Billy Ray Cyrus was Numb During Mileys Scandal
Cyrus opened up about the incident to Piers Morgan, admitting his regret for failing to provide support for his daughter
Billy Ray Cyrus felt powerless to help his daughter Miley after she became embroiled in a bong-smoking scandal last year - because he was suffering from depression and was "numb" to pain.
The teenage sensation hit the headlines in December after she was filmed puffing on a huge pipe allegedly containing hallucinogenic legal high Salvia. At the time, her dad Billy Ray took to Twitter to apologize to Mileys fans and express his disappointment, writing: "Sorry guys. I had no idea. Just saw this stuff for the first time myself. Im so sad. There is much beyond my control right now."
The country singer has now opened up about the incident, admitting his regret for failing to provide support for his daughter. He tells CNN newsman Piers Morgan, "Bong-gate happened in the midst of my darkness, in my darkest hours. By then, I was a bit numb of pain at that time. And realizing that, you know, oh my gosh. As a father, I was alarmed for my daughters safety but at the same time my whole world was crumbling apart beneath my feet anyway so there wasnt a whole lot I could do."
But Billy Ray is full of pride now after watching Miley bounce back from the controversy by throwing herself into her career. He adds, "I think shes well on her way to being the happiest Ive ever seen her. I think shes thriving as an artist right now. She has two movies in the can that shes worked on over the past several months."
Watch the interview clip:
RELATED:
- Top 10 things Miley Cyrus should make fun of herself for on SNL
- WATCH: Miley Cyrus caught on camera with a bong
Photo Copyright Getty Images
