Billy Ray Cyrus 'threatens son with legal action' following controversial inauguration performance
Trace Cyrus - the adopted son of country musician Billy Ray Cyrus - has claimed his father has 'threatened' him with 'legal action'.
His assertion comes less than a week after he launched a public appeal at his dad on social media following the singer's controversial inauguration performance, writing in a statement that Billy Ray is both 'not healthy' and needs 'help'.
Billy Ray's 'messed up' inauguration performance
The 63-year-old 'Achy Breaky Heart' chart-topper was commissioned to perform on Monday (20 January) at the presidential concert of Republican leader Donald Trump, alongside the likes of Carrie Underwood, Nelly and Rascal Flatts.
Sadly, however, the performance didn't go as planned and following a number of technical difficulties - which affected both his microphone and guitar - the father-of-six lashed out at backstage staff.
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"Check? Is anybody awake?" he initially yelled, before adding: "Y'all want me to sing more or you want me to just get the hell off the stage?"
Attempting to make light of the situation, Billy Ray went on to tell the crowds: "In life, when you have technical difficulties, you just gotta keep going, or as President Trump would say, 'You gotta fight'."
The incident didn't go unnoticed by many viewers watching the controversial celebration from home, with one writing on X afterwards: "Watching Billy Ray Cyrus tonight was heartbreaking."
Another described the set as 'messed up'.
Trace's initial appeal
Following his father's performance, 35-year-old Metro Station musician Trace Cyrus - whom Billy Ray adopted as a youngster - took to Instagram to pen a lengthy message of concern regarding his father's behaviour.
Amongst the numerous heart-wrenching statements made was one which read: "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."
Trace - whose sisters are fellow hit-makers Miley and Noah Cyrus - went on to add: "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."
Adding that his father is 'not healthy', he claimed 'everyone is noticing it'.
Later, Trace added: "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."
It was then that Trace discussed his battle with addiction, adding: "I love you Dad. We haven't talked in a while but I'm over a year and a 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."
The latest 'legal action'
Returning to social media today, Trace has issued yet another statement aimed at his father, claiming that, since last week, Billy Ray had attempted to file a lawsuit against his own son.
"Dad my message was beyond loving," he began. "I could have been extremely honest about a lot more but I don't want to put your business out there like that.
"But for you to threaten me with legal action for wanting you to get help is a disgrace."
Trace went on to claim that his 'Pappy' is 'looking down' on his father 'with such disappointment', telling Billy Ray he 'should be ashamed' of himself.
He concluded: "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."
Tyla has contacted Billy Ray's representatives for a comment.
Rhianna Benson