Dolly Parton, the Queen of Country music, has died at the age of 80 following a “brief battle” with cancer, her representative confirmed.
Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, announced the news of her death on behalf of the family on Tuesday, saying, “Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus.”
Later Tuesday, a rep for Parton said, “After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones,” in a statement to CNN and People.
Fans and friends from around the world are paying tribute to the legendary singer, known for her hits “9 to 5” and “Jolene.”
Fellow country singer Reba McEntire wrote in part on X, “Dolly, thank you for all the wonderful things you did for us here on earth. Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart. There will never ever be another you.”
Taylor Swift was among those remembering Parton, describing her as “the gift that kept on giving” and saying her legacy would be “an everlasting one”.
Donald Trump ordered flags to fly at half-staff in the US to honor Parton, writing on Truth Social: “This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will.”
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Dolly Parton dead at 80
- Dolly Parton death: Beloved Queen of Country who sang ‘Jolene’ and ‘9 to 5’, dies aged 80
- Dolly Parton faced 'brief battle' with cancer: rep
- Donald Trump orders flags to be lowered in honor of Dolly Parton
- Taylor Swift pays tribute to Dolly Parton: ‘Her legacy will be an everlasting one’
- Beyoncé pays tribute to Cowboy Carter collaborator: 'You were the barometer'
‘Rest easy, Dolly’: Don King pays tribute to Dolly Parton
05:40 , Shahana YasminBoxing promoter Don King has paid tribute to Dolly Parton, describing the country music icon as a “dear friend” following her death at 80.
“I love Dolly Parton. She was a dear friend. She’d be greatly missed here on earth, but she’d be eternally remembered spiritually,” King said. He ended his message: “Rest easy, Dolly, and keep a light in the window for me.”
King, 95, is one of boxing’s most famous and controversial promoters, having staged major fights including Muhammad Ali’s “Rumble in the Jungle” and “Thrilla in Manila”.
Filmmaker Morgan J Freeman praises Dolly Parton’s legacy of ‘kindness’ and giving
05:30 , Shahana YasminFilmmaker and television producer Morgan J Freeman has remembered Dolly Parton as someone who believed in bringing people together rather than dividing them along political lines.
“Dolly Parton never wanted us fighting over whether she was red or blue. She wanted us to ALL be Americans,” Freeman wrote.
Dolly Parton never wanted us fighting over whether she was red or blue. She wanted us to ALL be Americans.
— Morgan J. Freeman (@mjfree) August 25, 2026
And she showed us what she believed in:
- Kids should have books.
- People struggling deserve help.
- Everyone deserves dignity.
- Success means giving something back.
-… pic.twitter.com/CBECk7GrIx
He pointed to the causes that defined much of Parton’s work, including children’s literacy and helping people in need. “Success means giving something back,” he wrote, adding: “Kindness doesn't require a party affiliation.”
Freeman, who directed Hurricane Streets and has produced television shows including Laguna Beach and Teen Mom, ended by urging people to honour Parton by creating a society that is “Kinder. More generous. Less judgmental. And looking out for one another.”
Joan Jett remembers Dolly Parton as ‘a musical genius’
05:20 , Shahana YasminJoan Jett has paid tribute to Dolly Parton, describing the country icon as “a one of a kind, altruistic, down to earth, musical genius”.
“Working with her was one of the highlights of my career,” Jett wrote in a tribute shared on social media.
The pair worked together on Parton’s 2023 rock album Rockstar, with Parton covering Joan Jett & the Blackhearts’ 1988 hit “I Hate Myself for Loving You”. Jett joined Parton on vocals for the track, which appeared on Parton’s first full-length rock album.
‘The work ahead has never felt more meaningful’: Dolly Parton’s literacy programme pays tribute
05:10 , Shahana YasminDolly Parton’s Imagination Library has vowed to continue the singer’s work following her death, saying her vision was always to build something that would “last for generations”.
It recalled how proud Parton was of the programme, particularly because of its connection to her father, quoting her as saying: “My Daddy told me the Imagination Library was probably the most important thing I had ever done.”
Our team, our local program partners, and every operational partner who helps make this program possible each month are heartbroken at the loss of our founder, Dolly Parton. (cont.) pic.twitter.com/xXys7ejAKQ
In a statement, the organisation said: “The world grieves with us today. And yet we find ourselves just as certain about what comes next. For decades, Dolly & the team at The Dollywood Foundation – home of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library – worked to build something that would last for generations. So it will.
