Country music artist Zach Bryan recently revealed his intention to stop touring, coinciding with serious allegations made by his former partner, Barstool Sports host Brianna “Chickenfry” LaPaglia.
LaPaglia publicly alleged that Bryan engaged in emotional abuse throughout their one-year relationship during an episode of the “BFFs” podcast, which aired the same day Bryan made his announcement.
In a heartfelt message on Instagram, Bryan, aged 28, explained the poignant experience that influenced his decision. While visiting his mother’s gravesite in Oklahoma late at night, he had a moment of clarity regarding his future.
“After being away from home for a year and a half, I visited my mother’s gravestone… and realized, much like before, that she would never call me again,” he shared.
Bryan has announced his decision to pursue a master’s degree in Paris, indicating a significant change from his busy touring lifestyle.
He shared, “I quit touring because I got accepted for my master’s in Paris next year… I spoke to her about relaxing on the porch with my lovely sister, the calluses on my fingers, and my tears,” noted Bryan.
This emotional visit also motivated Bryan to finish a new song, titled “High Road,” which he released soon after. In the song, he openly states, “Everyone keeps telling me that I need help or therapy / But truly, all I need is some alone time.”
Accusations of Abuse Surrounding His Relationship
LaPaglia discussed troubling details about her relationship with Bryan in a recent “BFFs” podcast episode.
She accused the Grammy-winning artist of a “continuous cycle” of emotional abuse, revealing that he even offered her $12 million to keep quiet about their relationship, an offer she turned down.
“He was upset about my sheer dress at the Golden Globes,” claimed LaPaglia, adding that Bryan became furious when she performed a song by Morgan Wallen at his house.
She described Bryan as someone who “emotionally broke” her and caused her to feel “fearful” during their relationship.
While Bryan hasn’t directly responded to these accusations, he did share a thought-provoking quote from Jack Kerouac‘s On the Road: “Everyone in the world seeks an explanation for your actions and your existence.”
Though Bryan has announced plans to stop his touring, he intends to fulfill his existing commitments. His “Quittin’ Time” tour, which started in March, is scheduled to wrap up in December, with extra performances booked in London for June 2025.
Bryan expressed his enthusiasm for the concluding segment of the tour by stating, “I’m more excited than ever to finish up this run… Looking forward to seeing you on the road.”
As Zach Bryan transitions away from touring, he is facing increased scrutiny regarding his personal life. While he is celebrated for his heartfelt songwriting, the emerging allegations are now overshadowing his professional success.
This new phase of his career will likely keep the focus on the dual nature of his image—admired musician and the center of controversy—among fans and critics alike.