Country music legend Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, her relatives have announced.
The artist, celebrated for tracks including 9 to 5 and Jolene, won over audiences globally throughout her lengthy career spanning several decades.
Bryan Seaver, the son of Cassie Parton, posted a video statement through Dolly’s verified Instagram profile on the evening of August 25.
He revealed the passing of his aunt, Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean, stating that she had requested he record such an announcement years beforehand, though he had not fully accepted it as something that would one day come to pass.
Serving as her chief of security for more than 20 years, a position previously held by his father Larry, he explained that he had pictured the weight of this moment countless times but had never truly experienced it until now.
He described it as a privilege intertwined with profound pride and deep sorrow.
Bryan noted that Dolly had been someone who lived in the light.
At the beginning of this month, Dolly was unable to attend the launch night of a new feature at her theme park in Tennessee after suffering from dizziness and dehydration. Medical professionals recommended she avoid travelling.
Following the cancellation of her appearance, she spoke to People magazine about experiencing health problems she had overlooked while tending to Carl.
She explained that she had neglected her own wellbeing while caring for her husband prior to his passing last year.
Dolly and Carl Thomas Dean were married for nearly six decades until his death in March 2025 at the age of 82.