Dolly Parton Dies: Singer, Actress & Humanitarian Was 80
Singer, songwriter, producer, businesswoman, and humanitarian Dolly Parton has died at age 80. The country-western artist was best known for her songs “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You,” as well as her career on the silver screen in films such as 1980’s 9 to 5, 1982’s The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, and 1989’s Steel Magnolias. Beyond music and acting, Parton was also a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, building a business empire while giving back through numerous charitable efforts.
Her death was announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, on Parton’s social media on Tuesday (August 25) in a video.
“Sister, sis, and Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next, this video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I realized the reality of it,” he said. “I imagined the heaviness of this moment for years… It is an honor, an honor that is mixed with pride and great sadness.”
In a statement shared by her family, “Global icon and humanitarian, Dolly Parton, known to the world as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright, and author, died peacefully today in Nashville, Tennessee. She was 80 years old… A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family. Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.” The statement indicated that she will have a private service for immediate family, and, in lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to the Imagination Library.
CBS via Getty Images
According to People, reps for Parton confirmed the songstress died after being diagnosed with cancer. “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 a statement given to the publication.
Born Dolly Rebecca Parton on January 19, 1946, in Sevierville, Tennessee, Parton was the fourth of 12 children born to Avie Lee Caroline and Robert Lee Parton Sr. She began her singing career at a young age when she would perform as a child, nabbing her first professional gig at age 13 on The Cas Walker Show.
Her initial success in the music business came as a songwriter. Early in her career, her songs were performed by the likes of Kitty Wells, Bill Phillips, and Hank Williams Jr., to name a few. She didn’t find her own success behind the mic until 1967, when country music host Porter Wagoner invited Parton on his television show as the featured female vocalist. It would eventually become the launchpad for her national career.
Together, Parton and Wagoner recorded a string of successful duets, including “The Last Thing on My Mind,” “Please Don’t Stop Loving Me,” and “Just Someone I Used to Know.” After racking up a string of hits, Parton left Wagnor in 1974, penning “I Will Always Love You” as a farewell to Wagoner and the partnership that helped launch her.
Following her departure, Parton had a string of hit singles, crossing over to mainstream success. In 1978, Parton won a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance for her Here You Come Again album. She also co-hosted several television specials at this time, including 1978’s Fifty Years of Country Music for CBS, 1979’s The Seventies: An Explosion of Country Music for NBC. In 1979, she received an Emmy nomination for her guest spot on a Cher special.
David Becker / Getty Images
Parton made her film acting debut in 1980 opposite Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin in the film 9 to 5. In addition to starring in a hit film, her title song for the film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. It would go on to win two Grammys, one for Best Female Country Vocal Performance and the other for Best Country Song.
In 1982, she starred opposite Burt Reynolds in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, which featured a re-recorded version of “I Will Always Love You.” In 1992, the ballad was re-recorded by Whitney Houston for the film The Bodyguard, where it found a new audience for a new generation.
In 1986, Parton officially opened the theme park Dollywood, transforming the former Silver Dollar City, Tennessee, into a celebration of her East Tennessee roots. The park was created to celebrate the Appalachian culture Parton was so proud of while also creating jobs for her hometown.
In addition to her talents as a songwriter, singer, actress, and entrepreneur, Parton was also a producer. The co-owner of Sandollar Productions with former manager Sandy Gallin, the duo produced the Oscar-winning documentary Common Threads: Stories from the Quilt (1989), as well as the films Father of the Bride (1991) and its sequel, Straight Talk (1992), and the TV sensation Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
Widely hailed for her humanitarian work, Parton has spent her career promoting literacy through her Dollywood Foundation. Her literacy program, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, has mailed over 270 million free books as of early 2025. Earlier, the program celebrated distributing its 200-millionth book.
Backed by her own profits, Parton’s Dollywood Foundation has revitalized a once-depressed area, creating jobs and boosting local tax revenue. Beyond that, she has devoted her time and resources to a wide range of causes, from the American Red Cross to HIV/AIDS charities.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Parton donated $1 million towards research, which funded the development of the Moderna vaccine.
Parton was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Dean, who passed away in March 2025, just two months before the couple would have celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary.
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M
I’m not much of a crier but this hit me hard. She was someone who walked the walk and talked the talk. Beautiful human being. Pure heart. Such a loss for humanity and her family. May she forever be with the love of her life. Every night we listen to her Rockstar album while we’re getting dinner ready. Tonight will be no different. My kids will miss you so much!! Love ya Dolly!
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G
What truly tragic news. She was a true Humanitarian that did so much for so many and did so with so much class. A truly talented human being who will be missed by many
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R
Very sad news. She's a very special lady even though we may have not known her personally. She radiated warm and compassion towards others through her actions and her music. Heaven is gained a very special angel. May she rest in peace.
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C
Very upset & sad..She is a great person & talented & loving... She will be greatly missed by many & the world..My heart goes out to her family, friends & fans..Rest in peace Dolly...🙏🏼🙏🏼😞😭
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A
She now gets to join her partner again for eternity! She was a very talented and kind hearted person! Very sad news!!!
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J
Kenny Rogers?
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S
Truly kind giving talented woman inside and out. The world has lost a beautiful soul.
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B
She was probably the most genuine generous gracious woman on this planet. Beyond the most talented and beautiful inside and out. Her spirit soared not only in her music but everywhere she went in everything she did it seems. I don’t think I’ve heard of a more giving gracious lady ever. She’s someone who anyone could only wish to be like. Really didn’t need all the rhinestones and wigs she wore I saw photos of her before and know she was beautiful on her own. Guess she felt the need to make herself like this so more power to her. Her spirit and personality were what really made her so special. Know I’m going to miss her beautiful vibrant voice but know she’s singing in heaven now with Carl. 💞💞🙏🙏💔
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H
Such a loss of a beautiful soul inside and out. I feel so privileged that I was able to see her in concert. She was funny, gracious and kind. If more people were like her what a wonderful world this would be. 😪💔
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L
August 24, 2026 (dated for context and reference) I'm of the same generation as Ms. Parton, and it seems like she was always a well known favorite of the public as long as I can remember. I've always had the feeling that Ms. Pardon was a gracious, and kind person. Her artistry wasn't aimed at my particular demographic, but I know a lot of people loved her music and style. My sincerest best wishes and condolences to her family, loved ones, friends and fans. RIP Ms. Parton, and may God gather you into his arms.🙏🏻
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S
She died of a broken heart God call her home to soon
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J
You wanna know what's really mind blowing folks? Tim Curry has also passed away on the very same day and age as Dolly.
#wildhuh?
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S
Maybe in the future we can get a biopic with Miley Cyrus playing her grandmother like the way Jaafar Jackson played his uncle so who knows. Although I'm not sure it will surpass Michael but just a thought.
And of course R.I.P Dolly Rebecca Parton Jean (January 19, 1946-August 25, 2026) you are now strumming your guitar with those long acrylic nails with the angels now and forevermore.
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L
Two icons gone, Shelly and Dolly. It always goes in threes. Who will be next?
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M
True.
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