Hannah Montana's Dad Hosts 'Nashville Star'

Zap2It.com | February 28, 2008

Billy Ray Cyrus

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Billy Ray Cyrus tapped for country-music competition

"Nashville Star" has burned through hosts the way Spinal Tap burned through drummers, and the show has tapped yet another new frontman.

Billy Ray Cyrus -- singer, "Dancing with the Stars" contestant and father of "Hannah Montana" -- will become the show's fifth new host in six seasons this summer. "Nashville Star" is also moving from the USA Network to NBC.

Cyrus announced he's joining the show, an "American Idol"-ish competition for aspiring country artists, during an appearance on "The Tonight Show" Wednesday.

"This year it is all about the dream, about the music, about persistence and never giving up faith and putting the music first," Cyrus told Jay Leno, cryptically adding, "You know I've been to the fair and I've seen the bear, and I am really excited."

Daughter Miley Cyrus, who was appearing with her dad on the show, offered no help as to the last comment.

"That is sooo embarrassing. I don't know what that means -- I have no idea," she said as Leno looked to her for assistance. "He does that a lot."

Cyrus takes over hosting duties from singers Jewel and Cowboy Troy, who co-hosted last season. Troy also co-hosted season four with Wynonna Judd; prior to that, Nancy O'Dell (seasons one and two) and LeAnn Rimes (three) served as host. His "Nashville Star" gig will also conveniently coincide with the scheduled release of his next album.