Country Music Icon, Dolly Parton, Dies At 80
For six decades, Dolly Parton turned songs about love, hardship and everyday life into a global soundtrack, while using her fame to give back.
The country music icon has died at 80
Parton died peacefully in Nashville, Tennessee, on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, her family announced through her nephew, Bryan Seaver. No cause of death was immediately disclosed
Born on January 19, 1946, in Tennessee, Parton grew up as one of 12 children before building a career that made her one of the world’s best-known entertainers.
She was a songwriter, singer, actress, entrepreneur and philanthropist whose influence stretched far beyond country music.
Her enduring hits included Jolene, 9 to 5, Coat of Many Colors and I Will Always Love You, which became a global phenomenon after Whitney Houston recorded it for The Bodyguard soundtrack.
Parton sold more than 100 million records and won 10 Grammy Awards.
She was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and received both the National Medal of Arts and a Kennedy Center Honor.
Away from the stage, her philanthropic work became another defining part of her legacy.
Her Imagination Library has provided free books to children, while her support for education, medical research and disaster relief touched communities across the United States.
She also founded Dollywood, one of Tennessee’s best-known attractions.
Her death comes 17 months after that of her husband, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025 after almost 60 years of marriage.
Tributes have poured in from entertainers, public figures and fans, remembering Parton for her distinctive voice, sharp humour, generosity and ability to connect with audiences across generations.
From a modest childhood in rural Tennessee to international stardom, Dolly Parton’s story became as memorable as the songs she wrote.
Her music may have made her a country legend, but her generosity helped make her a cultural icon.
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