26th August 2026 – (Los Angeles) Dolly Parton, the singer, songwriter, actor and philanthropist whose career spanned six decades, has died at the age of 80 in Nashville. Her death was confirmed on 25th August 2026 by multiple news organisations citing her representatives and family. Tributes poured in from across the entertainment world as fans gathered at vigils from Los Angeles to Tennessee to celebrate a life that shaped country music and popular culture.
A statement attributed to her publicist, Marcel Pariseau of True Public Relations, said Parton had “bravely” faced a brief battle with cancer and died surrounded by loved ones at the Vanderbilt‑Ingram Cancer Center. The wording was reported widely following the family’s announcement.
Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, earlier shared a family video confirming her passing and thanking fans for their support. Parton had recently limited public appearances while addressing health challenges, following the death of her husband, Carl Dean, in March 2025.
Parton’s legacy includes timeless hits such as Jolene and I Will Always Love You, more than 100 million records sold worldwide, and decades of philanthropy, notably through the Imagination Library, which has mailed free books to children across several countries. She also provided significant funding to medical research during the Covid‑19 pandemic, reflecting a lifelong commitment to education and public health.
Born in rural Tennessee, Parton rose from poverty to international acclaim, building an enduring reputation for artistry, entrepreneurship and generosity. As tributes from fellow artists and public figures made clear, her music and charitable work remain woven into the cultural fabric of the United States and beyond.
