Dolly Parton, who grew up in a poor but loving family in the mountains of East Tennessee before becoming one of the biggest names in country music, has died at the age of 80. Her family announced the news on Tuesday through a video shared on her Instagram. No details about the cause of her death were provided in the announcement.
Parton’s nephew Brian Seaver shared the emotional news with fans. He said he was speaking on behalf of the Parton and Owens families and described Parton as a beloved aunt, sister, grandmother and great grandmother. Seaver also revealed that Parton had asked him years ago to make the announcement when the time came. He remembered her as someone who lived with love and faith and said he believed she was now reunited with her late husband Carl Dean, her parents and other loved ones.
News of Parton’s death quickly led to an outpouring of tributes from across the entertainment industry. Her passing comes after a difficult period in her personal life. Parton had recently spoken about health problems and said she had been receiving treatment for kidney stones. She had also canceled a Las Vegas performance while focusing on her recovery.
Parton had remained determined to continue working. After the death of her husband Carl Dean in March 2025, she admitted that she was still healing but said she was not ready to stop performing. “Even though I’m still healin’,” Parton told People. “I’m still workin’! You know me — as I’ve often said — I’ve dreamed myself into a corner, and I still have so many things I want to achieve, so I’m gonna keep on working as long as I can to see everything come to life.”
Her career lasted more than six decades and made her a global entertainment icon. Parton sold more than 100 million records and won 11 Grammy Awards. She also found major success in Hollywood with films including 9 to 5, Steel Magnolias and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. She also wrote and performed the famous theme song for 9 to 5.
Beyond music and movies, Parton became a successful businesswoman and built an entertainment empire that included the Dollywood theme park. Her estimated fortune reached around $650 million. She also used her success to help others through the Dollywood Foundation, which supports education and people facing poverty in East Tennessee.
Known for her glamorous appearance, blonde hairstyles and sharp sense of humour, Parton never took herself too seriously. Her famous line, “It costs a lot of money to look this cheap,” became one of the many quotes that reflected her personality.
Parton was also known for her strong Christian faith and her support for the LGBTQ community. She often spoke about accepting others and leaving judgment to God.
Throughout her extraordinary life, Carl Dean remained an important part of her story. The couple married in 1966 and stayed together for nearly six decades. While Parton became a worldwide superstar, Dean preferred to remain away from the spotlight.
From a small town in Tennessee to international fame, Dolly Parton built a career that crossed music, movies, business and charity. Her influence reached generations of fans, ensuring that her music, humour and message of kindness will continue to live on.