"The work ahead has never felt more meaningful, and we will carry it forward as she lifts us all up. Dolly, we will always love you.”
Parton launched the Imagination Library in 1995 in her home county of Sevier County, Tennessee, inspired by her father’s inability to read or write. The programme sends one free, age-appropriate book every month to children from birth to five, regardless of family income. It has since expanded across the US, Canada, UK, Australia and Ireland, gifting millions of books each month.
‘One of the greatest talents’: Lloyd Webber mourns Dolly Parton
05:00 , Shahana YasminComposer Andrew Lloyd Webber has paid tribute to Dolly Parton, recalling the “incredibly special” time they spent together discussing songwriting.
“Farewell dear Dolly,” Lloyd Webber wrote on X. “I’ll never forget the incredibly special time we spent in your trailer talking about songwriting. You were one of the greatest talents I’ve had the privilege of meeting. A great melodist and undisputed queen of storytelling songs.”
Farewell dear Dolly. pic.twitter.com/EHtRRlYnaV
— Andrew Lloyd Webber (@OfficialALW) August 25, 2026
Parton and Lloyd Webber were among the five recipients of the 2006 Kennedy Center Honors, which recognised their contributions to American culture. They attended the Washington ceremony together, where Parton was honoured for her work as a singer, songwriter and performer, while Lloyd Webber was recognised for his musical theatre career.
‘Her legacy will be an everlasting one’: Taylor Swift pays tribute to Dolly Parton
04:50 , Shahana YasminTaylor Swift has paid tribute to Dolly Parton, describing her as “the gift that kept on giving”.
“A world without Dolly doesn’t feel possible, real, or right,” Swift told The Hollywood Reporter. “But because of the eternally generous way she spent her time on this earth and the countless lives she changed for the better, her legacy will be an everlasting one.”
She praised Parton for encouraging people to be themselves while sharing her lessons “gently and honestly, simultaneously, and oftentimes hilariously”.
“She managed to give the world the ultimate mystery and fantasy in some corners of her life, but to give full transparency in the ways that counted. Somehow she was true grace and true grit, all in one dazzling person. She possessed the softest heart when it came to the struggles of others, and a backbone of steel to defend her own self worth as an artist” Swift said.
Swift also highlighted Parton’s songwriting and philanthropy, including the millions of books distributed through her Imagination Library. “She was truly grace and true grit, all in one dazzling person,” Swift wrote.
She ended her tribute: “For the tightropes she walked so that young girls like me could grow up dreaming of joining the circus too. Dolly, I’ll think of you each step of the way.”
Linda Ronstadt on friend Dolly: 'The world is a poorer place without her'
04:50 , Rachel Dobkin
Linda Ronstadt has paid tribute to her friend Dolly Parton.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend, Dolly Parton. One of the most extraordinary musical experiences of my life was recording with her. The world is a poorer place without her,” she wrote on Facebook.
Grand Ole Opry honors Dolly
04:37 , Rachel Dobkin
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we say goodbye to a true country music icon, Opry member Dolly Parton.
“There is no doubt Dolly’s mark on the world, and on us here at the Grand Ole Opry, will be deeply felt for generations to come. She taught us to always lead with kindness, generosity, and compassion. May her legacy live on through her songs, the lives she touched, and the countless artists she inspired. There will never, ever be another one like her.
“We will always love you, Dolly,” the legendary Nashville music venue wrote on X.
Meghan McCain on Dolly: ‘Singular in her impact, love, talent, music, kindness, passion and strength’
04:21 , Rachel Dobkin
“Dolly Parton was an absolute American icon and legend. Singular in her impact, love, talent, music, kindness, passion and strength. There never was nor ever will be another like her,” the conservative figure wrote on X.
“There are almost no words to express what a loss this is for America, she was one of the few people who had the ability to unite and truly bring everyone together through her music art, light and spirit.
“On a personal note she is hands down the kindest, warmest, friendliest celebrity I had the pleasure of ever meeting. When people ask me the highlight of working at The View, I always say meeting Dolly Parton.
“Her famous quote ~ “The way I see it if you want the rainbow, you’ve got to put up with the rain” has helped me through many tough moments and grief in life.
“I am deeply saddened by this news just being a huge fan. We love you forever Dolly.”
