Dolly Parton, the iconic queen of country music, has died at 80, her family announced Tuesday.
The singer-songwriter-actress, whose country music success made her a global pop culture icon, died peacefully in Nashville on August 25 at 80.
Her family did not disclose a cause of death.
The news was shared on Dolly’s official Instagram in a video posted by her nephew Bryan Seaver on behalf of the Parton family.
As per the family’s official obituary, “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.”
Parton’s health struggles made headlines in fall 2025 when she announced she could no longer perform her six-show December residency at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
“As many of you know, I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures,” she wrote at the time.
Parton mentioned, “As I joked with them, it must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up, although it’s not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon! In all seriousness, given this, I am not going to be able to rehearse and put together the show that I want you to see, and the show that you deserve to see. You pay good money to see me perform, and I want to be at my best for you.”
She added, “While I’ll still be able to work on all of my projects from here in Nashville, I just need a little time to get show ready, as they say,” she continued. “And don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet. But, I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you. I love you and thank you for understanding.”
On September 30, Parton announced she would miss the November Governors Awards and would not accept the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award remotely due to health concerns.
