Dolly Parton, one of the most loved names in country music, has died at the age of 80. Representatives for the legendary singer confirmed to People that she died following a brief battle with cancer. Parton passed away on August 25 at the Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Tennessee, surrounded by her family and loved ones. Her death has left fans and the entertainment industry mourning the loss of a singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman and philanthropist whose career lasted for more than six decades.
A statement from Parton’s representatives remembered her for the happiness, hope and kindness she brought to people around the world. Her team also highlighted her charity work, including the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which has provided books to children, along with her support for medical research and other causes. The statement said that Parton faced her cancer battle bravely before her death.
The news was first announced by her nephew Bryan Seaver in an emotional video shared on Instagram. Seaver had worked as Parton’s head of security for more than 20 years. He revealed that Parton had asked him years ago to make the announcement when the time came. While speaking about her death, he described the moment as both deeply sad and an honour for the family.
Seaver also revealed a personal request Parton had made about her final arrangements. He said she wanted to be laid to rest “in a beautiful bed of plush cotton.” He explained that after spending so much of her life wearing heavy rhinestones, she deserved to be comfortable.
Parton had been experiencing health problems in the months before her death. Reports said she was admitted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center five days before she died with kidney and autoimmune issues. Her health concerns had also affected her work. She had canceled an appearance at Dollywood after her doctor advised her not to travel.
In a prerecorded video, Parton explained that she sometimes became dizzy and dehydrated. She said her Nashville doctor had told her not to travel that week so she could focus on her health.
Her final public appearance came virtually on August 19, when she accepted the ACM Poet’s Award. During her speech, Parton spoke about the importance of songwriting and how it had always been at the centre of her creative life.
Just days later, she spoke about her health in what became her final interview with People. Parton said she had been dealing with health issues that she had not paid enough attention to while caring for her husband, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025.
Despite everything, Parton remained determined to work and complete the projects she had planned. She said she still had many dreams and wanted to keep working for as long as possible.
Following her death, tributes poured in from Hollywood and the music industry. Julia Roberts, her co star in Steel Magnolias, remembered her as a “magical and joyous human.” Sally Field and Lily Tomlin also paid tribute to the late star.
Dolly Parton leaves behind a remarkable legacy that goes far beyond music. Through her songs, movies, businesses and charity work, she touched millions of lives and became an unforgettable figure in entertainment history.