‘The work ahead has never felt more meaningful’: Dolly Parton’s literacy programme pays tribute
04:10 , Shahana YasminDolly Parton’s Imagination Library has vowed to continue the singer’s work following her death, saying her vision was always to build something that would “last for generations”.
It recalled how proud Parton was of the programme, particularly because of its connection to her father, quoting her as saying: “My Daddy told me the Imagination Library was probably the most important thing I had ever done.”
Our team, our local program partners, and every operational partner who helps make this program possible each month are heartbroken at the loss of our founder, Dolly Parton. (cont.) pic.twitter.com/xXys7ejAKQ
— Imagination Library (@dollyslibrary) August 25, 2026
In a statement, the organisation said: “The world grieves with us today. And yet we find ourselves just as certain about what comes next. For decades, Dolly & the team at The Dollywood Foundation – home of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library – worked to build something that would last for generations. So it will.
"The work ahead has never felt more meaningful, and we will carry it forward as she lifts us all up. Dolly, we will always love you.”
Parton launched the Imagination Library in 1995 in her home county of Sevier County, Tennessee, inspired by her father’s inability to read or write. The programme sends one free, age-appropriate book every month to children from birth to five, regardless of family income. It has since expanded across the US, Canada, UK, Australia and Ireland, gifting millions of books each month.
Full story: Country legend dies aged 80 after a brief battle with cancer
04:08 , Jacob Stolworthy & Kevin E G PerryDolly Parton, who was born in a two-room log cabin and rose to become the world’s wealthiest country music star with timeless hits including “9 to 5” and “Jolene,” has died aged 80 after a “brief battle with cancer.”
Her death was announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, in an Instagram video posted Tuesday afternoon. The musician’s publicist confirmed Parton’s cancer diagnosis to the Associated Press later in the day, but did not give further details on her illness.
“Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand,” the statement from her reps to People magazine read.
“Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact. After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones.”
Read on...
Dolly Parton dies aged 80 after a brief battle with cancer
Sesame Street honors Dolly for her dedication to children's literacy
03:59 , Rachel Dobkin“Sesame Workshop mourns the passing of Dolly Parton, whose music and kindness inspired Polly Darton, a character featured on Sesame Street throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
“Dolly Parton was not only a musician, but a philanthropist dedicated to children's literacy. Sesame Workshop is forever grateful for her dedication to children's literacy and education,” the children’s TV show wrote on X.
Pete Buttigieg honors the Queen of Country
03:46 , Rachel Dobkin
“There will not be another like the Queen of Country, Dolly Parton. Her music spoke to millions across generations, including in our family,” the prominent Democrat wrote on X.
“And America is a better place because the inspiring and unifying example she set with her spirit of generosity and belonging will endure far into the future, just like her timeless music.”
Country singer Ella Langley: 'You paved the way for so many to be brave'
03:31 , Rachel Dobkin
“Dolly, thank you for standing up for yourself as an artist, a songwriter, a musician, a producer, an author, a creative, and most importantly a woman in this industry.
“You paved the way for so many to be brave. Thank you for being unaffriad [sic] to show your most authentic self.
“The world needed Dolly and will never see another like it. The gates of heaven just welcomed home a beautiful soul,” Langley wrote on an Instagram Story.
Gavin Newsom: Dolly was ‘larger than life’
03:17 , Rachel Dobkin
“Dolly Parton was larger than life,” the California governor wrote on X.
“She was a phenomenal talent, a prolific singer-songwriter, and even after becoming the best-selling female country music artist of all time, she never forgot where she came from.
“She cared deeply about early literacy and spreading a love of reading to millions of children around the world — including tens of thousands right here in California.
“The world will be less sparkly without Dolly, but the joy she brought us and the stories she shared will shine on for generations.”
Trisha Yearwood honors Dolly
03:01 , Rachel Dobkin
“There aren’t words to describe what you mean to the world, Dolly,” Yearwood wrote on X.
“What I do know is that you have always been a light, and now you are shining brighter than we can imagine. Our job now is to keep that light alive. WWDD? Love one another. You walked the walk. To say your energy in this life will be missed is an understatement. We will always love you.”
John Mellencamp honors Dolly
02:47 , Rachel Dobkin“A legend and a true humanitarian. Rest in peace, Dolly,” Mellencamp wrote on X, alongside a heartwarming photo of the two.
