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Miley Cyrus admits the 'terrible habit' she learned from Dolly Parton

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:49:06 -0400

Miley Cyrus revealed the unconventional lesson she learned from Dolly Parton and the "terrible habit" she picked up from the country music legend.

The "Wrecking Ball" singer said she adopted her godmother’s strategy of promoting projects before they exist – leading to the creation of the 20th anniversary special of "Hannah Montana."

"I learned this terrible habit – but I actually think it was good advice – from Dolly," Cyrus told Variety. "She told me that if you want something to happen, promote it before it exists. Then no one can say no."

"So, I just started promoting a ‘Hannah Montana’ 20th-anniversary special that literally did not exist." 

DOLLY PARTON AT 80: FROM A ONE-ROOM CABIN IN THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS TO WORLDWIDE FAME

Parton, who Cyrus refers to as her godmother, has long been a role model for the singer who gained stardom at 13 as Miley Stewart on the Disney Channel. Now, Cyrus hopes to be a mentor to those following in her footsteps. Cyrus reached out to Chappell Roan after the new-age pop star publicly revealed she was struggling with harassment from fans.

"I never bow down to bullies. Anytime I feel like somebody is being bullied, I feel very protective of them," Cyrus told the outlet.

"When I see people struggling, I’m always the first one to ask, ‘Can I get in contact with them?’ I’d like to show artists how they can have a balanced life."

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After years of seemingly working to unlink herself from the days of Disney stardom, Cyrus has completely embraced "Hannah Montana" again as she celebrates the 20th anniversary.

"I wasn’t trying to kill Hannah off," Cyrus told Variety about her past comments, seemingly referencing a 10th anniversary post where she claimed Hannah Montana was "chopped up into little tiny pieces" and buried in her backyard. "I was just progressing."

"Being recognizable as a teen going through different phases and stages was sometimes awkward, but that’s what helped me relate to the kids watching at home."

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Cyrus made it out of child stardom, but not without the help of her parents. The "Party in the U.S.A." singer starred in "Hannah Montana" with her dad, Billy Ray Cyrus.

Cyrus told Variety having Billy Ray on set might have shielded her from the dark side of children working in Hollywood.

"My parents didn’t need me to be famous to survive or to be stable," she explained. "What happens to a lot of these kids is their parents want it more than they do, or the kids become responsible for the entire income of the family. That was never my job. Every penny I ever made went into my bank account because my parents were good." 

Billy Ray's dressing room was connected to Cyrus' and her grandmother, Loretta "Mammie" Finley, managed the star's fan club from the kitchen-turned-office.

"My dad was on set every single day, so there was nothing that could happen that he wouldn’t know about," Cyrus noted. "There was never a time where I was going to be alone in that dressing room." 

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Dolly Parton gives health update at Dollywood after postponing Las Vegas residency shows

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 13:26:38 -0400

Dolly Parton delivered a candid health update while kicking off the 2026 season at Dollywood, revealing grief took a physical toll after the death of her husband of nearly six decades, Carl Dean.

The country legend told fans she had been "worn down and worn out" while grieving over her late husband and dealing with a few health setbacks.

"I’ve not been touring, as you know," Parton said during a keynote speech, according to footage shared by local station WVLT 8. "I’ve had a few little health issues, and we’re taking good care of them."

Parton, 80, admitted the emotional toll of losing Dean, who died March 3, 2025, at age 82 after 58 years of marriage, left her feeling drained.

DOLLY PARTON REFUSES TO SLOW DOWN AT 79, FEELS LIKE SHE’S ‘JUST GETTING STARTED’ DESPITE HEALTH SETBACKS

"I just kind of got worn down and worn out, grieving over Carl and a lot of other little things going on," Parton said. "I just got myself kind of where I needed to build myself back up spiritually, emotionally and physically. But all is good. It didn’t slow me down."

Despite the setbacks, Parton appeared upbeat as she took the stage with Eugene Naughton, president of the Dollywood Company, to celebrate the park’s new season.

The "9 to 5" singer also shut down speculation about her love life with a dose of her trademark humor.

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After joking that fans shouldn’t mistake Naughton for her "new husband," Parton confirmed she hasn’t started dating since Dean’s death.

"I think Carl Dean’s waiting for me," she said. "If I should show up at the pearly gates with somebody else, he would not like that. He’d be saying, ‘Who’s that little pisser? You leave him outside the gates.’"

Fox News Digital has reached out to Parton for comment.

Parton has faced mounting health concerns in recent months, prompting the country icon to delay a highly anticipated return to the stage.

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In September, Parton sparked worry among fans when she announced she would postpone a Las Vegas residency originally scheduled for December 2025 and push the shows to September 2026 as she dealt with ongoing health issues.

A month later, the 80-year-old singer addressed the speculation directly on social media, assuring followers she was doing just fine.

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She captioned the post, "I ain't dead yet!"

The update came months after the loss of her husband.

"Carl and I spent many wonderful years together," the "Jolene" singer wrote on social media at the time.

"Words can't do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy."

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Parton first met Dean at a laundromat when she was just 18 and he was 21. The pair married in 1966 and built a decades-long relationship largely outside the spotlight.

Though rarely seen publicly with his superstar wife, Dean remained a constant presence behind the scenes, quietly supporting Parton throughout her legendary career.

Dolly Parton fans can now book stays at her upcoming hotel in Nashville

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 11:30:58 -0500

Dolly Parton is giving fans a new way to check into Nashville.

Reservations are officially open for the SongTeller Hotel, Parton’s highly anticipated downtown property in Tennessee.

The venue won’t welcome guests until summer 2026, but bookings are already live.

DOLLY PARTON UNVEILS FAVORITE NASHVILLE DESTINATIONS AMID NEW TRAVEL STOP PARTNERSHIP

"This is a huge milestone in the project’s progression," Shannon Foster, general manager of Dolly Parton's SongTeller Hotel, told Fox News Digital.

"Extending reservations at this stage allows us to cultivate relationships with future guests, gather early demand insights and thoughtfully plan staffing and operations to ensure we’re fully prepared to deliver the authentic hotel experience guests can expect."

The hotel is located near Broadway, placing it within walking distance of the city’s most popular music venues and tourist attractions.

"Broadway has become such a hub of tourism, this felt like the right time to bring something special to all the wonderful activity in Nashville," Parton said on her website.

"I’ve always dreamed of being able to create something here in Music City and I know we’ve found the perfect addition to the city I call home."

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The hotel is designed as a music-driven gathering space that brings together guests, music lovers and fans of Parton’s work.

"Envisioned by our ‘Dreamer in Chief’ (Dolly), the hotel is a place to honor music, creativity and true Southern hospitality," Foster said.

The property will offer a variety of rooms and suites, with select accommodations inspired by Parton’s songwriting career.

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Plans also call for several on-site entertainment and dining spaces intended to host live music performances and events, Foster noted.

Venues planned for the property include Parton’s Live, which is expected to feature songwriter rounds and live performances.

Jolene’s, named after Parton’s 1973 hit, is expected to offer live entertainment paired with dining and cocktails.

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"Both venues are ticket-only experiences to allow guests to enjoy the events without the crowds," Foster noted.

The hotel will also include Dolly's Life of Many Colors Museum, a dedicated space focused on Parton's life and career that will be located on the third floor of the property.

"This museum is a place where folks can see my journey through my own eyes—every color, every story, and every dream that brought me here," Parton said on her website.

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Other planned amenities include a retail boutique featuring Parton-inspired merchandise, such as clothing, accessories and souvenirs.

Dolly Parton at 80: From a one-room cabin in the Smoky Mountains to worldwide fame

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 09:00:02 -0500

Dolly Parton has spent the last 60 years transforming herself from a small town girl to one of the biggest names in the world. Now, Parton is celebrating her 80th birthday.

In a video shared earlier this month, the country music icon informed viewers that she will not be attending the "Opry Goes Dolly" event, which is an annual event hosted to honor Parton. In a video shared on Jan. 17, Parton wished attendees and viewers have "the best night ever."

"I just wanted to say how much it means to me that you’re all coming together again this year to celebrate my big ol’ birthday," she began.

"I wish I could be there in person, but I’ll be sending you all my love for sure," Parton concluded.

DOLLY PARTON MISSES DOLLYWOOD EVENT DUE TO HEALTH ISSUES

On Jan. 17, the Grand Ole Opry honored Parton "80s era" with performances from Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, Rhonda Vincent and more.

Below is a look at how Parton transformed herself from humble beginnings to superstar fame.

Rural childhood

Parton spent her young years in rural Sevierville, Tennessee, but knew from a young age that she had big dreams.

Parton was born in 1946, the fourth of 12 children. She grew up in the Smoky Mountains of east Tennessee, and much of her childhood was spent sharing a one-bedroom cabin with her parents and 11 brothers and sisters.

