Title: David Furnish, Elton John’s Husband, Says He Feels ‘Protective’ of Elizabeth Hurley Amid Her Shocking Romance with Billy Ray Cyrus

Elizabeth Hurley’s Close Friends Support Her New Romance with Billy Ray Cyrus
[Image: Elizabeth Hurley and Billy Ray Cyrus sharing a kiss]

Elizabeth Hurley, 59, has won the approval of her longtime friends David Furnish and Sir Elton John amid her budding romance with country singer Billy Ray Cyrus, 63. David, 62, admitted feeling “protective” of the actress but expressed confidence in her happiness, telling Hello!: “She’s very happy… I wish her all the best. She’s a really good judge of character.”

Decades-Long Friendship
David and Elton, 78—godparents to Elizabeth’s son Damian, 23—have been close to the star for over 30 years. Elton famously delivered a heartfelt speech at her 2007 wedding, calling her his “daughter.” Hurley once praised David as a “brilliant father, husband, and loyal friend” in a birthday tribute.

[Image: David Furnish and Elton John at a recent event]

Unexpected Romance Blossoms
The pair reconnected after meeting on the set of their 2022 film Christmas in Paradise. Their relationship went public in April 2024, just months after Billy Ray’s divorce from Firerose, whom he married in 2023. The singer described Elizabeth as a lifeline during his struggles: “A friend reached out… It was Elizabeth Hurley. We laughed, and I wasn’t laughing a lot then.”

[Image: Billy Ray Cyrus and Elizabeth Hurley on the Christmas in Paradise set]

Family Support and Fan Reactions
Elizabeth’s son Damian endorsed the relationship, commenting “Awwww ❤️” on her social media post of the couple kissing. Fans were surprised by the pairing, dubbing them an “unexpected couple,” though many celebrated their joy.

Billy Ray’s New Chapter
The singer, who finalized his divorce in August 2023, gushed about Elizabeth: “She’s a great human being… like Dolly Parton—smart and compassionate.” He also praised her bond with Damian, hoping to mend his own strained relationships with children, including Miley Cyrus.

[Image: Billy Ray Cyrus performing on stage]

Looking Ahead
Despite their different backgrounds, the couple shares a “special connection,” with sources noting they enjoy quiet time at Billy Ray’s Tennessee farm. Elizabeth plans a low-key 60th birthday celebration, though it’s unclear if he’ll attend.

[Image: Elizabeth Hurley and son Damian at a public event]

As the romance unfolds, Hurley’s inner circle remains cautiously optimistic, trusting her judgment. For now, the duo seems focused on their newfound happiness, with Billy Ray declaring, “It’s been a long time since I’ve been this happy.”

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