A legend and a true humanitarian. Rest in peace, Dolly pic.twitter.com/7lAGC56p0e
Country star Randy Travis honors longtime friend: 'There will never be another you, Dolly'
02:38 , Rachel Dobkin“I’ve been blessed to know many wonderful folks throughout my career in country music; but, none quite like you, Dolly. You had a way of making everyone around you feel most important. Your kindness was genuine, your faith strong, your humor lit up a room, and that beautiful heart of yours was even bigger than the remarkable voice the world fell in love with.
“I’ll always be grateful for the memories, the conversations, the laughs, and the goodness you showed me through the years—especially during the chapters of my life when your encouragement meant more than you probably ever knew,” Randy Travis wrote on Facebook.
“You gave country music some of its sweetest memories and most iconic songs; but, you gave the world something greater…yourself. And, you gave it all! Now, it’s your turn to dance with Carl—
“Thank you for showing all of us how to carry success with grace and how to use the gifts God gave us to bless others. Your mission to make people happy and lift them up while glorifying God, is complete. You have planted so many trees under whose shade you will never sit… you have made this world a better place. There will never be another you, Dolly,” he added.
MLB teams play Dolly Parton's music during tonight's games
02:12 , Rachel DobkinSeveral MLB teams are paying tribute to Dolly Parton at tonight's games by playing the late country star’s music.
Songs such as Parton’s hit “9 to 5” were played at the Atlanta Braves vs. Los Angeles Dodgers game, the New York Mets vs. Milwaukee Brewers game and the Washington Nationals vs. Colorado Rockies game.
“Braves honoring Dolly Parton with her music between innings. ‘Jolene’ and ‘9 to 5’ among selections thus far. A true American hero,” Ken Sugiura, a sports columnist for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, wrote on X.
Sportswriter Joe Pantorno wrote, “Nice touch by the #Mets playing Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 as the players take the field.”
“Classy move by the @Nationals at tonight’s game: the Crowd Karaoke was 9 to 5. RIP, @DollyParton,” Michael Townsend, a political analyst for Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., wrote.
Beyoncé pays tribute to Cowboy Carter collaborator: 'You were the barometer'
02:03 , Rachel Dobkin
Music legend Beyoncé has paid tribute to Dolly Parton, with whom she collaborated on her 2024 Cowboy Carter album.
“You were the barometer. The north star. Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious,” Beyoncé wrote on her website.
“You taught so many lessons on how to be uniquely oneself. I am grateful for your art, your heart, your generosity, your humor, your entrepreneurship. I’m honored that I had the privilege to work with you. I will treasure that forever.
“Thank you for your profound impact on the world. You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art. You are truly one of one. Rest peacefully,” the singer added.
Jason Aldean: ‘Thank you for the contributions you made’
01:42 , Rachel Dobkin
“Sad to hear of the passing of @DollyParton today. The term ‘legend’ gets thrown around a lot these days but she really was. An icon to the entire entertainment industry, especially the Country Music family.
“I had the privilege being around her a few times over the years and she was truly a bright light that shined just a little brighter than anyone else in the room. It’s always sad when one of our heroes passes away, but the beauty in music is that her art will live on forever.
“Rest easy Dolly and thank you for the contributions you made and the doors you kicked down for all of us that came after you,” the country star wrote on X.
Mötley Crüe pays tribute to Dolly
01:27 , Rachel Dobkin
“Working with Dolly on ‘Home Sweet Home’ was one of the true highlights of our career. We can still hear her voice saying, “Well, how about that, Dolly and Mötley at #1?”
“Thank you for the music, the laughter, the kindness and the inspiration, Dolly.
“Our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and fans around the world.
“With love and respect, Mötley Crüe,” the hard rock band wrote on X.
Country star Luke Bryan honors Dolly Parton
01:15 , Rachel Dobkin
“Her light, being a strong Tennessee woman, songwriting, charisma, wittiness, and the ability to make fun of herself and the ability to inspire the world is what I think about when I think of Dolly,” Bryan wrote on X.
“When you live your life and people can recognize you by one name, Dolly, I think that says it all. Rest in peace Dolly.”
Dolly Parton faced 'brief battle' with cancer: rep
01:04 , Rachel DobkinDolly Parton died Tuesday following a “brief battle” with cancer, her representative has confirmed to CNN and People. It’s unclear what type of cancer she had.
Read the statement here:
“Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand.”
“Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact.
“After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones.”
