Country music star Billy Ray Cyrus has publicly shared his joy after his daughter, pop icon Miley Cyrus, announced her engagement to long-term boyfriend Maxx Morando. The father's heartfelt social media post comes after months of speculation about a rift between the two.
A Father's Public Congratulations
On Tuesday, the "Achy Breaky Heart" singer took to Instagram to post a series of nostalgic photos of Miley. His caption, which accompanied a throwback picture featuring godmother Dolly Parton, expressed his happiness for the couple. "No wonder you turned out so special … You have the greatest Godmother in the world!!!" he began. "So happy you and MaxxAgazillion found each other!!!! Congratulations! Happy to see you both so happy!!! love Dad."
The couple, who have been dating for four years, first sparked engagement rumours on Monday 1st December 2025 at the premiere of Avatar: Fire and Ash, where Miley was spotted with a significant diamond ring. The "Flowers" singer officially confirmed the news during an appearance on Good Morning America on Wednesday 3rd December.
Behind the Headlines: A History of Tension
Billy Ray's public message follows a period of rumoured estrangement, which Miley herself has alluded to in her recent work. In September 2025, she released the song "Secrets," explicitly dedicating it to her father on Instagram. She described the track as "a peace offering for someone I had lost for a time but always loved."
The lyrics of the song hint at past conflicts, with lines such as: "Call off all your forces/ A white flag in the war" and "Love is not a prison/ I'm not a guard, no." This musical olive branch was seen by many fans as a direct address to their complicated relationship.
Miley's Efforts Towards Family Peace
Earlier in the year, Miley addressed the persistent rumours of a feud in a detailed Instagram Story in May. While clarifying a separate issue concerning her mother, she turned her attention to her father. "My dad and I have had our challenges over the years," she wrote candidly.
She emphasised that family had become her top priority, stating: "Now, in my thirties, family is my priority above all else. I'm at peace knowing bridges have been built and time has done a lot of healing." This sentiment of reconciliation was echoed when Billy Ray congratulated Miley and Beyoncé for their Grammy win in February 2025, suggesting a thaw in relations prior to the engagement news.
With the engagement now confirmed and public blessings given, it appears the Cyrus family is focusing on celebration and the future, marking a hopeful new chapter for the global superstar and her father.