In 2021, she told USA Today that she knew there was more out there than the Great Smoky Mountains. "I just knew that I wanted to be out in a bigger world. I knew there was more than just the Smokies. I love my people, I love my home, but I just wanted to do more."

Before she made it to the big stage, she told the outlet that she would go to her front porch and attach a tobacco tin can to a stick and make her own microphone. Family members caught on that she had a passion for singing.

DOLLY PARTON UNVEILS FAVORITE NASHVILLE DESTINATIONS AMID NEW TRAVEL STOP PARTNERSHIP

"I had an uncle, Bill Owens, that used to take me around to different places to sing. He had taught me all the chords on the guitar, because he saw early on that I was serious about my singing," Parton told USA Today.

While in high school, Parton and Owens signed with Tree Publishing, which led to a deal with Mercury Records.

Her first single with the record company, "It's Sure Gonna Hurt," was released in 1962. It didn't perform well, and she was dropped by the label shortly after.

Teenage dreams

The day after her high school graduation in 1964, Parton left her hometown for Nashville.

In 1976, Parton told the New York Times that she met her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, right when she moved to Nashville. She said he "hollered" at her while driving his pickup truck outside the Wishy Washy Laundromat, but she declined his request for a date.

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DOLLY PARTON REIMAGINES TRAVEL FOR TRUCKERS, FAMILIES AND ROADTRIPPERS IN HOT NEW VENTURE

She instead invited him over the following day while she was babysitting her nephew.

"He came up every day that week and we sat out on the porch. I wouldn't even take him in the house," she told the outlet at the time.

"Then my aunt got a day off, and she could keep the kid and that was my first chance to go anywhere with Carl and he drove me straight to his folks' house and introduced me to his mother and daddy. 'Cause he said he knew right the minute he saw me that that's the one he wanted."

In 1965, Parton signed with Monument Records as a pop artist.

Marriage bells

In 1966, Parton and Dean tied the knot.

DOLLY PARTON'S SISTER ASKS WORLD TO PRAY FOR COUNTRY STAR AFTER HEALTH CHALLENGES FORCE CONCERT POSTPONEMENTS

Monument Records requested that she and Dean wait to get married for the sake of her career, according to Business Insider. They married in Georgia, so their marriage wouldn't be promoted in the press in Tennessee, the outlet said.

She told CMT in 2016: "It was just my mother and Carl and me. We went across the state line to Ringgold, Georgia. My mother made me a little white dress and a little bouquet and a little Bible. But I said, 'I can't get married in a courthouse because I'll never feel married.' So we found a little Baptist church in town, and went up to Pastor Don Duvall and said, 'Would you marry us?' We got pictures on the steps right outside the church."

Dean remained largely out of the public eye before his death in 2025.

However, to honor the couple's 50th wedding anniversary in 2016, he shared a statement with Entertainment Tonight: "My first thought was 'I'm gonna marry that girl.' My second thought was, 'Lord she’s good lookin.' And that was the day my life began. I wouldn't trade the last 50 years for nothing on this earth."

National fame

In 1967, Parton released her debut album, "Hello, I'm Dolly."

DOLLY PARTON FORCED TO SKIP HALL OF FAME HONOR AS DOCTORS TELL HER TO 'TAKE IT EASY'

Shortly after the release of her album, Parton had a guest appearance on "The Porter Wagoner Show," which offered her a spot as his duet co-host. In 1974, she officially left Wagoner’s show (amicably, after legal disputes).

In 1970, Parton launched her solo career. Her breakout solo hits like "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You" were released in 1973.

Parton's movie debut was in "9 to 5," and her title song became a global hit. She went on to star in several popular movies, including "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" and "Rhinestone."

Dollywood

The '80s was Parton's time to shine when it came to her business.

In 1986, she became co-owner of Dollywood, a theme park and entertainment resort, in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The park draws millions of people annually.

The 2000s

In 2005, Parton launched the Imagination Library, a literacy program that provides free books to children around the world. In the 2000s, she continued to release music, tour and receive numerous lifetime achievement honors, including the Kennedy Center Honors.

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In the 2010s and beyond, Parton celebrated major career anniversaries, released new albums, and gained renewed attention through film and television projects inspired by her life and music. In 2016, Parton celebrated 50 years in music with the "Pure & Simple" tour.

In 2022, she was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. In 2023, Parton decided to stray from country music and released her first rock album, "Rockstar."

Dean's death

In 2025, Parton mourned the death of her husband in March.

Several months later, she was a guest on Khloé Kardashian's podcast and admitted that she was deeply grieving.

"My husband passed away three months ago… [There are] several things I have wanted to start, but I can’t do it," Parton shared on "Khloé in Wonder Land."

"I will later," she added. "I’m just coming up with such wonderful, beautiful ideas, but I think I won’t finish it. I can’t do it right now, because I got so many other things."

DOLLY PARTON REFUSES TO SLOW DOWN AT 79, FEELS LIKE SHE’S ‘JUST GETTING STARTED' DESPITE HEALTH SETBACKS

Parton announced Dean's death in a heartfelt statement that she shared on Instagram on March 3.

"Carl and I spent many wonderful years together," the "9 to 5" singer wrote. "Words can't do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy."

Health struggles

Parton has battled various health issues over the past few months, and in September, sparked concern among fans when she announced that she would be postponing her upcoming Las Vegas residency from December 2025 to September 2026.

In October, the country icon took to social media to give a much-anticipated update on her health, saying she was "not dying" just yet.

"Well, today's October the eighth, and obviously I'm here doing some commercials for the Grand Ole Opry, which is why I'm dressed kind of like a country western girl," Parton said in a video posted on Instagram. "But before I got started, I wanted to say, I know lately everybody thinks that I am sicker than I am. Do I look sick to you? I'm working hard here."

"Anyway, I wanted to put everybody's mind at ease," she continued. "Those of you that seem to be real concerned, which I appreciate, and I appreciate your prayers because I'm a person of faith. I can always use the prayers for anything and everything, but I want you to know that I'm okay. I've got some problems. As I mentioned back when my husband, Carl, was very sick. That was for a long time. And then when he passed, I didn't take care of myself. So I let a lot of things go that I should have been taking care of."

Parton said her doctor urged her to take care of a few things, but reassured her fans it was "nothing major."

"I did have to cancel some things so I could be closer to home, closer to Vanderbilt, where I'm kind of having a few treatments here and there," she said. "But I wanted you to know that I'm not dying."

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"But anyway, there's just a lot of rumors flying around, but I figured if you heard it from me, you'd know that I was okay," she concluded. "So anyhow, that's what I wanted to say, and I'm not ready to die yet. I don't think God is through with me and I ain't done working. I love you for caring and keep praying for me."

She captioned the post, "I ain't dead yet!"

‘Just getting started’

Ahead of the release of her new book, "Star of the Show: My Life on Stage," the country music legend opened up about her impressive career spanning more than seven decades, was candid about the personal sacrifices she's made throughout the years and explained why she feels like she's "just getting started" as she turns 80 years old.

"You know, I have just been going so fast my whole life," Parton told People magazine. "And I just start thinking, ‘How in the world did I even have a life? How did I even get it done?’ I really realized when I was putting this book together just how much I had sacrificed in my life. I never had children, so at least I didn’t have a guilty feeling. I’m thankful that I got to see my dreams come true."

"People say, ‘Well, you’re going to be 80 years old.’ Well, so what? Look at all I’ve done in 80 years. I feel like I’m just getting started," said Parton. "I know that sounds stupid, but unless my health gives way, which right now I seem to be doing fine… I think there’s a lot to be said about age. If you allow yourself to get old, you will. I say, ‘I ain’t got time to get old!’ I ain’t got time to dwell on that. That’s not what I’m thinking about."

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Fox News Digital's Christina Dugan Ramirez contributed to this report.

Dolly Parton unveils favorite Nashville destinations amid new travel stop partnership

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 06:00:30 -0500

The queen of country music is bringing her brand of Southern hospitality to Tennessee highways — making the trip to Nashville feel as memorable and fun as the destination itself.

Dolly Parton recently announced the roll-out of Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stops. The rest-stop areas will feature new and reimagined entertainment elements.

"I have spent the bulk of my life on the road, and more specifically on a bus," said Parton in a release.

Parton has partnered with the Tennessean Travel Stop brand to relaunch their flagship stop in Cornersville, Tennessee, with additional locations to be announced in 2026.

DOLLY PARTON REIMAGINES TRAVEL FOR TRUCKERS, FAMILIES AND ROADTRIPPERS IN HOT NEW VENTURE

Parton recently discussed her favorite place in Music City in an interview with Airmail.

In a nod to her own musical talents and career, she mentioned the Grand Ole Opry.

George D. Hay is credited with founding the musical treasure, having started radio station WSM — which went live for the first time in October 1925. The program, originally called "WSM's Barn Dance," also launched at that time.

The prominent announcer and program director launched the show with Uncle Jimmy Thompson, a 77-year-old fiddle player.

