When the renowned pop artist Miley altered her social media handles by omitting “Cyrus” earlier this week, it sparked widespread speculation. Some pondered if this action was a reflection of her sorrow over the passing of her honorary godmother, Dolly Parton. Others questioned if there had been a rift between her and her well-known father, country music star Billy Ray Cyrus. Alternatively, some speculated whether the change was linked to the imminent release of her upcoming album.
Today, Billy Ray Cyrus took to social media to address the confusion. Sharing a nostalgic photo of himself with his children during their early years on Instagram, he revealed, “I always called my little girl Miley. Just … Miley.” Miley, originally named Destiny Hope Cyrus at birth, earned her moniker as a result of her beaming smiles as a baby. Her father recounted to Ellen DeGeneres that he initially dubbed her “Smiley,” which eventually evolved into “Miley.”
During Miley’s formative years, Billy Ray Cyrus introduced her to the iconic figure in country music, Dolly Parton, whom he had befriended while serving as her opening act during tours. He requested Parton to be Miley’s godmother.
Both father and daughter have publicly expressed their profound grief over the recent passing of Dolly Parton. Turning 65 on the day of Parton’s demise, Billy Ray Cyrus emphasized the significance of family at this moment and endorsed his daughter’s decision to perform under a singular name.
“I told @miley yesterday I felt good about her going with her first name. I mentioned Dolly and Cher. Thinkin’ about it more and more … Elvis … Prince … and so on. It’s a natural progression for an iconic superstar legend,” he shared.
The adjustment in Miley’s name does not seem to signify an official name alteration but rather a strategic rebranding. Her forthcoming tenth studio album, “Bass Persuades,” is scheduled for release on Sept. 18, with two concerts at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles announced for October. “I’ve sat in those seats many times, but I’ve never taken the stage. L.A. is my heart and I’m bringing it home,” Miley expressed on Instagram this week.