Dolly Parton, one of America’s most celebrated country music stars, has died at the age of 80.
The legendary singer-songwriter rose from poverty in Tennessee to become a global cultural icon, with timeless hits including Jolene, 9 to 5, Coat of Many Colors and I Will Always Love You.
Parton’s family confirmed her death on Tuesday, with her nephew Bryan Seaver announcing the news in a video shared on social media.
“Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus,” Seaver said, describing her as a trailblazer who opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters and musicians.
The family did not disclose her cause of death. However, Parton had spoken publicly about health challenges in recent months. In May, she cancelled a series of Las Vegas performances, saying she was undergoing treatment for an unspecified illness and was not ready to return to the stage.
Parton spent more than six decades in the entertainment industry, establishing herself not only as a musician but also as an actress, philanthropist and successful businesswoman.
She moved to Nashville shortly after graduating from high school and began building a career in country music. By 1967, at just 21, she had become a recognised figure after joining Porter Wagoner’s popular country music television show.
Throughout her career, Parton wrote approximately 3,000 songs and released 49 studio albums, alongside more than 100 compilation and collaborative albums.
Her songwriting catalogue produced some of the most recognisable songs in music history. I Will Always Love You, which she originally wrote and recorded, later became a global hit for Whitney Houston.
Other major songs associated with Parton include Islands in the Stream and 9 to 5, further cementing her reputation as one of the most influential figures in country music.
Her influence extended beyond music, with generations of artists covering her songs and drawing inspiration from her career.
Parton’s husband, Carl Dean, died in 2025.
Following news of her death, tributes poured in from across the United States. President Donald Trump ordered American flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide for a week in her honour, describing her death as a “true loss” for millions of people.
“There has never been anyone like her, and never will,” Trump said.
Dolly Parton leaves behind a legacy that stretches far beyond country music, with her songs, philanthropy and distinctive personality making her one of the most recognisable American entertainers of all time.