The name of the now-iconic brand — which includes a program, a live performance and a location — came from Hay in a burst of inspiration.

DOLLY PARTON’S HOLIDAY WONDERLAND ILLUMINATES THE TENNESSEE MOUNTAINS WITH 6 MILLION CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

The Opry grew so popular that the broadcast was moved to the Ryman Auditorium in downtown Nashville in 1943.

The Opry then built its own theater and country-music campus, Opryland, in 1974, about 10 miles east of the city center.

Parton told Airmail she was on stage at the Ryman Auditorium in 1969 when she was inducted into the Opry.

"Since then, I’ve performed many times at the Ryman, whether it be for television specials or for my own concerts," said Parton.

Home to country legends and rising stars, the Opry today has a seating capacity of nearly 4,400, with over 30 sections.

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"When I celebrated my 50th year as a member of the Opry in 2019, we filmed the television special on that magical stage," Parton said.

The Opry is the longest-running radio broadcast on the planet, according to Guinness World Records.

Nearby Ryman is Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, a legendary honky-tonk bar in downtown Nashville.

The lounge has been a launching pad and clubhouse for numerous country artists.

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"When I moved to Nashville, it was known that if you couldn’t find someone backstage, there was a good chance they were at the bar at Tootsie’s," said Parton.

"Years back, many of the great Opry performers and I filmed a segment there for my variety series, ‘Dolly.’"

For Nashville visitors who want to get their steps in, Parton also mentioned the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge.

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"When they added the beautiful pedestrian bridge years back, it connected East Nashville to Downtown," said Parton.

"I filmed the music video for my single ‘Together You & I’ on this bridge in 2011."

The truss bridge stretches 0.59 miles.

It spans the Cumberland River, showing off the beautiful Nashville skyline, according to Greenways for Nashville.

Fox News Digital reached out to Dolly Parton's team for additional comment.

Dolly Parton reimagines travel for truckers, families and road trippers in hot new venture

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 13:41:34 -0500

The queen of country music is bringing her Southern hospitality to Tennessee highways in an effort to make travel more enjoyable.

Dolly Parton announced the roll-out of Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stops. The rest-stop areas will feature new and reimagined entertainment elements.

"I have spent the bulk of my life on the road, and more specifically on a bus," said Parton in a press release.

WATCH A DOLLYWOOD CHRISTMAS ON FOX NATION

"All the years spent visiting greasy spoon cafés, truck stops and roadside pit stops have given me an understanding of what travelers desire on the road," she also said.

With her first charting single in 1967, Parton has won 11 Grammy Awards throughout her 60 years in the music industry — 10 competitive awards plus the Lifetime Achievement Award. She was also inducted as a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.

"Whether you are driving a truck, a bus or a car, you want a place that feels like home and recharges you for the rest of your journey," she also said. "I believe we will fill a void out there on the highways, all while bringing the heart and soul of Tennessee."

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Parton has partnered with the Tennessean Travel Stop brand to relaunch their flagship stop in Cornersville, Tennessee, with additional locations to be announced next year.

The Smoky Mountains native will bring her own style to the rest stops, hoping to appeal to all of those on the roads — families, commuters, truck drivers and road trippers.

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In 2019, drivers covered 227,102 miles daily on Tennessee’s rural and urban roads, according to the state government website.

"The Tennessean has long been a ‘home away from home’ for truck drivers, travelers and locals alike. Our roots in this community run deep — we’ve created jobs, built connections and welcomed generations of people through our doors," said Gregory Sachs, chairman and CEO of the Tennessean Travel Stop and Sachs Capital Group.

He added, "This new partnership allows us to carry that legacy forward in a way that celebrates everything special about Tennessee."

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Between 2000 and 2016, vehicle travel in Tennessee increased from about 65.7 billion miles per year to 77.7 billion miles per year, according to national transportation research nonprofit TRIP.

Parton hopes the upgraded rest stops bring jobs to Tennessean communities and highlight those that are underserved.

Her long-time manager, Danny Nozell, said in a press release he hopes the stop recharges people’s spirits.

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"This project reflects Dolly’s love for her home state and her commitment to supporting local business, community and the travelers who keep America moving," said Nozell.

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While renovations to bring "modern amenities, curated dining and authentic regional retail" spaces are underway at the Cornersville stop, it will remain open.

Dolly Parton’s holiday wonderland illuminates the Tennessee mountains with 6 million Christmas lights

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 12:20:40 -0500

Nestled in Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains lies a family theme park that transforms into a winter wonderland each Christmas season, complete with holiday treats, thrill rides and 6 million twinkling Christmas lights.

Dollywood, an amusement park inspired and co-owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, entertains millions of guests every year. Fox Nation's Madison Alworth got the chance to celebrate the holiday season with an inside look at what makes Christmastime in the park so special in "A Dollywood Christmas."

"I always say if you come to Dollywood this time of year, and you leave, and you're not in the Christmas spirit, then you're doing something wrong," said Dollywood Public Relations Director Wes Ramey. He remarked on the park's 6 million Christmas lights, which light up each winter as Dollywood prepares to welcome families to enjoy holiday festivities.

DOLLY PARTON REFUSES TO SLOW DOWN AT 79, FEELS LIKE SHE’S ‘JUST GETTING STARTED' DESPITE HEALTH SETBACKS

Parton herself is known for her love of the Christmas season. According to Ramey, "She frequently says that Christmas is her favorite time of year because it does mean family."

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Parton grew up in eastern Tennessee. The chance to share her childhood memories and help parkgoers "see the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains and just experience the warmth and friendliness of the people who work and live here" is quite special to her, Ramey said.

But Dollywood also has another goal. Parton wanted to give back to the community she cherishes.

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"The whole reason for Dollywood was actually two reasons," Ramey explained. "She wanted, first, to be able to give the folks who live in this area employment. So Dollywood certainly has done that. We're the largest employer in our county."

For a complete dive into Dollywood's Christmas magic, subscribers can enjoy "A Dollywood Christmas," streaming on Fox Nation.

Dolly Parton forced to skip Hall of Fame honor as doctors tell her to 'take it easy'

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 13:35:42 -0500

Dolly Parton apologized to fans for missing another event as she continues to deal with "a few health challenges."

Parton shared a video message with fans after being inducted into the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions Hall of Fame.

"Well, hey there, it's Dolly, and I sure wish I could be with you in person today, but you probably heard that I've been dealing with a few health challenges this fall," she said in a video shared on Instagram. "And my doctors told me to take it easy for just a little while. And I'm truly sorry I can't be there, but I sure wanted to take the chance to say thank you for this incredible honor."

Parton also thanked her Dollywood partners, Jack and Peter Herschend, for helping make her dreams come true, saying, "I trust them, and they trust me, and they always listen when I come in with one of my big ideas and dreams. And somehow the amazing team at Dollywood finds a way to make those dreams come true."

DOLLY PARTON MISSES DOLLYWOOD EVENT DUE TO HEALTH ISSUES

The induction ceremony isn't the first event Parton has missed due to ongoing health issues.

Parton assured fans she was fine back in October after she canceled a handful of appearances.

"Well, today's October the 8th, and obviously I'm here doing some commercials for the Grand Ole Opry, which is why I'm dressed kind of like a country western girl," Parton said in a video posted on Instagram. "But before I got started, I wanted to say, I know lately everybody thinks that I am sicker than I am. Do I look sick to you? I'm working hard here."

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Parton said her doctor urged her to take care of a few things, but reassured her fans it was "nothing major."

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"But anyway, there's just a lot of rumors flying around, but I figured if you heard it from me, you'd know that I was OK," she concluded. "So anyhow, that's what I wanted to say, and I'm not ready to die yet. I don't think God is through with me and I ain't done working. I love you for caring and keep praying for me."

She captioned the post, "I ain't dead yet!"

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Dolly Parton refuses to slow down at 79, feels like she’s ‘just getting started' despite health setbacks

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:22:38 -0500

Dolly Parton is not slowing down anytime soon.

Ahead of the release of her new book, "Star of the Show: My Life on Stage," the country music legend — whose husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, died in March — opened up about her impressive career spanning more than seven decades, got candid about the personal sacrifices she's made throughout the years and explained why she feels like she's "just getting started" as she gears up to turn 80 years old.

"You know, I have just been going so fast my whole life," Parton, 79, told People magazine. "And I just start thinking, ‘How in the world did I even have a life? How did I even get it done?’ I really realized when I was putting this book together just how much I had sacrificed in my life. I never had children, so at least I didn’t have a guilty feeling. I’m thankful that I got to see my dreams come true."

DOLLY PARTON POSTPONES LAS VEGAS RESIDENCY DUE TO HEALTH CONCERNS

In October, the country icon took to social media to give a much-anticipated update on her health, saying she was "not dying" just yet.

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Parton said her doctor urged her to take care of a few things, but reassured her fans it was "nothing major."

