where she seemingly snubbed her father in her acceptance speech. In February, Miley’s song “Flowers” won Record of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance. During her speech, she thanked a slew of individuals, including her mom Tish, but did not mention her dad. This omission fueled speculation about a strained relationship between Miley and Billy Ray.
The rumored feud between Miley and Billy Ray began after his split from her mother, Tish Cyrus, in April 2022. The couple had been together for 30 years but decided to part ways. Following the divorce, Billy Ray got engaged to Australian singer Firerose, which seemed to further strain his relationship with Miley. Fans noticed that Miley had unfollowed her father on social media and appeared to side with her mom.
Tish Cyrus has since moved on and married “Prison Break” actor Dominic Purcell in an intimate ceremony in Malibu. Miley served as the maid of honor at the wedding, which was attended by her siblings Trace and Brandy. The family event highlighted Miley’s close bond with her mother and siblings, contrasting with her seemingly distant relationship with her father.
Despite the rumored tension, Billy Ray’s recent Instagram post shows his unwavering support for Miley. He reminisced about their time together on the Disney Channel sitcom “Hannah Montana,” where they co-starred from 2006 to 2011. The show followed the lives of Robby Stewart (Billy Ray) and his daughter Miley Stewart (Miley), who led a double life as the pop star Hannah Montana.
Billy Ray’s post is a poignant reminder of the bond they once shared and his pride in Miley’s achievements. “I’m incredibly proud of her,” he wrote. “She’s a survivor and a true artist. She learned early on to love and appreciate the fans who make everything possible.”
The heartfelt message and throwback photo seem to be an olive branch from Billy Ray, hoping to mend their relationship. An insider revealed that the divorce between her parents has put a strain on Miley’s relationship with her dad, making it hard for them to connect. However, Billy Ray’s public display of affection and pride in Miley suggests he is making an effort to bridge the gap.
As Miley continues to thrive in her career, her father’s support remains evident. Despite the challenges and rumors, Billy Ray’s recent post underscores his love and admiration for his daughter. The sweet throwback photo and heartfelt message serve as a testament to their enduring bond, even amid family drama.
