Dolly Parton Makes Rare Appearance via Video at Governor’s Awards Amid Health Challenges

Dolly Parton appeared via video at the Academy’s Governor Awards on November 16, 2025, to accept the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award — just two months after she postponed a run of concerts at Las Vegas’ Colosseum at Caesars Palace due to “health challenges.”

In a video filmed at her home in Nashville, the singer, 79, accepted her first Academy Award, declaring herself “blessed” and saying that receiving the recognition for her public service work made her “want to dream up new ways to help lift people up. Isn’t that what we’re supposed to be here for? So from my heart to yours, I truly thank you.”