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In a plot twist no one saw coming, Liz Hurley and Billy Ray Cyrus have confirmed they’re dating, and social media is reeling from the unexpected coupling. The 58-year-old British model and actress took to Instagram over Easter weekend to post a photo of Billy Ray kissing her on the cheek, captioned simply: “Happy Easter ❤️.” But while fans were quick to express their surprise and support, the reactions from their children have painted a more complex picture.
Damian Hurley, Liz’s 22-year-old son, wasted no time offering his support. Posting a red heart and celebratory emoji in the comments, Damian appeared to give his mum’s new romance his full blessing. The gesture didn’t go unnoticed by fans, many of whom took it as a sign that he’s firmly in his mother’s corner.
However, Billy Ray’s side of the family has remained conspicuously silent, and that silence speaks volumes.
The 62-year-old Achy Breaky Heart singer has long had a complicated relationship with his children, especially in recent years. Earlier this year, his son Trace Cyrus published a heartfelt yet scathing open letter that laid bare the tension within the Cyrus clan. Trace, 35, wrote about the emotional distance between him and his father, describing Billy Ray as a once-idolised figure who had become almost unrecognisable.
“You may be upset with me for posting this but I really could care less at this point,” Trace wrote. “Me and the girls have been genuinely worried about you for years but you've pushed all of us away.”
He added that youngest daughter Noah Cyrus, now 24, has desperately sought a connection with their father: “That’s your baby girl. She deserves better. Somehow, just like me, she still idolizes you though.”
Meanwhile, Miley Cyrus has stayed out of the fray, not commenting publicly on her father’s romance or her brother’s candid letter. The Flowers singer’s relationship with Billy Ray has also appeared strained in recent years, though he did publicly praise both Miley and Noah’s musical success in an emotional Instagram post, writing, “I’m so damn proud of both of you. I’m actually crying as I write this.”
Despite these declarations, the lack of public acknowledgement from any of Billy Ray’s children regarding his new relationship with Liz Hurley has only fuelled speculation about ongoing family discord.
In contrast, Liz and Damian appear united and unbothered. Damian’s enthusiastic emoji response to the Easter reveal suggests he’s either fully supportive, or just taking it all in stride with signature British poise.
As fans adjust to this unlikely celebrity couple, one thing is clear: while Liz and Billy Ray may be finding happiness in each other, the family dynamics behind the scenes are anything but picture perfect.