Music

Miley Cyrus gets candid about 'struggling' during emotional Hollywood Bowl comeback

The Wrecking Ball singer admitted performing 'doesn't come as natural' anymore following the heartbreaking loss of her legendary godmother, Dolly Parton.

By GOSSIP.IE Newsdesk, Newsroom·
Illustrative image.
Illustrative image. Credit: Illustration: GOSSIP.IE

Miley Cyrus has worn her heart on her sleeve during her long-awaited return to the stage, admitting to fans that she’s been 'struggling' to find her rhythm again. Performing at the Hollywood Bowl for the first time in four years, the 33-year-old pop powerhouse faced a wave of online critics who claimed she wasn't giving it her all by skipping a few lyrics here and there.

Never one to back down, Miley hit back at the 'clickbait' commentary during her second night in LA. According to reports from Rolling Stone, the star told the crowd: 'I’ve never heard that I don’t put my heart into something.' She went on to make a vulnerable admission, explaining that standing on stage 'is hard for me' and 'does not come as natural as it once did.'

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The emotional weight of the show was compounded by the recent loss of her beloved godmother and country icon, Dolly Parton, who passed away in August at the age of 80. In a touching tribute, Miley recalled seeing Dolly perform at the very same venue, before launching into a tearful rendition of 'Jolene.' According to the Daily Mail, Miley even shared a 'supernatural' moment she experienced backstage, claiming she felt Dolly's presence when the lights in her hallway began to flicker.

The 'Flowers' singer reportedly told the audience that she nearly talked herself out of performing the second night entirely, but her bond with the fans pulled her through. While she’s currently celebrating the release of her tenth album, *Bass Persuades*, sources told the Daily Mail that Miley is now prioritising her sobriety and 'stability' over the gruelling life of a touring artist.

It seems the star is at a crossroads, with insiders suggesting she might even consider a return to acting to show a side of herself 'beyond the Miley Cyrus persona.' For now, she’s made it clear that while she might miss a line or two, her heart is firmly on that stage—especially when she’s singing for Aunt Dolly.

Originally reported by The Mirror — https://www.themirror.com/entertainment/celebrity-news/miley-cyrus-struggling-hollywood-bowl-765432, IBTimes UK — https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/miley-cyrus-hollywood-bowl-comeback-struggles-1728941, The Guardian — https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/aug/25/dolly-parton-country-music-dies-80.

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