Dolly Parton dies aged 80
Dolly Parton, one of the most successful and influential figures in country music, has died aged 80, her family has announced.
Her nephew Brian Seaver confirmed the news on Tuesday, 25 August, in a video published through Parton’s social media accounts. No cause of death was immediately disclosed.
Parton’s death brings to a close a career spanning more than six decades across music, touring, film, television and business. She sold more than 100 million records worldwide and won 11 Grammy Awards, establishing herself as one of country music’s most commercially successful artists.
Her catalogue included songs such as Jolene, 9 to 5 and I Will Always Love You, the latter becoming a major international hit for Whitney Houston. Parton was also inducted into both the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Recent health issues
Parton had faced a number of health issues in the period leading up to her death. Earlier in 2026 she cancelled planned Las Vegas performances and subsequently missed appearances at her Dollywood theme park on medical advice.
She had spoken publicly about ongoing health problems, while continuing to work on several projects. As recently as August, Parton said she remained active professionally despite having experienced dizziness, dehydration and other health issues. (People.com)
She had not undertaken a full tour since her Pure & Simple Tour in 2016, although she continued to make occasional live appearances and remained involved in recording and other entertainment projects.
Major influence on the music business
Born in Tennessee in 1946, Parton developed from a Nashville country artist into an international entertainment brand, combining recording and publishing success with film, television and business ventures.
Alongside her work as a performer, she retained a strong focus on songwriting and music publishing throughout her career. Her extensive catalogue and control over key copyrights became an important part of her long-term commercial success.
Her wider business interests included Dollywood in Tennessee, while her philanthropic activities included the Imagination Library literacy programme.
Parton’s husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, died in March 2025.
Her family has not yet announced details of memorial arrangements.