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Hollywood is in mourning following the death of country music icon and actress Dolly Parton.
“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,” Parton’s rep said in a statement. “Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion and resilience. … Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”
Although a cause of death was not revealed, Parton’s team said the 9 to 5 actress died peacefully in Nashville on Tuesday, August 25, at the age of 80.
A small, private service will be held for immediate family at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a program that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth to age 5, no matter their family’s income.
Without hesitation, several actors and performers quickly paid tribute to Parton on social media. Keep reading to see heartfelt messages from Kacey Musgraves, Reba McEntire and more stars.
Anne Hathaway
The actress shared a moving tribute to Parton via Instagram alongside a carousel of videos and images of the country icon throughout the years.
“Dolly 💔Aw heck … Heaven just got one of its own back. Alright my loves, I know this is hard but just think: she left us so much to work with. She shared with us so many melodies, so many lyrics, so many stories, so many jokes, so much laughter, so many iconic performances but most of all, so many shining examples of how to be a treasure of humanity,” Hathaway shared with fans.
She continued, “She more than deserves her rest, and now it’s up to us to do our best follow in her brilliant, adorable, one-of-a-kind, bedazzled footsteps so that we still feel that magic in our world. Dolly, you have always been one of my angels. I will always love you xx.”
Taylor Swift
“A world without Dolly doesn’t feel possible, real, or right. But because of the eternally generous way she spent her time on this earth and the countless lives she changed for the better, her legacy will be an everlasting one,” Swift, 36, said in a statement to Us.
Jane Fonda
“I am devastated. I just learned that Dolly has moved on,” Parton’s 9 to 5 costar, 88, shared via Instagram. “I know that millions are mourning and I want to say this — more than anyone I have ever known, Dolly will always be with us because she was so present, so powerful, so generous and playful that she is woven into all our lives and hearts forever.”
Paul McCartney
“The magnificent star Dolly Parton has died and it is so sad. She was such a wonderful woman,” the Beatles legend wrote via his website. “I first met her in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry where she had been playing with the country star Porter Wagoner and was about to start her solo career. She was so bubbly and full of life; it is difficult to take in the news that she has passed. Her songwriting, her singing and her philanthropy were unrivaled in the world of country music and it is hard to imagine living in a world without Dolly.”
He continued, “She was a very clever business woman who understood the value of her music and, most importantly, the effect that she had on the people of the world. There was no greater honor for me than to have her sing my song Let It Be and, even though I only made a small contribution to it, I am so honored that she did it. I am so proud to have known her and admire her unique talents.”
“Thanks, Dolly, for the beautiful music you gave me and the whole world. We will always love you, god bless and rest in peace. You were the best,” McCartney concluded.
Elton John
“Shocked and devastated to hear of Dolly’s passing. A giant of an artist — unique and irreplaceable, with the kindest heart,” the “Rocketman” singer said in an Instagram Stories post.
Pitbull
Pitbull paid tribute to Parton during his Tuesday, August 25, concert at the Northwell at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, New York, and played her hit song “9 to 5” for the audience.
“There was someone that showed me love and believed in me when a lot of folks didn’t and gave me an opportunity, and her name is Dolly Parton,” he said onstage per footage shared via Instagram. “She lived an amazing life. A hard-working woman, intelligent, sophisticated, funny, powerful, intimidating, but more than anything, a good human being with a good heart.”
Barbra Streisand
“So sorry to hear about Dolly – she was a true force of nature. May she rest in peace 😢. Barbra,” the actress wrote via Instagram.
Jason Earles
The Hannah Montana alum shared a sweet throwback photo of himself with Parton, who held a recurring role on the Disney Channel show, via Instagram.
“I’m thinking about every wonderful thing I’ve ever heard about Dolly,” Earles, who played the older brother of Cyrus’ Montana on the show, began. “All her success, every personal story, all the posts people have made today in tribute … and all together, it barely scratches the surface of what a wonderful person she was.”
Earles continued, “I’m so grateful I got to call her Aunt Dolly on the show. But the truth is, no matter who you were, she always made you feel like family. I was a fan my whole life and I’ll always cherish the little time I got to spend with her. My love to everyone else out there who’s feeling the loss of our Aunt Dolly.”
Carrie Underwood
“She’s not gone,” Carrie Underwood wrote via Instagram alongside a carousel of photos of the two in happier times. “I know exactly where she is. She was the epitome of faith, grace, talent, beauty and humor. She had a humble heart for Jesus and made everyone around her feel special. She was probably the one person on planet Earth that everyone loved and could agree on. She was a one of one and no one will ever come close. It’s alright to be sad that this world lost a legend, but heaven gained an angel. Well done, good and faithful Dolly. Welcome home. ❤️🦋.”
