Rascal Flatts’ Joe Don Rooney has resurfaced after a tumultuous two years, quelling rumours and sharing the rollercoaster of his life. The 48-year-old star, who’s been relatively low-key lately, faced a life-altering car crash that nearly claimed his life.

Breaking his silence on social media after almost a year, Joe embraced 2024 as the perfect time to set the record straight. “First things first, I’m alive,” he asserted, addressing the swirling speculations. “There have been countless rumours about me, but I’m finally in a good place. And to clarify, no, I’m not transitioning. That idea has never crossed my mind.”

Putting an end to whispers suggesting otherwise, he made it clear that while he has immense respect for the transgender community, those rumours were baseless. Instead, Joe recounted the drastic turn his life took after a harrowing single-car accident in 2021, admitting, “I crashed my vehicle into a tree and nearly lost my life while being under the influence.”

Now in recovery and a member of Alcoholics Anonymous, he acknowledged the grip alcoholism had on him for years, intensifying as time passed. Reflecting on the crash and its aftermath, Joe revealed how it served as a wake-up call, forcing him to confront his errors and the impact they had on his family. “That accident changed everything. It led me to AA, altering my life forever. I’ve been sober for almost 28 months, something I never thought possible.”

Expressing gratitude to God, his family, and his support network, Joe underscored the importance of newfound boundaries and healthier living. “Thank you for the love, support, and prayers. They’ve been felt, and I’m incredibly grateful. Here’s to a better 2024 and embracing our healthiest, happiest, and most goal-driven lives!”

In 2022, Joe faced legal consequences, serving two days of a one-year jail sentence following his DUI charge from the crash. He also lost his driver’s licence. His marriage to Tiffany Fallon, which ended in 2021 after an earlier separation, was finalised last year. Together, they have three children: Jagger, 15, Raquel, 13, and Devon, nine.

Known for his role as Rascal Flatts’ guitarist from 1999 until their 2021 split, Joe Don Rooney’s life journey has been a rollercoaster of personal trials and transformative growth.