Joe Don Rooney, known for his role as the guitarist in the iconic country band Rascal Flatts, recently broke his social media silence to address his prolonged absence from the spotlight and put to rest unfounded rumors surrounding his gender identity.
In a heartfelt message shared on Wednesday, Rooney assured his fans, “I’m sorry it’s been a while since I’ve posted. It’s actually been a couple of years since I’ve engaged with fans and friends on Twitter (now X) or Instagram. But I figured today, at the beginning of this brand new year 2024, would be a good day to send a message out to the world.”
Addressing the speculations that had circulated, he stated emphatically, “First off, I am alive! There have been so many rumors and opinions thrown around about me – but I’m finally healthy and ready for the world. And NO, I’m not transitioning to be a woman. That thought has never entered my mind. Nothing against the trans community whatsoever but I needed to set the record straight.”
The origin of the rumor remains unclear, as a representative for the former band did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding its source. Rascal Flatts announced their farewell tour in 2020, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, ultimately leading to the cancellation of all performances.
In 2021, the band’s members, including lead singer Gary LeVox, pianist Jay Demarcus, and Joe Don Rooney, officially disbanded after more than two decades together. The dissolution of the group left a void, with LeVox claiming that Rooney’s departure from the band was a pivotal factor, as he expressed his dissatisfaction with how the group came to an end.
Rooney’s life took a turbulent turn in 2021 when he faced legal issues due to a DUI arrest. Reflecting on this challenging period, he acknowledged, “I ran square into a tree and about killed myself.” He further revealed, “That event led me to treatment for my alcoholism for 4 months in the beautiful mountains of Utah. My life has been changed forever – and I’m grateful for the change. I’ve been sober now for almost 28 months come this Jan 13.”
In a candid admission, Rooney confessed that he had not been the best father, husband, or bandmate during his struggles. His car accident in September 2021, which resulted in a jail sentence (though he was released after two days), served as a wake-up call.
Rooney and his wife, former beauty queen Tiffany Fallon, separated in 2021, finalizing their divorce in the subsequent year. The couple shares three children.
Despite the challenges he faced, Rooney found strength in his recovery journey. He emphasized, “God intervened and helped me to get my life back,” expressing gratitude for the support he received from family, professionals, and newfound friends in his sobriety.
With a fresh outlook on life, Rooney has set healthy boundaries to protect his family and sobriety. He concluded his message by sharing his commitment to reflecting “God’s light of love and grace” onto others and thanked his followers for their love, support, and prayers.
As Joe Don Rooney embarks on 2024, he looks forward to a healthier, happier, and goal-oriented life while leaving behind the tumultuous chapters of the past.