She captioned the post, "I ain't dead yet!"

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Throughout her career, Parton has faced both personal and professional challenges but has managed to find ways to overcome life's obstacles.

DOLLY PARTON'S SISTER ASKS WORLD TO PRAY FOR COUNTRY STAR AFTER HEALTH CHALLENGES FORCE CONCERT POSTPONEMENTS

"You have to grow into things, and you have to grow out of things; that’s how I handled my career," Parton told People. "I needed to try things. A lot of people think because you’re a girl, you don’t always know what you’re doing. I don’t care about what other people are doing. I only care about what I need to be doing."

"I’m not trying to outdo anybody except me. I just want to be my best self at all times and try to improve every day," she said. "It wasn’t about just being rich; it was about being successful at what I love to do. Dreams nor wishes come true without a lot of hard work."

Her faith, Parton said, plays a big part.

DOLLY PARTON MISSES DOLLYWOOD EVENT DUE TO HEALTH ISSUES

"I don’t try to tell other people how to do it, how to be, but I know who I am," Parton said. "I’m a star to everybody but me. I’m just a working girl. I always just say that I’m a workhorse that looks like a show horse."

Looking ahead, Parton is gearing up for her next major career move: the stage production "Dolly: A True Original Musical," which is set to open on Broadway in 2026.

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"I’m at that point in my life where I just want to be able to do good things that can be carried on. I’m proud of my legacy so far, and I hope to just continue to do things that might be of use to other people," she told the outlet.

"I’ve had to wear my heart on my sleeve for a long time now, and I cry easier than I used to. But it’s just leaving your life wide open for everybody to look right at you, right through you and right into you … I hope they see my heart."

Reba McEntire calls out AI-generated fake pregnancy photos and Dolly Parton 'deathbed' images

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 19:16:04 -0400

Reba McEntire is firing back at the use of AI-generated images.

The "Fancy" singer posted a message on her Instagram stories Thursday to slam the use of AI-generated images in support of fellow country music star Dolly Parton.

"You tell 'em, Dolly," McEntire wrote. "That AI mess has got us doing all kinds of crazy things. You're out there dying, I'm out here having a baby. Well, both of us know you're too young, and I'm too old for any of that kind of nonsense."

McEntire was referring to AI-generated images that showed the star, 70, and fiancé Rex Linn posing with an ultrasound photo as Linn cradles McEntire's pregnant stomach.

DOLLY PARTON GIVES KELLY CLARKSON, REBA MCENTIRE ADVICE ON COPING WITH GRIEF AFTER BRANDON BLACKSTOCK'S DEATH

Another fake photo making the rounds online recently featured Parton lying in a hospital bed attached to a tube as McEntire sits at her bedside praying and wiping away tears from her eyes.

Reps for McEntire did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

The image of Parton on her "deathbed" began circulating after Parton announced last month that due to certain "health challenges," her scheduled six-night residency in Las Vegas would be postponed from December 2025 to September 2026.

In response to the images, Parton posted a video on Instagram telling her followers, "If I was really dying, I don’t think Reba would be the one at my death bed," adding she hopes McEntire "might come visit me earlier."

The singer's sister, Frieda, further raised concerns about Parton's health when she asked fans to join her in prayer for the songstress.

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"Many of you know she hasn’t been feeling her best lately," Frieda wrote on Facebook. "I truly believe in the power of prayer, and I have been lead to ask all of the world that loves her to be prayer warriors and pray with me."

Parton took to Instagram earlier this week to dispel rumors she was dying, telling her fans, "I'm not ready to die yet."

"I didn't take care of myself, so I let a lot of things go that I should have been taking care of," Parton explained. "When I got around to it, the doctor said we need to take care of this, we need to take care of that. Nothing major, but I did have to cancel some things so I could be closer to home, closer to Vanderbilt where I'm kind of having some treatments here and there."

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McEntire also touched on the health concerns Parton alluded to in her recent Instagram story, letting her friend know, "You better know I'm praying for you. I love you with all my heart, and I can't wait to see you soon. Love you!"

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Dolly Parton says she's 'not ready to die yet' while addressing health rumors

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:15:23 -0400

Dolly Parton is easing the minds of her fans as she continues to battle various health issues.

On Wednesday, the country icon took to social media to give a much-anticipated update on her health one day after her sister, Freida, sparked concern among supporters after asking for prayers.

"Well, today's October the eighth, and obviously I'm here doing some commercials for the Grand Ola Opry, which is why I'm dressed kind of like a country western girl," Dolly said in a video posted on Instagram. "But before I got started, I wanted to say, I know lately everybody thinks that I am sicker than I am. Do I look sick to you? I'm working hard here."

DOLLY PARTON'S SISTER ASKS WORLD TO PRAY FOR COUNTRY STAR AFTER HEALTH CHALLENGES FORCE CONCERT POSTPONEMENTS

Dolly said her doctor urged her to take care of a few things, but reassured her fans it was "nothing major."

She captioned the post, "I ain't dead yet!"

Hours after asking Dolly's fans to pray for her sister, Freida took to social media to offer a small update on the country icon's health.

"I want to clear something up. I didn’t mean to scare anyone or make it sound so serious when asking for prayers for Dolly," she wrote on Facebook. "She’s been a little under the weather, and I simply asked for prayers because I believe so strongly in the power of prayer. It was nothing more than a little sister asking for prayers for her big sister. Thank you all for lifting her up. Your love truly makes a difference."

Earlier that day, Freida wrote that she had been "up all night" praying for Dolly.

"Last night, I was up all night praying for my sister, Dolly," Freida wrote in a Facebook post. "Many of you know she hasn’t been feeling her best lately."

Freida added that she truly believes in the "power of prayer, and I have been lead to ask all of the world that loves her to be prayer warriors and pray with me. She’s strong, she’s loved, and with all the prayers being lifted for her, I know in my heart she’s going to be just fine. Godspeed, my sissy Dolly. We all love you!"

On Sept. 28, the "Jolene" singer told fans she would need to postpone the concerts for her Las Vegas residency in a social media post.

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"I want the fans and public to hear directly from me that, unfortunately, I will need to postpone my upcoming Las Vegas concerts," Dolly shared online. "As many of you know, I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures."

She was scheduled to perform in Sin City at the end of the year, with six performances at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace.

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"As I joked with them, it must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up, although it's not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon," she continued. "In all seriousness, given this, I am not going to be able to rehearse and put together the show that I want you to see, and the show that you deserve to see."

Dolly continued, "You pay good money to see me perform, and I want to be at my best for you."

DOLLY PARTON UNABLE TO WRITE NEW SONGS AFTER LOSING HUSBAND OF NEARLY 60 YEARS

"While I'll still be able to work on all of my projects from here in Nashville, I just need a little time to get show ready, as they say," she added. "And don't worry about me quittin' the business because God hasn't said anything about stopping yet."

The "9 to 5" musician said, "He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you. I love you and thank you for understanding."

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Fox News Digital's Brie Stimson contributed to this post.

Dolly Parton's sister asks world to pray for country star after health challenges force concert postponements

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 18:27:17 -0400

Dolly Parton’s sister, Freida Parton, asked for prayers for the country star Tuesday, a week after the singer announced she would have to postpone concerts at her Las Vegas residency due to medical procedures.

"Last night, I was up all night praying for my sister, Dolly," Freida wrote in a Facebook post. "Many of you know she hasn’t been feeling her best lately."

Fox News Digital has reached out to representatives for Parton for comment.

DOLLY PARTON UNABLE TO WRITE NEW SONGS AFTER LOSING HUSBAND OF NEARLY 60 YEARS

On Sept. 28, the "Jolene" singer told fans she would need to postpone the concerts for her Las Vegas residency in a social media post.

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"I want the fans and public to hear directly from me that, unfortunately, I will need to postpone my upcoming Las Vegas concerts," Parton shared online. "As many of you know, I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures."

Parton was scheduled to perform in Sin City at the end of the year, with six performances at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace.

SYDNEY SWEENEY’S DOLLY PARTON-INSPIRED WESTERN WILL BENEFIT FROM AD BACKLASH: EXPERT

"As I joked with them, it must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up, although it's not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon," Parton continued. "In all seriousness, given this, I am not going to be able to rehearse and put together the show that I want you to see, and the show that you deserve to see."

Parton continued, "You pay good money to see me perform, and I want to be at my best for you."

"While I'll still be able to work on all of my projects from here in Nashville, I just need a little time to get show ready, as they say," Parton added. "And don't worry about me quittin' the business because God hasn't said anything about stopping yet."

The "9 to 5" musician believed: "He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you. I love you and thank you for understanding."

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The "I Will Always Love You" writer shared that the shows would be rescheduled for September of next year.

Earlier in September, Parton also missed an event at Dollywood marking the opening of a new roller coaster.