Al Gore: ‘I’m especially grateful’
Wednesday 26 August 2026 00:42 , Kevin Perry
Former Vice President Al Gore wrote on X: “In one of her many memorable hit songs, Dolly Parton famously sang about a ‘9 to 5’ job that was ‘all taking and no giving.’
“So, in looking back on her amazing legacy, it's fitting to remember her for all her giving to others throughout her life: all the joy she gave us all with her incredibly beautiful songwriting, her captivating voice, and her endless creative pursuits. The 300 million free books she gave to children across America and around the world through her Imagination Library. All the fun she gave to families who visited Dollywood. The crucial funding and support she gave for medical research into pediatric cancer, infectious diseases, and not least, the Moderna COVID vaccine.
“She gave funding to provide shelter and food for the victims of disasters. I’m especially grateful for all that she gave back to our beloved home state of Tennessee. For many, her lasting gift is the inspiration to give back to our own communities with the same passion, humor, and conviction as Dolly. God bless her and may she rest in peace. We will always love her!”
In one of her many memorable hit songs, Dolly Parton famously sang about a “9 to 5” job that was “all taking and no giving.” So, in looking back on her amazing legacy, it's fitting to remember her for all her giving to others throughout her life: all the joy she gave us all with…
— Al Gore (@algore) August 25, 2026
Dolly Parton’s Dollywood fate revealed after Queen of Country’s death
Wednesday 26 August 2026 00:38 , Kevin PerryThe show must go on. That’s the motto that Dolly Parton’s namesake theme park is abiding by in the wake of the country music legend’s death.
Read more here:
Dolly Parton’s Dollywood fate revealed after Queen of Country’s death
Former Simpsons showrunner remembers Dolly as 'naturally funny'
Wednesday 26 August 2026 00:33 , Kevin PerryAmong her many film and television appearances, Parton made a cameo as herself on the 1999 The Simpsons episode “Sunday, Cruddy Sunday”, which was set at the Super Bowl.
On X, former showrunner Mike Scully wrote: “She was a delight to direct & so naturally funny. She loved the joke about her make-up remover being strong enough to blow open a jailhouse door. I had her do a few extra unnecessary takes just to make the experience last a little longer. Brightened the day of all in room.”
She was a delight to direct & so naturally funny. She loved the joke about her make-up remover being strong enough to blow open a jailhouse door. I had her do a few extra unnecessary takes just to make the experience last a little longer. Brightened the day of all in room. https://t.co/Hm4EUKqTuH
— Mike Scully (@scullymike) August 25, 2026
Jimmy Fallon pays tribute to Dolly Parton: ‘Beautiful. Magical. Dreamy’
Wednesday 26 August 2026 00:26 , Kevin Perry
“I was lucky enough to know and work with the one and only Dolly Parton. She was a phenomenal guest on the show; always funny and always made everyone she met feel like a million dollars,” late night host Fallon wrote on X.
“We did duets together, laughed together and danced through Dollywood in the Smoky Mountains of Pigeon Forge. And even though we did all that, I would still get butterflies just being in her presence. And that’s kind of what I think of when I think of Dolly. She’s a butterfly. Beautiful. Magical. Dreamy. And like most butterflies, they stay for a moment - captivate you, fascinate you, mesmerize you and then fly away far too soon.
“I love you Dolly. I will always miss you.”
I was lucky enough to know and work with the one and only Dolly Parton. She was a phenomenal guest on the show; always funny and always made everyone she met feel like a million dollars. We did duets together, laughed together and danced through Dollywood in the Smoky Mountains… pic.twitter.com/tPGEzfYpCz
— Jimmy Fallon (@jimmyfallon) August 25, 2026
Shania Twain honors Dolly Parton: ‘Pure light sent from heaven’
Wednesday 26 August 2026 00:24 , Kevin Perry
“Dolly was pure light sent from heaven. My mentor is gone. My songwriting teacher and hero of grace and humility,” country singer Twain wrote.
“There is a hole in my heart but the joy of just the thought of her smile will continue to fill me with inspiration for as long as I live. I will cherish this moment performing Coat Of Many Colors with Dolly forever. Goodbye Dolly. Rest in peace, beautiful angel.”
