Country music has lost one of its greatest legends.

Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80. The news was announced on Monday, August 25, by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, who remembered Parton as someone who inspired generations of singers, songwriters and dreamers around the world.

 

Her death comes just four days after Parton opened up about her health and her determination to keep working.

“Even though I’m still healin’, I’m still workin’,” she said. “I still have so many things I want to achieve.”

 

From “Jolene” and “Coat of Many Colors” to “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You,” Parton built one of the most successful careers in country music history.

 

The Tennessee native became a global superstar, with a career that extended beyond music into film, television, business and philanthropy. She starred in films including 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias, founded Dollywood and created her Imagination Library, which has provided books to millions of children.

 

Parton was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999 and later the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Throughout her career, she earned numerous Grammy, CMA and ACM Awards and became one of the most beloved entertainers in the world.

 

Parton was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025.

 

Dolly Parton leaves behind an unforgettable legacy, not only through her music, but through the countless lives she touched along the way.