"Hello Dollywood! It’s me," the 79-year-old told parkgoers in a video. "I know – and I’m here, and you’re there. And you’re wondering why that is? Well, I had a little problem."

She explained that she had a kidney stone that had caused an infection, "and the doctor said, ‘You don’t need to be traveling right this minute, so you need a few days to get better.’"

"So, he suggested I not go to Dollywood today, but I’m there with you in spirit," she added. "I was looking so forward to it."

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Parton lost her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, 82, in March after the couple had been married for nearly 60 years.

Fox News Digital's Tracy Wright contributed to this report.

Dolly Parton postpones Las Vegas residency due to health concerns

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 18:20:56 -0400

Dolly Parton made the difficult decision to postpone a string of Las Vegas concerts on doctors' orders.

Parton, 79, told fans Sunday on Instagram that she needed to undergo a "few procedures," but wouldn't be quitting the music business any time soon.

DOLLY PARTON MISSES DOLLYWOOD EVENT DUE TO HEALTH ISSUES

The "Jolene" singer was scheduled to perform in Sin City at the end of the year, with six performances at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace.

DOLLY PARTON'S HUSBAND, CARL DEAN, DEAD AT 82

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Parton continued, "You pay good money to see me perform, and I want to be at my best for you."

The "9 to 5" musician believed: "He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you. I love you and thank you for understanding."

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In a second slide, Parton revealed December's shows were now planned for September 2026.

Parton's representatives did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

Earlier this month, the legendary country star skipped out on a Dollywood event in celebration of the theme park's latest attraction, the new Night Flight Expedition ride. In a video shared at the event, Parton explained her absence, citing health issues.

"Hello Dollywood! It’s me," she told attendees. "I know – and I’m here, and you’re there. And you’re wondering why that is? Well, I had a little problem."

"I had a kidney stone that was causing me a lot of problems, turned out it’d given me an infection, and the doctor said, ‘You don’t need to be traveling right this minute, so you need a few days to get better,’" she continued.

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"So, he suggested I not go to Dollywood today, but I’m there with you in spirit," she added. "I was looking so forward to it."

Dolly Parton misses Dollywood event due to health issues

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:17:11 -0400

Dolly Parton is never one to disappoint her fans, but health comes first.

On Wednesday, the legendary country star skipped out on a Dollywood event in celebration of the theme park's latest attraction, the new Night Flight Expedition ride. In a video shared at the event, Parton explained her absence, citing health issues.

"Hello Dollywood! It’s me," she told attendees. "I know – and I’m here, and you’re there. And you’re wondering why that is? Well, I had a little problem."

DOLLY PARTON ADMITS HUSBAND CARL DEAN'S DEATH HAS BEEN 'BIG ADJUSTMENT' AFTER 60-YEAR ROMANCE

"So, he suggested I not go to Dollywood today, but I’m there with you in spirit," she added. "I was looking so forward to it."

A representative for Parton did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

Parton has had a tough year.

In March, the country star announced her 82-year-old husband, Carl Dean, had died.

"Carl and I spent many wonderful years together," she wrote in an Instagram statement at the time. "Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy."

The country music star later shared a message of thanks.

"This is a love note to family, friends, and fans," Parton wrote. "Thank you for all the messages, cards, and flowers that you've sent to pay your respects for the loss of my beloved husband, Carl. I can't reach out personally to each of you, but just know it has meant the world to me."

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Despite her loss, she surprised guests at Dollywood's Celebrity Theater in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, in honor of the theme park's 40th anniversary just two weeks after Carl's death.

"Of course I will always love him, and I'll miss him, but I wanted you to know that I will always love you," Parton told guests, according to 7News.

During an appearance on Khloé Kardashian’s podcast, "Khloé in Wonder Land," three months later, Parton opened up about how the loss has impacted her, both personally and professionally.

"My husband passed away three months ago… [There are] several things I have wanted to start, but I can’t do it," Parton shared.

"I will later," she added. "I’m just coming up with such wonderful, beautiful ideas, but I think I won’t finish it. I can’t do it right now, because I got so many other things."

After Dean died, the "Jolene" singer explained that the pain was too fresh for her to dive back into songwriting at the moment.

"I can’t afford the luxury of, you know, getting that emotional right now," she told Kardashian. "There are times like that, things like that, that will stall you a little bit. But I’ll write something else though, if it comes."

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"I’m just putting that all on hold," Parton said.

Fox News Digital's Stephanie Giang-Paunon contributed to this report.

Dolly Parton gives Kelly Clarkson, Reba McEntire advice on coping with grief after Brandon Blackstock's death

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 17:00:48 -0400

Dolly Parton has some advice for Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire as they grieve the loss of Brandon Blackstock.

The country superstar, who counts Clarkson and McEntire as friends, was asked during an interview with Entertainment Tonight about what she'd say to them about Blackstock's death – Clarkson was his ex-wife and the mother of his two youngest children, while McEntire was his former stepmother.

"I think that you just have to be grateful for the years that you've had with someone, and you just try to remember the very best of all that," she said. "Take their energy that they had given you then, and you just kind of recycle that, and let that become a part of you. Just honor their memory and just know they're in a better place than we are these days."

Parton, who is herself mourning her husband, Carl Dean, after his death earlier this year, said that she hadn't had a chance to speak with either woman yet, but that she has "love" for both of them.

KELLY CLARKSON REMAINED PROTECTIVE OF EX BRANDON BLACKSTOCK DESPITE LEGAL BATTLE AND MESSY DIVORCE

McEntire took to Instagram on Tuesday to pay tribute to her former stepson, who died on August 7. She posted a carousel of photos featuring her and Blackstock spending time together fishing, hugging and posing with a chicken.

"Last week, my stepson/oldest son Brandon Blackstock went home to be with God His struggle is over and he is in eternal peace in God’s presence. There is no one else like him, and I’m thankful for the time we had together. His legacy and laughter will be carried on through his family. Rest in peace cowboy. Happy trails to you til we meet again."

McEntire became Blackstock's stepmother during her marriage to his father, Narvel Blackstock, from 1989 to 2015. In that time, she was also stepmother to his two other children, Chassidy and Shawna, and despite them being her stepchildren, McEntire has always made it clear she considers them hers.

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"Brandon’s been my son forever, it seems. Although he’s my stepson, I still love him like he’s my total — my blood," she told Entertainment Tonight in 2021.

She had previously told The Boot in 2010 that she doesn't "consider Brandon, Chassidy and Shawna stepchildren."

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Blackstock died at the age of 48 after a private three-year battle with cancer. His cause of death was melanoma, a form of skin cancer.

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"Brandon Blackstock passed away peacefully at his home in Butte, Montana on August 7th under hospice care surrounded by his family," Silver Bow County Coroner Dan Hollis told Fox News Digital.

Blackstock leaves behind his parents, siblings and four children: Savannah, Seth, River Rose and Remington.

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Sydney Sweeney's Dolly Parton-inspired Western will benefit from ad backlash: expert

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 09:00:29 -0400

Sydney Sweeney is channeling Dolly Parton in her new Western heist movie "Americana," set to be released on the heels of the actress's American Eagle "Good Jeans" ad.

In the film, debuting in theaters Aug. 15, Sweeney, 27, stars as Penny Jo Poplin, a small-town diner waitress who is obsessed with the country icon and dreams of following in her footsteps.

"Dolly is definitely her biggest aspirational role model," Sweeney said of her character during a June interview with Entertainment Weekly.

She continued, "Dolly is almost like a godlike figure to Penny Jo, and I really wanted to make sure that we had the aspirations of being Dolly, but then, she doesn't have the resources."

SYDNEY SWEENEY'S BROTHER MAKES CHEEKY 'GOOD JEANS' JOKE AFTER HIS AIR FORCE PROMOTION

"It's trying to find that in-between place of who Penny is and what she has," Sweeney added. "But then also who she wants to be. Penny Jo dreams of being able to have Dolly's outlook on life because her world feels so gray, dark, and trapped. [Dolly has] this beautiful big personality and energy that makes everything have color again, and that's what she wants."

In "Americana," Penny Jo, who is also an aspiring country music singer-songwriter, joins forces with lovelorn military veteran and ranch-hand Lefty Ledbetter (Paul Walter Hauser) to procure a rare Native American artifact — a Lakota Ghost Shirt — after it lands on the black market in their South Dakota town.

However, Penny Jo and Lefty's pursuit of the valuable artifact "puts them in the crosshairs of a ruthless criminal working for a Western antiquities dealer, and soon, others, including the leader of an Indigenous group and a woman fleeing a mysterious past, join the battle for the Ghost Shirt," according to a plot synopsis for the movie.

"She finally sees something that can be her ticket to Nashville," Sweeney told Entertainment Weekly. "It's her ticket to be able to go and chase her dreams. And she's past the point of waiting for it to happen."

"Americana" marks the directorial debut of screenwriter Tony Tost, who also wrote the screenplay. The movie also stars pop singer Halsey, Eric Dane, Zahn McClarnon and Simon Rex.