Dolly was pure light sent from heaven. My mentor is gone. My songwriting teacher and hero of grace and humility. There is a hole in my heart but the joy of just the thought of her smile will continue to fill me with inspiration for as long as I live. I will cherish this moment… pic.twitter.com/x2noNjLgou
— Shania Twain 💎💎💎 (@ShaniaTwain) August 25, 2026
Paul McCartney pays tribute to 'magnificent', 'wonderful' Dolly
Wednesday 26 August 2026 00:22 , Kevin Perry-d1bbe4e6.jpeg)
Beatles star Paul McCartney posted a thoughtful tribute to Parton, writing on social media:
“The magnificent star Dolly Parton has died and it is so sad. She was such a wonderful woman. I first met her in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry where she had been playing with the country star Porter Wagoner and was about to start her solo career. She was so bubbly and full of life it is difficult to take in the news that she has passed. Her songwriting, her singing and her philanthropy were unrivaled in the world of country music and it is hard to imagine living in a world without Dolly. She was a very clever business woman who understood the value of her music and, most importantly, the effect that she had on the people of the world. There was no greater honour for me than to have her sing my song ‘Let It Be’ and, even though I only made a small contribution to it, I am so honoured that she did it. I am so proud to have known her and admire her unique talents.”
Ben Stiller shares memory of Dolly appearing on SNL
Wednesday 26 August 2026 00:09 , Kevin Perry
In memory of Parton, Ben Stiller recalled working with the singer while still a fledgling performer on Saturday Night Live.
The Zoolander star wrote: “Dolly Parton memory: her being incredibly nice and cool to EVERYONE when i was on SNL in 1988 as a featured player/apprentice writer and wrote a sketch for her and me that bombed at readthrough and she totally sold it as it bombed and was so kind about it and I never met her again but always wanted to thank her for being so cool and making me and everyone feel special. What an icon, and for so long. A person who emanated goodness, and of course, a brilliant songwriter and performer. Sending love to her family and friends.”
Sabrina Carpenter says she and Dolly could have been 'sisters'
Tuesday 25 August 2026 23:59 , Kevin Perry
One of Parton’s final collaborations was on a duet version of Sabrina Carpenter’s “Please Please Please”.
The pop star recalled their first meeting on Instagram, writing:
“oh dolly 💔 the only thing i could say after we first met was ‘she really is an angel walking the earth’ and ‘we look like we could be sisters!’ i will cherish our laughter and conversations and i will keep your wisdom, your playful outlook on life, and perfect sense of humor in my pocket for the rainy days. there will never be another you and how lucky are we all to have experienced your singular magic as well as your once in a lifetime voice, songs, and heart. your light will be something the world will search forever to find again 🦋🦋🦋 i will always love you.”
Obama says few will have 'bigger impact than Dolly Parton'
Tuesday 25 August 2026 23:36 , Kevin Perry
Former President Barack Obama is among the many to pay tribute to Parton, writing on X:
“It’s hard to imagine many people having a bigger impact than Dolly Parton. Born in a one-room cabin, she earned 11 Grammys and an Emmy, built a business empire, helped millions of kids learn to read, and — as if that wasn’t enough — helped accelerate the research that led to the Moderna COVID vaccine. What a life. Michelle and I are thinking of Dolly’s family and her many, many fans.”
J.K. Rowling highlights Dolly's contribution to child literacy
Tuesday 25 August 2026 23:33 , Kevin Perry
The Harry Potter creator took the time to point out Parton’s philanthropic work, on top of her music.
She wrote on X: “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library was the best contribution to child literacy ever made by a celebrity. Our paths crossed once, in the 90s, backstage at a talk show, and I was completely tongue-tied and starstruck. RIP Dolly. You were a complete, irreplaceable one-off.”
Blake Shelton: ‘Truly a loss for the entire world’
Tuesday 25 August 2026 23:28 , Kevin Perry
“I can say with absolute certainty that we are all feeling the same heart brokenness today,” the country singer wrote in a post on X.
“I only got to spend any real time with Dolly when Gwen and I got to work with her on The Voice. I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is. It was like being with the funnest, most loving, most caring and closest member of your family. Truly a loss for the entire world. We love you Dolly.”
I can say with absolute certainty that we are all feeling the same heart brokenness today. I only got to spend any real time with Dolly when Gwen and I got to work with her on The Voice. I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is. It was like… pic.twitter.com/9ycD4lSpO9
— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) August 25, 2026
Barbara Eden says there’s ‘a void in the heart of Americana’
Tuesday 25 August 2026 23:23 , Kevin Perry
The I Dream of Jeannie star honored Parton in a heartfelt message on X.