Connie Britton
“I keep having these conversations with Dolly in my head today, like I did back in those Nashville days at the Ryman until I actually finally got to meet her in 2022,” Connie Britton began her heartfelt message. “So today I’ve been telling her what an inspiration and godsend she has been to me and to so many.”
“And she says, ‘You know honey, God is in you. Know and love every part of yourself. Let it shine as only you can. Use everything you’ve been given, all that you’ve come from. And use it generously, for joy and honesty and fun and service.’ At least, yeah…that’s what she’s saying to me. Thank you Dolly.”
Britton also referenced the August 16 death of her former Nashville costar Hayden Panettiere, concluding her post, “The blonds are really taking heaven by storm this week. 💔.”
Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter shared some of her fondest memories of the beloved music icon, writing, “Oh dolly 💔 the only thing i could say after we first met was ‘she really is an angel walking the earth” and “we look like we could be sisters!’ I will cherish our laughter and conversations and i will keep your wisdom, your playful outlook on life, and perfect sense of humor in my pocket for the rainy days. There will never be another you and how lucky are we all to have experienced your singular magic as well as your once in a lifetime voice, songs, and heart. Your light will be something the world will search forever to find again 🦋🦋🦋 i will always love you.”
Kacey Musgraves
“Dolly. This really really hurts,” country singer Kacey Musgraves wrote via X. “The world feels a lot less sparkly all of a sudden. So glad she’s with her [late husband] Carl Dean. No one talk to me today.”
Kelsea Ballerini
“My East Tennessee angel, thank you for every ounce of magic and butterflies, acceptance and joy, heart and music you brought to this world,” country singer Kelsea Ballerini wrote via her Instagram Story. “We will always love you Dolly.”
Reba McEntire
“Well, I just got the news that my buddy Dolly passed onto the higher and greater side. Dolly, thank you for all the wonderful things you did for us here on earth. Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart. There will never ever be another you,” country singer Reba McEntire wrote via Instagram. “We will remember and cherish every memory and every note you ever played and sang. Thank you, Lord, for Dolly. She’s gonna have a blast in heaven singing all her favorite songs with all her family and friends who have gone on before her. I’ll never forget the first time I met you and I’ll never forget our last conversation. I hold it with love in my heart. I will always love you, Reba.”
Seth MacFarlane
“The news of Dolly Parton’s passing is devastating. I had the extraordinary experience of working with her on The Orville, and it was a joy to discover that she really was exactly the person we all hoped she was,” Seth MacFarlane wrote via X. “Her kindness, generosity and authenticity were evident from moment one, and the benign yet assured command she maintained over her empire was obvious from the genuine love and trust you could see from everyone who worked for her. The world is a dimmer place today without her.”
Meghan McCain
“Dolly Parton was an absolute American icon and legend. Singular in her impact, love, talent, music, kindness, passion and strength. There never was nor ever will be another like her. There are almost no words to express what a loss this is for America, she was one of the few people who had the ability to unite and truly bring everyone together through her music, art, light and spirit,” former cohost of The View Meghan McCain shared via X. “On a personal note, she is hands down the kindest, warmest, friendliest celebrity I had the pleasure of ever meeting. When people ask me the highlight of working at The View, I always say meeting Dolly Parton. Her famous quote ~ ‘The way I see it if you want the rainbow, you’ve got to put up with the rain’ has helped me through many tough moments and grief in life. I am deeply saddened by this news just being a huge fan. We love you forever Dolly.”
Khloé Kardashian
“My sweet Dolly. You are with your hubby who I know you missed immensely. I also know that you are with your creator! God has you wrapped in His arms. God bless you forever and always. Thank you for EVERYTHING,” Khloé Kardashian wrote via her Instagram Story. “Some people are so extraordinary, their existence feels almost impossible. Dolly was one of those people.”
The Kardashians star continued, “A once-in-a-lifetime soul. A woman whose light, heart, talent and humanity changed this world forever. To have admired her was a gift. To have met her, spent time in her presence and somehow been lucky enough that Dolly Parton knew my name … I will never have words big enough for what that means to me. What an astronomical human being. What a legacy. What a loss. There will never be another Dolly.”
Keke Palmer
“I’m devastated. Truly,” actress Keke Palmer wrote via Instagram after learning the news.