Though "Americana" originally premiered at the 2023 South by Southwest Film & TV Festival, the movie's worldwide release date comes as drama continues to swirl over Sweeney's July American Eagle ad campaign.

However, PR expert Eric Schiffer shared his view that Sweeney's character will be a big draw for audiences, and the timing of the release will prove to be serendipitous for the production.

"She plays Penny Jo, a waitress who worships Dolly; that disarming sweetness offsets the AE edge and broadens demo reach," the Reputation Management Consultants CEO told Fox News Digital.

He continued, "Country-curious teens and red-state moms will test-drive the movie; coastal critics bring pitiless scrutiny — perfect storm for sales."

Last month, the clothing retailer debuted their ad campaign titled "Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans," which received a mixed response on social media.

Some dubbed the campaign as "tone-deaf" due to the alleged racial undertones, others have praised Sweeney for killing "woke" advertising.

In a promo video posted to the brand's Instagram, Sweeney was seen walking toward an AE billboard featuring her and the tagline "Sydney Sweeney Has Great Genes." Sweeney crossed out "Genes" and replaced it with "Jeans" before walking away.

In a second ad, Sweeney was seen laying down and fastening her jeans while saying, "Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality and even eye color." The camera then panned up to her blue eyes. "My jeans are blue."

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The ad's detractors have suggested that it has shades of "eugenics" and "White supremacy." According to Salon, the term "great genes" was historically used to "celebrate whiteness, thinness and attractiveness."

American Eagle released a statement on its social media on Aug. 1, which read, "’Sydney Sweeney Has Great Jeans’ is and always was about the jeans. Her jeans. Her story. We’ll continue to celebrate how everyone wears their AE jeans with confidence, their way. Great jeans look good on everyone."

Sweeney has yet to publicly comment on the ad or its reception.

While speaking with Fox News Digital, Schiffer explained how controversy could potentially turbocharge the actress's career along with her net worth.

"The AE firestorm shoved Sweeney into toxic culture-war crosshairs — exactly where attention monetizes fastest," he said. "Backlash may spook a few ‘safe’ brands, but risk-tolerant studios will ruthlessly overpay for her heat.

"American Eagle’s denim blitz could jam an outrage cocktail of $5 million more in Sweeney’s wallet before Labor Day," Schiffer added. "The viral jeans spot is a ruthless napalm-grade cash cannon — every click fires fresh royalty checks at her $40 million pile. Critics rant, but controversy drives denim sales — she’s riding a volatile tornado straight to the bank."

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Schiffer also explained that the backlash the actress has received could lead to an influx of career opportunities for her.

"Outrage addicts labeled the ad ‘eugenics’ but Hollywood execs smell radioactive buzz and cast her faster," he said. "Hollywood forgives denim puns; it rewards controversial cash."

Schiffer continued, "She proved she can take heat and directors love an actress with fierce armor. Her blend of bombshell and backlash is near lethal catnip for producers. Hollywood loves a polarizing star with a merciless marketing punch that sells."

However, PR expert Steve Honig voiced his opinion that the backlash was unlikely to affect Sweeney's career.

"Regardless of which side you are on, the ads have undeniably gotten the actress, and the company, more attention and publicity than they have ever had. Judging by the public’s split opinion, I don’t think this will have much, if any, impact on Sweeney’s career or upcoming projects," he said. "She is a popular, up-and-coming talent with a bright future ahead of her."

Honig went on to cite other ad campaigns that saw great success by courting controversy.

AMERICAN EAGLE FIRES BACK AT CRITICS AFTER SYDNEY SWEENEY CAMPAIGN SPARKS ONLINE BACKLASH

"Historically, ads for jeans have been provocative," he noted. "Look back to Calvin Klein’s advertising campaign in the early 1980s featuring Brooke Shields; there was a lot of criticism about how a 15-year-old girl was being portrayed. The ads turned out to have a positive result for both Klein and Shields, and in many ways put the actress/model on the map."

Honig continued, "As far as the Sweeney ads being too sexual or aimed at ‘male gazing,’ I would point to the highly successful Pepsi ad campaign with Cindy Crawford, which was recently rebooted. Gloria Vanderbilt’s advertising campaign was all about her name being on a woman’s backside."

"The bottom line here is that American Eagle decided to push the envelope in much the same way Klein and Vanderbilt did," he added. "Like it or not, the campaign is sparking discussion and getting a lot of notice, which is likely what they set out to do."

In addition to "Americana," Sweeney also has several other projects in the works. The actress is set to return for the third season of the hit HBO series "Euphoria," which is aiming for a 2026 release, according to Deadline.

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Sweeney is also starring as real-life former professional boxer Christy Martin in the upcoming biographical sports drama "Christy." The Washington native produced the film through her company, Fifty-Fifty Films, along with several other production companies, including Anonymous Content, Yoki, Inc., Votiv and Black Bear Pictures.

The actress will next be seen starring alongside Amanda Seyfried, Brandon Sklenar, and Michele Morrone in Paul Feig's upcoming film "The Housemaid," which is based on Freida McFadden's 2022 novel. "The Housemaid" will be released in theaters on Dec. 25.

Fox News Digital's Janelle Ash contributed to this report.

Dollywood tops Disney parks in best amusement park rankings survey

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 12:15:12 -0400

A new survey revealed which amusement parks in America are the best — andthe top spot may (or may not) surprise you.

Tripadvisor released its "Best of the Best Things to Do" report after conducting research across all high-volume reviews and eight million opinions from the Tripadvisor community in the past 12 months.

"Get ready to scream, splash, soar through the sky, and escape into your favorite worlds at these winning parks," reads the announcement ranking the amusement and water parks.

AMUSEMENT PARK RIDE SNAPS AT SAUDI ARABIA PARK, WITH 23 REPORTED INJURED

Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, ranked first on the list, at 4.3 out of 5.

The park is co-owned by the iconic Dolly Parton, who grew up around the Smoky Mountains in the Big Bender state.

Dollywood has 50 rides spanning over 160 acres, according to its website.

NATURE VIEWS, THERAPY LLAMAS AND 'IMPECCABLE' BATHROOMS GIVE BOOST TO 'BEST' AIRPORTS

"The park has a downhome feel with singalongs and a museum dedicated to Parton's life, plus high-velocity roller coasters and thrill rides," reads Tripadvisor’s report.

Dollywood also has an art scene with performances, glassblowing showcases and artisans making pottery.

One reviewer left five stars, writing, "We had a great time at this theme park."

"It was very hot. However, the park offers shaded areas and free ice water!" the person continued.

"There were also fans placed around the park. They care about their guests."

Dollywood beat out Disney and Universal parks. Coming out in second place was Magic Kingdom Park.

Located in Bay Lake, Florida, the park is dubbed "The Most Magical Place on Earth."

Magic Kingdom is home to some of the most popular Disney attractions, such as Space Mountain, Jungle Cruise and Cinderella’s castle.

"There’s also a nightly fireworks show, musical parades, and meet and greets with your favorite Disney characters," Tripadvisor notes.

In third place is Knoebels Amusement Resort, located in Elysburg, Pennsylvania.

The park has been family-owned and operated since 1926.

Tripadvisor notes it is America’s largest free-admission amuseument park.

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It has "roller coasters, kid-friendly rides (bumper cars, a haunted mansion), swimming, camping, a mining museum, and even a championship 18-hole golf course."

Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Bay Lake, Florida, took fourth place.

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The park has some of Disney’s most thrilling rides, such as the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and the Aerosmith-themed Rock 'n' Roller Coaster.

Rounding out the top five was the Universal Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida.

"Universal Islands of Adventure — one of two parks at Universal Orlando — is home to superheroes and magical creatures," notes Tripadvisor.

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"One of the highlights is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can ride Hagrid's Motorbike," the report adds.

"Don't miss the Velocicoaster, a high-speed coaster."

Dolly Parton altered Playboy bunny outfit for magazine cover to respect religious fans: author

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 05:00:55 -0400

Dolly Parton has always cared about her fans.

In 1978, that meant requesting a special costume for her iconic Playboy photo shoot that wouldn't offend the more religious members of her fanbase.

Lawrence Grobel, famed celebrity interviewer, was the journalist who spoke to Parton for the intimate, wide-ranging interview, and in diary entries he wrote at the time, which were recently shared with Vanity Fair, he explained her and her team's thought process behind agreeing to the Playboy interview in the first place.

DOLLY PARTON ON ‘NEVER RETIRING’ AND THE FAITH THAT HELPED HER THROUGH HER HUSBAND'S DEATH

"Her manager, Sandy Gallin, told her that Playboy is the classiest magazine to do an interview," he wrote. "But there are some Bible-totin’ folks who are her fans and that concerns her. She’ll pose for the cover if the bunny costume can be altered so the crotch can be lowered and she doesn’t reveal too much boob."

