Country Music Legend Dolly Parton Dies at 80

According to media reports, country music legend and Tennessee native Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80. Her family announced her death Tuesday. A cause of death has not been announced.

Parton was born in East Tennessee and rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most recognizable and influential entertainers in the world. Her career spanned more than six decades and included country classics such as “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors” and “I Will Always Love You,” along with the crossover hit “9 to 5.” She won 11 Grammy Awards and was inducted into both the Country Music Hall of Fame and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Parton also became a successful actress, appearing in films including 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias, and her influence extended throughout Tennessee through Dollywood and numerous other ventures.

Her charitable work became another major part of her legacy. Parton founded the Imagination Library, which provides free books to children and has distributed hundreds of millions of books around the world. She also supported disaster relief, education and medical research throughout her career.

Parton had experienced health problems in recent months and had missed some public appearances. Just days ago, she discussed those health issues publicly while saying she was continuing to work.

According to media reports, Parton’s family plans to hold a small, private service. Her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, died in March 2025.

Dolly Parton was 80.