President Donald Trump
“Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people,” President Donald Trump wrote via TruthSocial. “There has never been anyone like her, and never will. In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you. President DONALD J. TRUMP.”
Barack Obama
“It’s hard to imagine many people having a bigger impact than Dolly Parton,” the former president wrote via X. “Born in a one-room cabin, she earned 11 Grammys and an Emmy, built a business empire, helped millions of kids learn to read, and — as if that wasn’t enough — helped accelerate the research that led to the Moderna COVID vaccine. What a life. Michelle and I are thinking of Dolly’s family and her many, many fans.”
George W. Bush
“Laura and I, along with thousands of her fans, mourn the passing of Dolly Parton,” the 43rd president of the United States wrote via Instagram. “We loved her music and her style. She was a great entertainer and even greater person. We respected her work to promote literacy, advance health and strengthen communities. Dolly was a talented and hardworking American who will be missed.”
Andy Cohen
“🦋 💔 We were all so lucky to live in her midst and get to experience her music, kindness, and joy. 💔 🦋,” Andy Cohen shared via Instagram.
Jenna Bush Hager
“As I write this, Dolly’s music is being played in the restaurant where I am eating. She was a legend. Her voice was unparalleled, but it was her utter originality and purity of spirit that will be sorely missed,” Today show cohost Jenna Bush Hager wrote via Instagram. “We needed all that glitter and goodness. She gave with all that she was. In this picture of us, I had just received the news my grandmother, Jenna had passed away. I was already with her in Knoxville so she held me and gave me such grace. I’ll never forget that kindness. May we take just a little of her beauty and pass it on.”
Lily Tomlin
“Friend. Songwriter. The Great Harmonizer of Humanity. Dolly. Dolly. Dolly. Forever Dolly,” 9 to 5 actress Lily Tomlin shared via X.
Rosie O’Donnell
“This earth angel has gone back to heaven where she came from — heartbroken 💔 #iwillalwaysloveyou,” comedian Rosie O’Donnell shared via Instagram.
Pedro Pascal
“One of one 💔. We must make more. #DollyParton #Love,” actor Pedro Pascal wrote via Instagram.
Dionne Warwick
“I will certainly miss her laugher, jokes and her being,” singer Dionne Warwick shared via X. “Rest well and in total peace my friend. My heart is heavy.”
Paris Hilton
“Heartbroken to hear about Queen @DollyParton’s passing. She was a true icon and such an inspiration to me,” Paris Hilton shared via X. “Her talent, heart and kindness touched so many lives, and she truly left this world better than she found it. Sending all my love to her family, friends and everyone who loved her. Rest in peace, Dolly.”
Kristin Chenoweth
“Like the rest of the world, I’m immediately heartbroken. I met Dolly on several occasions and she always made me feel like one of her own,” actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth wrote via Instagram. “She even agreed to sing with me on one of my records. My ultimate inspiration. The world has lost one of the best but I know we will never forget her because she is impossible to forget. I love you Dolly and I will ALWAYS love you 💔🌈🦋.”
Jamie Lee Curtis
“They say don’t meet your heroes. They were wrong about her. Her bravery to know that she was more than they thought she was and that she needed to break away and move on into new work and new possibilities led her to write ‘I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU,’ as her way of thanking and loving, but moving on,” actress Jamie Lee Curtis wrote via Instagram. “She is a great example for us all.”
Sally Field
“If there are truly angels on earth, then we have just lost one. Dolly Parton,” Steel Magnolias star Sally Field wrote via Instagram. “There will never be another. I adored her with all my heart and will always cherish our time together. Forever. Rest in peace beautiful Dolly.”
Maggie Rogers
“💔One of the greatest songwriters of all time, beautiful radiant butterfly human,” singer Maggie Rogers wrote via Instagram. “I played with her at Newport once and I felt like my chest was on fire. I was so wildly awe struck. Thank you thank you a million times Dolly.”
Mark Wystrach
“Grateful to have gotten to spend some time with you and tell you how much your music meant to My Mom, My Siblings and Me growing up,” Midland lead singer Mark Wystrach wrote via Instagram. “Thank you for the music. Rest in peace Dolly. “Eagle When She Flies” was the song that got my Mom thru losing her Mom. It was their favorite song that they shared as an unspoken pact.”