Fox News Digital reached out to Parton's representative for comment.

In the actual 1978 interview, Parton said that when it came to posing for the cover, "I was afraid at first, when we talked about it. I didn’t want to be naked or something on the front of a magazine unless everybody knew it was a joke."

She continued, "I mean, I wouldn’t want to be naked even then. It might not offend me, but I was afraid maybe a lot of my country fans and some of the people who love me who are of a religious nature might not understand."

The "I Will Always Love You" singer acknowledged that people would "make jokes and things, not because of my beauty but just because of that physical thing that’s built around my boobs," and she said that made her question doing the shoot.

"Then I thought, it isn’t something I should be ashamed of," she said. "Playboy’s a real classy magazine. And I mean, who else but Dolly Parton should be on the cover of Playboy? If you wanted an outrageous person to be an outrageous magazine cover, who else? I just hope people will take it in the spirit in which I did it—you know, something cute and off-the-wall for me."

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In his diary, Grobel described Parton as "funny, charming, disarming," and wrote that it was "easy to talk to her," but "difficult to interrupt." He also wrote that she "has no trouble talking about anything, though when I asked her how old she was when she lost her virginity, she said if she told me, people would think she was perverted."

The writer noted in another entry after another conversation with her: "Of all the stars I’ve met, she’s the most naturally flirtatious."

In 2024, Parton spoke about her Playboy cover, telling Business Insider that while she was "comfortable" with the photo shoot she did, "I was not going to do any of the layouts, the nudity and all that."

DOLLY PARTON UNABLE TO WRITE NEW SONGS AFTER LOSING HUSBAND OF NEARLY 60 YEARS

She explained, "I always have to feel in my gut what I can and can't do, what I will and won't do. And I was never going to do the spreads, if you pardon the expression."

Parton said at one point that she wanted to do another Playboy cover when she was 75. (The country legend celebrated that birthday in 2021.) By that time, the magazine had already gone out of print, but she kept true to her word, putting a similar black bunny costume on and sharing her look in a video she posted on Instagram.

The specific reason that she shared in the video was to celebrate the birthday of her longtime husband, Carl Dean, who passed away earlier this year.

"I was trying to think of something to do to make him happy," Parton told her followers at the time. "He still thinks I'm a hot chick after 57 years and I'm not gonna try to talk him out of that."

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She added that he'd "always loved" the original 1978 cover, and in addition to wearing the costume for him in person, she did a special photo shoot for him, even gifting him a photo frame holding both the original cover and a new photo of her in the iconic black corset with matching black rabbit ears.

Though she said Dean still thought she was a "hot chick" then, she told Playboy in 1978 that she'd never seen herself that way.

"I never thought of myself as being a sex symbol," she said then. "It never crossed my mind that anybody might think I was sexy."

She said she didn't want the "responsibility" of being sexy, and explained that while she does enjoy her "gaudy" looks, she doesn't find them sexy. If she were actually trying to look that way, she explained, she'd make different choices.

"But why bother?" Parton asked. "I’m already married and he don’t mind how I look. He likes me gaudy or ungaudy."

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Dolly Parton worried about Charles Manson’s ‘darkness,’ thought he could steal souls: author

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 05:00:03 -0400

For Dolly Parton, spirituality is nothing to take lightly.

The country music superstar has often spoken out about her faith over the years, but in a conversation with famed celebrity interviewer Lawrence Grobel, Parton revealed just how intensely she feels about the topic.

Grobel, who has interviewed and written about a number of celebrities over his decades-long career, recently shared some diary entries with Vanity Fair – many of them describe conversations he's had with Parton, who he first met in 1978.

DOLLY PARTON LEANS ON FAITH TO NAVIGATE LOSS OF HUSBAND CARL DEAN

The two became friends, and in 1981, after he was presented with an opportunity to interview notorious serial killer Charles Manson, he asked Parton for her thoughts on the matter, since he'd been having trouble deciding whether he wanted to go through with it.

"I think he’d steal your soul," she told him, per Grobel's diary entry. "I can’t even look at a picture of him."

She told him that if he were to interview Manson, "I know I wouldn’t want to have much to do with you."

The "Jolene" singer told Grobel that he "wouldn't make a difference" by interviewing Manson because any attention the story got would go to the infamous killer, who was convicted in 1971 of the murders of seven people.

"I know it’s an amazing story," she said, "but being the way we are, you and me, with the wonderful, pure force in you, just one minute with him could destroy all that we can be about. That’s how spirits work. You’d have to be brave to deal with him, and I know you are, but it’s something you don’t tempt God with. I’d be afraid it would get to me."

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Grobel wrote that Parton had told him that "this devil has come up between us," referring to Manson, and that she said that if he did choose to do the interview, "You and me would be more like in a battle and I’d be looking at you differently, because it would change you and you may not even know it. The darkness is something not to get involved with."

The author ultimately declined the interview, and in his diary, he wrote that Parton "pretty much made my decision for me."

DOLLY PARTON'S ‘TO HELL WITH YOU’ APPROACH FUELED DECADES OF SUCCESS

"No candy if I play with the devil," he remarked.

While the cult leader wasn't known to worship Satan as some people believed, he did invoke some Satanic imagery in public statements he made.

At one point during his trial, Manson arrived to court with a shaved head, declaring, "I am the devil, and the devil always has a bald head." At a 1986 parole hearing, he said, "From behind the time locks of courtrooms and from the worlds of darkness, I did let loose devils and demons with the power of scorpions to torment."

Grobel previously recounted the story of Parton's concerns about Manson on his website in 2017. There, he wrote that Parton was surprised that he had even needed to think about whether he wanted to do the interview, calling Manson "evil incarnate."

He remembered her saying, "And to tell you the truth, that you even have to think about this concerns me."

He also said that following the conversation, the country legend "kept her distance" from him.

Parton has long been open about her beliefs, telling Fox News Digital in 2023 that she asks God to keep "the right people" in her life and to take "the wrong ones" out of it.

"My faith impacts everything that I do because I do believe that, through God, all things are possible," she said at the time. "And so I always ask God to bless everything that I do and the people that I work with and to bring all the right things and right people into my life and to take the wrong ones out.

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"So, I try to just live through love as much as I can. And so I just think that my spirituality has been a guiding light in my life and my strength, really, in my creative energy. And my spiritual energy has really been a great force to keep me going all these years and still being productive."

Earlier this month, Parton appeared on Khloé Kardashian's "Khloe in Wonder Land" podcast, where she admitted that people have told her that she shouldn't speak so much about her faith.

"I said, 'Well, yes I should,’" she told Kardashian. "I’m not telling you what to do. I’m just telling you what makes me work, what I believe."

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She said that if God can "shine through" her to other people, that's good enough for her.

Dolly Parton unable to write new songs after losing husband of nearly 60 years

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 11:47:34 -0400

Country legend Dolly Parton is hitting pause on her next musical chapter as she grieves the loss of her longtime husband, Carl Dean.

After her husband’s death, the beloved country singer opened up about the way she coped with his passing and how it impacted her creativity.

"My husband passed away three months ago… [There are] several things I have wanted to start, but I can’t do it," Parton shared on Khloé Kardashian’s podcast, "Khloé in Wonder Land."

DOLLY PARTON ADMITS HUSBAND CARL DEAN'S DEATH HAS BEEN 'BIG ADJUSTMENT' AFTER 60-YEAR ROMANCE

"I will later," she added. "I’m just coming up with such wonderful, beautiful ideas, but I think I won’t finish it. I can’t do it right now, because I got so many other things."

After Dean died in March at the age of 82, the "Jolene" singer explained that the pain is too fresh for her to dive back into songwriting at the moment.

"I can’t afford the luxury of, you know, getting that emotional right now," she remarked. "There are times like that, things like that, that will stall you a little bit. But I’ll write something else though, if it comes."

"I’m just putting that all on hold," Parton said.

The country icon has previously spoken out about her deep connection with her longtime husband.

Throughout their decades-long marriage, Parton gave a glimpse into their private life — a key ingredient to their almost 60-year marriage, she said.

When asked whether privacy played a role in their lasting bond, Parton told Kardashian, "It certainly… had a lot to do with it."

DOLLY PARTON REFUSES TO JUDGE 'AMERICAN IDOL' OR 'THE VOICE' FOR THIS REASON

"We were different people. He was not involved in the music business at all," she continued. "He loved music, but he was a loner… He did not want a bunch of people around him, except me."

"Of course he had friends," she added, "But he was also the same way. He’d rather be at the barn, be on the farm all day."

Despite their differences, Parton shared that their connection was built on something deeper — a rare compatibility that made their relationship strong for over six decades.

"I really think there’s just certain personalities that are great for each other… we were together for 61 years," she said. "We were just so different, but we’re so similar… we were perfect… so many things we were compatible about… and we just got along great."

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Parton first met Dean at a laundromat in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1964 when she was 18 and he was 21. The couple tied the knot two years later.

