Summary (tl;dr)

Elizabeth Hurley and Billy Ray Cyrus are trending due to their first U.S. red carpet appearance as a couple at the 2025 CMA Awards, while Steve Martin also drew significant attention at the same event for his surprise banjo performance and album promotion.

Essential Background

Billy Ray Cyrus and Elizabeth Hurley made their relationship Instagram official in April 2025 and have been reported to be "going strong" for over six months. This follows Cyrus's third divorce, which was finalized in August 2024. Separately, actor and comedian Steve Martin is widely recognized for his multifaceted talents, including his proficiency as a banjo player. He recently released a collaborative album, "Safe, Sensible and Sane," with Grammy-winning banjoist Alison Brown.

The Full Story

Elizabeth Hurley and Billy Ray Cyrus captivated audiences at the 59th Annual CMA Awards in Nashville, Tennessee, on November 19, 2025, marking their official U.S. red carpet debut as a couple. The pair arrived in eye-catching, coordinated red and black attire and were among the presenters at the prestigious country music event. Reports indicate that their relationship, which began publicly in April, continues to thrive despite initial public skepticism.

Simultaneously, Steve Martin generated buzz at the same CMA Awards ceremony. He made a surprising appearance on stage alongside Alison Brown to present the Album of the Year award. Before announcing the winner, Martin showcased his impressive banjo skills, taking the opportunity to promote his recently released collaborative album.

Why It Matters

The high-profile red carpet debut of Elizabeth Hurley and Billy Ray Cyrus at a major American awards show signals a significant public step in their relationship, particularly noteworthy given Cyrus's recent marital history. Their combined presence at the event, coupled with positive reports about their happiness, has fueled widespread media and public interest in their romance. Steve Martin's unexpected performance at the CMA Awards underscores his diverse artistic talents beyond acting, drawing attention to his musical career and potentially boosting interest in his new album and the bluegrass genre. The convergence of these distinct celebrity narratives at a single, prominent event amplifies their impact, making them prominent topics of discussion and online searches.

Geographic Location

• Bridgestone Arena, Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee, United States (59th Annual CMA Awards ceremony and red carpet appearance of Elizabeth Hurley and Billy Ray Cyrus, and performance by Steve Martin)
• London, England, United Kingdom (National Television Awards appearance of Elizabeth Hurley and Billy Ray Cyrus in September 2025)
• Rome, Lazio, Italy (Red carpet debut of Elizabeth Hurley and Billy Ray Cyrus at Orizzonti/Rosso exhibition opening in May 2025)