Firerose Says the 'Truth Is Coming to Light' About Her Ex-Husband Billy Ray Cyrus: 'It's Very Sad'

Firerose is speaking out following her ex-husband Billy Ray Cyrus' inauguration performance controversy.

In a statement obtained by PEOPLE, the Australian singer, 36, says of Cyrus, 63, "What’s being seen in public now reflects much of what I experienced in private during our relationship."

The "Achy Breaky Heart" singer and Firerose's divorce was finalized in August 2024 after seven months of marriage. The two were together for four years prior to their wedding, and during their divorce proceedings they both claimed their relationship was marred by abuse.

"It’s very sad to see those same struggles continue for him, but I’m glad the truth is coming to light — for his potential good because healing is only possible when you confront the truth and accept there’s a problem," she continues. "For me, I remain focused on my faith, my music, my healing and using my story to encourage others to find strength and hope.”

Related: Billy Ray Cyrus Announces New Album Produced by Son Braison amid Inauguration Performance Controversy: 'Gonna be Special'

Firerose previously spoke out in an October 2024 interview with Stellar magazine about wishing she could go back and tell her younger self to "run" when she first met Cyrus on the set of Hannah Montana at age 22.

“When I think about what I just went through, I would have told my 22-year-old self to run in the opposite direction and never look back,” she told the magazine.

In the interview, the "After the Storm" singer claimed Cyrus "love-bombed" her and alleged he sought to isolate her.

For his part, Cyrus requested an annulment on the grounds of fraud during their divorce proceedings, and alleged Firerose was "physically," verbally and emotionally abusive in a lawsuit. She denied all allegations against her.

"He's happy to be out of the marriage," a source told PEOPLE at the time of Cyrus. "[He feels the marriage] was all a scam. He feels lucky that he figured it all out."

On Monday, Jan. 20, Cyrus sparked concern during his performance at Donald Trump's inaugural festivities. At the Liberty Ball, the Grammy winner experienced technical difficulties, leading to him singing his 1992 hit song "Achy Breaky Heart" in a monotone voice and appearing to wander around the stage.

Related: Trace Cyrus Says Dad Billy Ray Hasn’t ‘Been There’ for Sister Noah and Has 'Pushed Us All Away’: 'That's Your Baby Girl'

Following his performance, Billy Ray's son, Trace Cyrus, penned an open letter to his father asking him to reach out for help, which he shared on Instagram on Wednesday, Jan. 22. "We are all hanging on to memories of the man we once knew & hoping for the day he returns. You’re not healthy Dad & everyone is noticing it." Trace, 35, wrote he part.

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

Billy Ray shared a statement about his performance exclusively with PEOPLE on Jan. 21.

"I wouldn’t have missed the honor of playing this event whether my microphone, guitar and monitors worked or not. I was there because President Donald J. Trump invited me," he said. "I had a ball at the Liberty Ball last night and I’ve learned through all these years when the producer says, 'You’re on,' you go entertain the folks even if the equipment goes to hell. I was there for the people and we had a blast. That’s called rock n roll!!!"

Days after Trace's open letter, Billy Ray announced that he'll be releasing a new album this summer produced by son Braison.

Braison, 30, spoke positively about the family patriarch in a statement, writing that he'd spent the last year "getting to know my dad better than I ever have."

“I’ve heard stories, jokes and songs that I don’t think anyone else has. It’s an opportunity to tell my dad’s story through music and I’m fortunate to be able to take it,” he said. “Music, stories and family are the most important things to my dad so to bring the two together is a full circle endeavor.”

Read the original article on People