Kathie Lee Gifford
“I am completely devastated by the loss of my precious friend, Dolly. She encouraged me and loved me every day I needed it,” former talk show host Kathie Lee Gifford wrote via X. “That is what I remember most….I wish more people in this world would live like Dolly did. To just be kind and loving and steadfast . I will miss her for the rest of my life.”
Blake Shelton
“I can say with absolute certainty that we are all feeling the same heart brokenness today,” country singer Blake Shelton wrote via X. “I only got to spend any real time with Dolly when Gwen [Stefani] and I got to work with her on The Voice. I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is. It was like being with the funnest, most loving, most caring and closest member of your family. Truly a loss for the entire world. We love you Dolly.”
Kelly Clarkson
“Dolly Parton had a way of making everyone feel special, and seen, and welcomed, and as if you were old friends,” The Voice coach Kelly Clarkson wrote via X. “I will miss her heart and her voice as I am sure millions will. What an incredible gift and talent she was and still is with an amazing catalogue of art she has left behind for all of us.”
Ivanka Trump
“A couple years ago on @lexfridman podcast, I cited a piece of wisdom from @DollyParton that has resonated within me since I first heard it. ‘I don’t criticize and condemn; I love and accept.’ That quote, like so much of what made Dolly Parton an American icon, was deceptively simple — uncomplicated on its face but profound and deeply moving beneath the surface,” Ivanka Trump wrote via X. “Goodbye to a bright light. A peerless singer, incredible songwriter, gifted comic actress, tireless philanthropist, accomplished businesswoman and true original. We never met but I adored and admired Dolly greatly.”
Bill Clinton
“Dolly Parton was one of a kind — a great songwriter and performer who told the stories of everyday Americans with honesty, humility and heart. She rose high from her East Tennessee roots and never forgot where she came from,” former President Bill Clinton wrote via X. “And she always believed in giving back, especially in her efforts to promote literacy. Hillary and I were big fans and first saw her in 1974, and will always be grateful for the music and the memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, her legion of fans, and everyone who loved her.”
Carly Pearce
“I’ve said often in my life, ‘What will the world be without Dolly?’ From the time I was a little girl, I wanted to be just like her. At 15 years old, my family uprooted their lives so I could start chasing my dreams, working in the country show at Dollywood. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of not only working with Dolly, but getting to know her,” country singer Carly Pearce shared via Instagram. “She was exactly who we all hoped she would be — kind, funny, gracious and one of a kind. Heaven got a whole lot sassier, funnier and brighter today. I will do my part as a woman in country music to continue carrying the light she shined so brightly for all of us. I love you, Dolly. 🦋 – forever your little Dollywood girl.”
Trace Adkins
“It is indeed rare for the world, collectively, to express sorrow for someone’s passing,” country singer Trace Adkins shared via Instagram. “I knew her to be the angel that they think she was, and I’ll miss her. Dolly, I’ll always love you.”
Keith Urban
“Heartbroken today. Dolly Parton,” country singer Keith Urban shared via his Instagram Story. “Honestly….I have no words right now.”
Brad Paisley
“I never imagined this day would come. Getting to know Dolly was life changing, but not just for me. For everyone,” country singer Brad Paisley wrote via Instagram. “She seemed immortal. And in the spirit of what we sang together on this song, I believe she is. It won’t be the same down here without you Dolly. But what a legacy of goodness and art you leave for all of us. Goodbye hero. We will always love you.”
Billy Ray Cyrus
Billy Ray Cyrus, who made Parton the godmother to his daughter Miley Cyrus, paid tribute to the singer via Instagram.
“I have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start,” he wrote. “Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TV’s, right in our living rooms.”
He continued, “In 1992, I’ll never forget walking into her dressing room to apologize for all the tabloid stories which claimed I was having an affair with her. In true Dolly fashion, she just looked at me, winked and said, ‘Honey, this trash sells records!’”
Billy Ray concluded, “Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart. I will always love her in the same way ….. with my whole heart … and I always will.”
Kamala Harris
Former Vice President of the United States Kamala Harris penned a touching tribute via Instagram.
“Dolly Parton was a true American icon. First introduced to the world as a ‘little girl from up in East Tennessee,’ she became a global superstar,” she wrote. “Her career accolades included 11 Grammy awards, an Emmy, an honorary Oscar, and — my favorite — more than 300 million books sent to millions of children around the world through her Imagination Library. All at once she was kind, modest, and funny. With her music, her philanthropy, and her style, Dolly was one of one.”
Harris concluded, “Doug and I send our prayers to her family, friends, and all those who have been touched by her magic. We will always love you, Dolly.”
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