Country music superstar Garth Brooks has been a long-time visitor to Florida, with a special affection for the Pittsburgh Pirates, who hold their spring training in Bradenton. That connection ignited rumors when a prime piece of Anna Maria Island real estate sold in 2019, with speculation swirling that Brooks and his wife Trisha Yearwood were the buyers. Let's dive into the facts and the continued buzz surrounding this potential celebrity connection.

The Layby Resort Purchase

In October 2019, the Layby Resort on Holmes Beach, Anna Maria Island, sold for $8.825 million. This beachfront property was a significant purchase, fueling the gossip mill about the buyer's identity. While listing agents were tight-lipped, the connection to Garth Brooks seemed to have some merit. A Nashville-based firm, Coasting LLC, was the buyer, adding credence to the idea of a country music star's involvement.

Demolition and Speculation

In 2021, demolition work began on the former Layby Resort, making way for a new development. This furthered the belief that Brooks and Yearwood were behind the purchase. The property's beachfront location, along with the couple's known love for the Florida lifestyle, made it a plausible scenario.

Fact or Fiction?

Despite the swirling speculation, there has been no official confirmation that Garth Brooks or Trisha Yearwood owns the property on Anna Maria Island. While the circumstantial evidence is intriguing, ultimately the connection remains just a tantalizing rumor that keeps locals and fans alike wondering.

References:

• Rumors Fly That Garth Brooks Bought Anna Maria Resort For $8.8M - Bay News 9
• Contractor begins demolition at Holmes Beach resort - Anna Maria Islander
• Did Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood buy Anna Maria Island hotel? - Bradenton Herald