Billy Ray Cyrus & Elizabeth Hurley Go Public with Romance After Years of Friendship

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Love is in the (Island) Air: Billy Ray Cyrus & Elizabeth Hurley Are Officially a Thing

If you thought Easter was just about chocolate eggs and family dinners, think again. This year, it came with a side of romance, sunshine, and a whole lotta unexpected celebrity PDA. Yep, we’re talking about that Instagram post — the one where Achy Breaky Heart crooner Billy Ray Cyrus was caught planting a sweet kiss on none other than British bombshell and actress Elizabeth Hurley.

While fans were left both stunned and swooning, PEOPLE confirmed what we were all low-key suspecting — these two are indeed an item.


Wait, Billy Ray Cyrus and Liz Hurley? For Real?

That’s right. According to a source close to Cyrus, this wasn’t some random fling or Hollywood stunt. These two have history — and not just a few months of it. Their story kicked off back in 2022 while filming Christmas in Paradise, a feel-good holiday movie set on the lush Caribbean island of Nevis. Picture this: ocean breezes, palm trees, holiday lights, and two celebrities sharing screen time with some real-life chemistry brewing behind the scenes.

“They had a great time shooting that movie together,” the insider spills. “The vibe was beautiful, super relaxed — it definitely left a mark on Billy Ray.”

And apparently, it wasn’t just about acting. The film wrapped, but the connection stuck around.


From Co-Stars to Lovebirds

Fast forward to spring 2025 — Liz popped in for an Easter visit, and sparks flew (again). In the Instagram post that caused all the buzz, Billy Ray, decked out with bunny ears (yes, really), kissed Hurley sweetly on the cheek as they leaned against a picket fence. Hurley captioned it simply: "Happy Easter ♥️."

A few celebrity friends and followers reacted in the comments, but what caught even more attention? Her 23-year-old son Damian’s reaction — a single emoji combo: “🥳♥️.” Not over-the-top, not cryptic — just a sweet nod that maybe he’s cool with Mom’s new love interest.

And here’s where it gets even more interesting.


A Musical Tease That Had Fans Talking

Before the kiss heard 'round the internet, Hurley already had fans raising eyebrows. Back on April 9, she posted a sultry photo of herself in a bikini, soaking in a Maldivian sunset — stunning as ever — but it wasn’t just the visuals that had people talking. The soundtrack? Billy Ray’s emotional ballad "She’s Not Cryin’ Anymore." Yep, the classic breakup anthem, turned background music for a sizzling vacay pic.

Oh, and she tagged him too. Bold move? Maybe. But also a cute one.

“The most glorious sunset in the glorious Maldives 💗,” she wrote — and fans were quick to speculate: was this just a vibe… or a soft launch?

Well, now we know.


Life, Love & Second Chances

Both Billy Ray and Liz aren’t exactly new to public relationships. In fact, they’ve each walked through long-term marriages, headline-worthy breakups, and everything in between.

Billy Ray was married to Tish Cyrus for nearly three decades — 28 years to be exact — before they called it quits in April 2022. The former couple co-parented a pretty famous crew too: Miley, Noah, Brandi, Trace, and Braison. He also shares son Christopher Cody with his ex-girlfriend Kristen Luckey.

Shortly after his split from Tish, Billy Ray started dating Australian singer Firerose. Things heated up fast. By September 2022, fans noticed a diamond ring on that finger in one of Firerose’s Instagram pics, and sure enough, he’d popped the question a month prior. They tied the knot in October 2023 — but that love story didn’t have a happy ending. Just seven months in, Billy Ray quietly filed for divorce in May 2024.

So yeah, the man’s been through some stuff.


And What About Liz?

Elizabeth Hurley isn’t exactly a stranger to high-profile romances either. She was famously married to Indian businessman Arun Nayar from 2007 until their split in 2011. Before that, she had a long and very public relationship with actor Hugh Grant, and shares son Damian with the late Steve Bing.

Over the years, she’s kept a relatively low profile when it comes to love — at least compared to the 90s tabloid frenzy she once stirred — but she’s always remained a public favorite thanks to her ageless beauty, cheeky humor, and that timeless charm.

Now, it seems, she’s found someone who matches her vibe — a little country, a little Caribbean, and a lot of heart.


What Makes This Pair So Unexpectedly Perfect?

Let’s break it down:

  • They’ve got history. Not many celebrity couples can say their love story started on a sunny movie set.

  • They’ve both weathered major life changes. Divorce, parenting, heartbreak — they’ve seen it all and came out stronger.

  • They’re fun. Easter bunny ears? Bikini posts with meaningful song choices? They’re clearly not afraid to live a little.

  • They’re not rushing it. Despite all the buzz, their reps have declined to comment — letting their story unfold naturally.

And honestly, that’s kind of refreshing.


So... What’s Next?

As of now, the couple hasn't shared any official plans — no red carpet debut, no wedding bells ringing (yet). But it’s clear something real is brewing. Whether it’s tropical vacations, joint projects, or just some good old-fashioned romance, fans are here for it.

Billy Ray’s living proof that it’s never too late to start over, and Liz — well, she’s still glowing like a goddess and clearly enjoying life on her terms.


Final Thoughts

Celebrity love stories don’t always come with a happy ending, but this one? It’s off to a pretty charming start. Whether it’s the sun-soaked memories from the Caribbean or just the comfort of finding someone who truly gets you, there’s something undeniably sweet about this duo.

From Achy Breaky Heart to healing hearts — Billy Ray’s journey continues, this time with a little extra British sparkle by his side.