“I know I speak for many when I state that there is now a void in the heart of Americana... no, the whole world, that may never be filled,” Eden wrote.
“Dolly, words cannot define the enormity of your talent, the breadth of your kindness, the depth of your compassion and the expanse in which your legend will carry on in perpetuity.
“It was an honor and privilege to have met you at the Country Music Awards. I knew then as so many others have said; you were not only someone whose smile and presence were larger than life, your heart was even larger.
“I lift my eyes upward and know that while you've left us here, you're singing amongst the angels, assuredly giving the host of Heaven a run for their money.”
I know I speak for many when I state that there is now a void in the heart of Americana... no, the whole world, that may never be filled.
— Barbara Eden (@Barbara_Eden) August 25, 2026
Dolly, words cannot define the enormity of your talent, the breadth of your kindness, the depth of your compassion and the expanse in which… pic.twitter.com/plYayS9xlT
Trump orders flags at half mast to honor Dolly
Tuesday 25 August 2026 23:21 , Kevin PerryIvanka Trump shares tribute to ‘true original’
Tuesday 25 August 2026 23:20 , Kevin Perry
The daughter of President Donald Trump paid respects to the late Dolly Parton on X.
“A couple years ago on @lexfridman podcast I cited a piece of wisdom from @DollyParton that has resonated within me since I first heard it. ‘I don't criticize and condemn; I love and accept,’” Trump wrote.
“That quote, like so much of what made Dolly Parton an American icon, was deceptively simple — uncomplicated on its face but profound and deeply moving beneath the surface.
“Goodbye to a bright light. A peerless singer, incredible songwriter, gifted comic actress, tireless philanthropist, accomplished businesswoman and true original. We never met but I adored and admired Dolly greatly.”
A couple years ago on @lexfridman podcast I cited a piece of wisdom from @DollyParton that has resonated within me since I first heard it. "I don't criticize and condemn; I love and accept."
— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) August 25, 2026
That quote, like so much of what made Dolly Parton an American icon, was deceptively…
Jack White offers two-word tribute
Tuesday 25 August 2026 23:18 , Kevin Perry
Jack White, who once covered “Jolene” with his band the White Stripes, kept his tribute short and succinct.
“Instant Sainthood,” wrote the musician on social media, alongside a vintage photograph.
Kamala Harris honors ‘true American icon’
Tuesday 25 August 2026 23:15 , Kevin Perry
In a statement on X, Harris wrote: “Dolly Parton was a true American icon. First introduced to the world as a ‘little girl from up in East Tennessee,’ she became a global superstar.
“Her career accolades included 11 Grammy awards, an Emmy, an honorary Oscar, and — my favorite — more than 300 million books sent to millions of children around the world through her Imagination Library. All at once she was kind, modest, and funny. With her music, her philanthropy, and her style, Dolly was one of one.
“Doug and I send our prayers to her family, friends, and all those who have been touched by her magic. We will always love you, Dolly.”
Dolly Parton was a true American icon. First introduced to the world as a "little girl from up in East Tennessee," she became a global superstar.
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) August 25, 2026
Her career accolades included 11 Grammy awards, an Emmy, an honorary Oscar, and — my favorite — more than 300 million books sent to… pic.twitter.com/cxLpUYSiih
Family of Loretta Lynn pay tribute to Dolly
Tuesday 25 August 2026 23:13 , Kevin Perry
Lynn’s family honored Dolly Parton with a montage of photos and a statement on X.
“Our whole family is devastated to hear of Dolly’s passing. Dolly was an icon, a legend, a world unto herself. But even more, she was mom’s friend. She was her ‘mountain sister,’” they wrote on behalf of Lynn, who died in 2022.
“They understood each other. Our hearts go out to all of Dolly’s family and team. We take comfort in knowing the Honky Tonk Angels are together again and that one day, we will hear them live again. Sending our love, The Lynn Family”
Our whole family is devastated to hear of Dolly’s passing. Dolly was an icon, a legend, a world unto herself. But even more, she was mom’s friend. She was her “mountain sister”. They understood each other. Our hearts go out to all of Dolly’s family and team. We take comfort in… pic.twitter.com/78Q4H7yeW6
— Loretta Lynn (@LorettaLynn) August 25, 2026
