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Miley Cyrus is candidly discussing her relationship with her father, country music icon Billy Ray Cyrus, highlighting his ongoing challenges with sobriety and their complex familial bond.
In a recent interview with the New York Times, Miley delved into various aspects of her personal life, including her upbringing, the impact of her parents’ divorce, and the dynamics of her father’s struggles with alcohol.
During the intimate conversation, the topic of Miley’s sobriety arose. She has been quite open about her commitment to abstaining from substances. Earlier this year, her brother Trace Cyrus, who maintains his sobriety, indicated concerns about their father’s choices.
Reflecting on Sobriety and Family Support
Miley shared her perspective on their discussions surrounding sobriety. She stated, “I think he has a harder time enjoying being sober. I kind of enjoy it. I think my dad is somebody that’s like, ‘That would be real nice right now.’” This acknowledgment reflects a profound understanding of their differing experiences and the generational gap in their approaches to wellness.
She continued by explaining that Billy Ray grew up in a significantly different era. According to Miley, he did not have the same level of mental health support that is more accessible today. “My dad just really didn’t have the support,” she shared, emphasizing the challenges faced by previous generations.
Music as a Common Ground
Despite their struggles, Miley clarified that she and her father do not shy away from discussing these topics entirely. “Me and my dad like to talk about music and movies. It’s not something that’s ever been our focus, but it probably should be,” she admitted. This highlights their preference for connecting through shared interests rather than delving into uncomfortable subjects.
In January, Billy Ray performed at the Liberty Ball, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s inauguration. The performance did not go smoothly, prompting Billy Ray to engage the audience with humor amidst technical issues.
A Family’s Response to Struggles
Following the performance, Trace expressed his worries openly in a heartfelt letter to Billy Ray. He wrote, “You’re not healthy Dad and everyone is noticing it.” This statement reveals the concern within the family and the hope for better communication regarding mental health and substance use.
In her interview, Miley expressed compassion for her father’s background. She reflected on the less privileged upbringing Billy Ray experienced, which included severe poverty and inadequate access to basic healthcare. “I definitely have a really compassionate place in my heart for my dad’s upbringing,” she emphasized, drawing attention to their contrasting life experiences.
Navigating Fame and Family Dynamics
When asked about the dynamics of fame within their family, Miley acknowledged the complexities that arise when comparing her career to that of her father. “That has added a level of complexity within my family, for sure,” she noted, shedding light on the emotional intricacies present in their relationship.
Moreover, she asserted that therapy has played a vital role in helping her manage feelings of guilt. “I had a hard time accepting that I could suffer, because of how blessed I am,” Miley explained, highlighting the mental health challenges that can accompany public life.
The Journey Towards Understanding
Miley further elaborated on the evolution of her relationship with Billy Ray, stating they are no longer estranged. As she matures, she finds herself respecting her parents as individuals rather than just as authority figures. This shift has allowed her to see both of them in a new light.
She shared, “I can love them both as individuals instead of as a parental pairing. I’m being an adult about it.” This realization points to significant personal growth and a healthier familial connection.
Embracing Change and Compassion
Miley noted that reconciling her childhood feelings with adult perspectives has been challenging yet rewarding. “My child self has caught up,” she said, emphasizing the delicate balance between past emotions and current realities.
As she continues to navigate the complexities of her family relationships and the pressures of fame, Miley Cyrus remains committed to fostering understanding and compassion within her family. In doing so, she offers a poignant glimpse into the life of a family deeply affected by both personal and public challenges.
This journey illustrates the evolving dynamics of the Cyrus family, where love, healing, and personal growth are paramount in overcoming past struggles.
