Billy Ray Cyrus' son has claimed the singer threatened legal action after he expressed concern about his famous father

The former Metro Station frontman wrote on Instagram: "Dad my message was beyond loving.

"I could have been extremely honest about a lot more but I don't want to put your business out there like that.

"But for you to threaten me with legal action for wanting you to get help is a disgrace. Pappy is looking down at you with such disappointment I can assure you. You should be ashamed of yourself.

"I will always love you but I no longer respect you as a man. Everyone close to you is terrified to tell you how they really feel. I'm not. Get help."

Trace had told how he "barely recognises" his father any more and accused him of "pushing away" his children.

He wrote on Instagram: "Since my earliest memories all I can remember is being obsessed with you and thinking you were the coolest person ever.

"I wanted to be just like you. The day you adopted me was the happiest day of my life.

"Sadly the man that I wanted so desperately to be just like I barely recognize now. It seems this world has beaten you down and it's become obvious to everyone but you.

"You may be upset with me for posting this but I really could care less at this point. Me and the girls have been genuinely worried about you for years but you've pushed all of us away.(sic)"

Trace said Noah has "desperately" wanted Billy Ray "to be part of her life", but claimed he hasn't "even been there for her".

He continued: "That's your baby girl. She deserves better. Somehow just like me she still idolizes you though.(sic)"

He said Billy Ray's children were "all hanging on to memories of the man we once knew and hoping for the day he returns."

He added: "You're not healthy Dad everyone is noticing it. Just like I showed up for you at mamaws funeral when you didn't expect me to I'm still here right now.

"As I write this with tears in my eyes I hope you realize this message only comes from a place of love and also fear that the world may lose you far too soon. I love you Dad.(sic)"

But the singer's brother, Braison Cyrus, later claimed Billy Ray was "happy and healthy".

He wrote on his own Instagram Story: "I've spent the last year getting to know my dad better than I ever have.

"After he spent a week in the hospital in the fall, I'm grateful that my dad is happy, healthy and ready to make this record."