With her controversial performance at the 2013 VMAs, Miley Cyrus may have proven she's far removed from her 'Hannah Montana' days, but to her Dad Billy Ray Cyrus, she's still his little girl. 

The country singer spoke to ET Online after his daughter's not-so-innocent performance became the talk of the town. He stayed mum about his thoughts on the display itself (which took place on his 52nd birthday), but was very vocal about his love for Miley -- and nothing, not even a skimpy outfit and foam finger, could change that.

"Of course I'll always be here for Miley. Can't wait to see her when she gets home," Cyrus says. "She's still my little girl and I'm still her Dad regardless how this circus we call show business plays out. I love her unconditionally and that will never change."

According to a post on Miley's Twitter page, Papa Cyrus was in full support of her overly sexual MTV performance. "Mile, if twerkin woulda been invented.... And I had a foam finger.... I woulda done the same thang you did. - DAD" the young pop star shared on Wednesday (Aug. 28), presumably quoting something her father said to her.

As it turns out, the country singer's newly-reconciled wife, Tish, may not have been too offended, either. In fact, Miley's manager revealed that the 20-year-old's inner circle -- which included her mom -- was literally cheering for her throughout the number. "We were all cheering from the side of the stage," Larry Rudolph tells People.

As for Miley? "She couldn't have been happier about the performance," Rudolph divulges, saying that the jaw-dropping performance "came from Miley's brain." He adds, "It could not have gone better. The fans all got it. The rest eventually will."

Although her fans may have "gotten it," many expressed confusion over the giant teddy bears, too-small bikini and graphic dancing -- including many country stars, who were open about their criticism of the number.

Needless to say, Daddy's little girl has grown up.

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