Parton announced Dean's death in a heartfelt statement that she shared on Instagram on March 3.

"Carl and I spent many wonderful years together," the "9 to 5" singer wrote. "Words can't do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy."

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Dolly Parton on 'never retiring' and the faith that helped her through husband's death

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 17:02:23 -0400

At 79, legendary music artist and entrepreneur Dolly Parton said she has no plans to slow down, but behind her busy schedule, she draws strength from something deeper to face life’s toughest moments: her faith.

Parton lost her husband, Carl Dean, in March after nearly six decades of marriage, marking a profound change in her life. Through the grief, she said her belief in God has helped sustain her.

"My faith has helped me through it all because I am a person of faith, even though I lost him on this earthly plane," Parton told "America Reports" on Thursday. "I miss him every day."

"Knowing that he’s in God’s arms now and not mine, but he's still in my heart and in my memories — I treasure all that, and that’s how I get through my work and my faith that’s carried me on through."

DOLLY PARTON ADMITS HUSBAND CARL DEAN'S DEATH HAS BEEN 'BIG ADJUSTMENT' AFTER 60-YEAR ROMANCE

Parton and Dean were married in 1966 in Ringgold, Ga., a place they returned to "every year" around their anniversary. This year, she made the journey alone.

DOLLY PARTON LEANS ON FAITH TO NAVIGATE LOSS OF HUSBAND CARL DEAN

"I went down there the other day on our anniversary," she said. "I felt like he was there with me, and I put his wedding ring around my little gold chain and wore it. I wore my little original wedding rings, and I just stood there."

Despite her loss, Parton hasn’t slowed down. In the past year alone, she released an album titled "Smoky Mountain DNA: Family, Faith and Fables," marked the 40th anniversary of her Dollywood theme park, wrote a children’s book, and prepared for the premiere of a Broadway musical based on her life.

DOLLY PARTON IS 'DOING BETTER THAN I THOUGHT,' TWO WEEKS AFTER HER HUSBAND'S DEATH

"I love my work. I don't ever want to retire," said the 11-time Grammy winner. "Everything that you do, it’s just like a tree with many branches, with many leaves, and every dream — new dreams just kind of work off of them."

DOLLY PARTON SURPRISES FANS WITH FIRST PUBLIC APPEARANCE SINCE HUSBAND'S DEVASTATING DEATH

The "dreamer-in-chief" joked about retirement only happening if she gets sick or "just falls over dead," and said each new project gives her more purpose and drive.

"I really feel like I'm doing what I was meant to do. Every new thing gives me, just, new energy. Energy begets energy, as they say."

DOLLY PARTON SAYS LATE HUSBAND IS IN 'GOD'S ARMS NOW'

Throughout it all, she credits her faith as the foundation of her strength and resilience.

"I remember scriptures from the Bible like, ‘Through God, all things are possible,’ and, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’ — not to sound like a preacher," Parton said.

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"I think if you grab on to those things, and you use that for strength and inspiration, there's just a lot of stuff that can be done, if you really believe that it's going to happen, and you have faith."

Dolly Parton leans on faith to navigate loss of husband Carl Dean

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 06:00:20 -0400

Dolly Parton shared how she is leaning on her faith as she copes with the loss of her husband of almost 60 years, Carl Dean.

During a new interview with The Associated Press, the 79-year-old country legend opened up about how her belief in God has helped her navigate the grief she has endured since Dean died in March at 82.

"I am a person of faith, and I truly believe that I’m going to see him again someday," Parton said.

DOLLY PARTON'S LATE HUSBAND, CARL DEAN, INSPIRED ONE OF HER GREATEST HITS

"And I see him every day in my memories and in my heart and in all the things that we used to do and all the things that we’ve built together," she continued. "You just kind of have to learn to kind of make new plans, but that’s the hardest part."

Despite Dean's death, the "Jolene" singer said she believes her late husband's spirit is still with her.

"I really feel his presence," Parton said. "I just try to go on because I know I have to. And he was ill for quite a while, and part of me was at peace that he was at peace and not suffering anymore. But that still doesn’t make up for the loss and the loneliness of it."

Parton explained that Dean had always been her biggest supporter and insisted that her plans for what she hopes to achieve in the future have not changed in the wake of her loss.

"I just think that I’ve always had dreams, and I’m always working. My husband understood that. Carl knew that better than anybody, and he was all about it. He was very proud of me," she told AP.

Parton continued, "So when I did lose him, I just thought, ‘Well, I’m going to take all of that energy and I’m just going to put that back into other things, and I’ll keep him ever-present in everything that I do.’"

Faith has always played a large role in Parton's life. The 10-time Grammy Award winner was raised in a devout Christian family in rural Tennessee, and her grandfather, the Rev. Jake Owens, was a Pentecostal preacher.

Parton has previously spoken out about how her faith has kept her grounded and influenced her music.

In 1971, Parton released her first gospel album titled "The Golden Streets of Glory," which featured songs including "Yes I See God," "I Believe" and "Lord Hold My Hand."

During a 2018 interview with Closer Weekly, Parton shared how her faith enabled her to persevere during difficult times.

In the early 1980s, Parton had gynecological problems that had plagued her for about three years. By 1984, she underwent a partial hysterectomy and was told she’d never be able to have children with Dean.

"It was a really bad time," Parton told the outlet. "Sometimes God just has to smack you down. He was almost saying, ‘Sit your pretty little a-- down because we have to deal with some stuff.’"

Parton admitted she sank into a two-year depression and was forced to scale back her professional commitments to heal. Also around that same time, Parton struggled with feelings of guilt over an attraction she had to another man.

DOLLY PARTON REVEALS SECRET TO 56-YEAR MARRIAGE WITH HUSBAND CARL THOMAS DEAN: 'IT WAS MEANT TO BE'

The singer was so shaken by those feelings that she began contemplating suicide.

"I looked at it a long time," said Parton about eyeing her gun at the time. "Then, just as I picked it up, just to hold it and look at it for a moment, our little dog, Popeye, came running up the stairs. The tap-tap of his paws jolted me back to reality. I suddenly froze and I put the gun down."

Parton said it was then that she started to pray, begging for God’s help.

"I kind of believe Popeye was a spiritual messenger from God," she said. "I don’t think I’d have done it, killed myself, but I can’t say for sure. Now that I’ve gone through that terrible moment, I can certainly understand the possibilities, even for someone solid like me, if the pain gets bad enough."

Parton insisted that it was her faith in God that truly saved her marriage.

"A belief in God is essential," she said, adding she never lets a day pass by without her daily prayers.

Parton and Dean even built their own small chapel on the grounds of their farm in Tennessee.

"She spends time there the most every day she’s home," a friend told Closer Weekly. "She not only prays there, but she often goes there to write spiritual songs. Carl goes as well, and it’s their quiet place to reflect, pray and give thanks."

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Parton’s friend noted at the time that the two's love for each other had only grown stronger over the years.

"There’s still a lot of passion between them," claimed the insider. "Dolly still enjoys cooking for Carl, and he still writes her love poems. Despite all of their ups and downs, they both consider their relationship a match made in heaven."

"She always lets God’s hand guide her through life," another friend added. "And she’s always come to the realization that God believes her place is with Carl."

"We know each other so well," Parton told the outlet. "I know every line in Carl’s face, and he knows every hair in my wig!"

Parton first met Dean at a laundromat in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1964 when she was 18 and he was 21. The couple tied the knot two years later.

Despite being married to the internationally famous singer-songwriter for almost six decades, Dean was a very private man who steered clear of the spotlight, though he played a strong supporting role in Parton's life.

During his lifetime, Dean rarely gave interviews. However, in 2016, he spoke lovingly of Parton while the couple were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.

"My first thought was, 'I'm going to marry that girl,'" Dean told Entertainment Tonight about meeting Parton for the first time. "My second thought was, 'Lord, she’s good-looking.' And that was the day my life began. I wouldn't trade the last 50 years for nothing on this Earth."

Parton announced Dean's death in a heartfelt statement that she shared on Instagram on March 3.

"Carl and I spent many wonderful years together," the "9 to 5" singer wrote. "Words can't do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy."

"This is a love note to family, friends, and fans," Parton shared. "Thank you for all the messages, cards, and flowers that you've sent to pay your respects for the loss of my beloved husband Carl."

"I can't reach out personally to each of you but just know it has meant the world to me. He is in God's arms now and I am okay with that. I will always love you."

On March 7, Parton revealed a new song that she wrote for Dean titled "If You Hadn't Been There."

"I fell in love with Carl Dean when I was 18 years old," she wrote along with a throwback photo of herself with her spouse. "We have spent 60 precious and meaningful years together. Like all great love stories, they never end. They live on in memory and song. He will always be the star of my life story, and I dedicate this song to him."

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Two weeks after Dean's death, Parton opened up about how she was carrying on.

"I'm doing better than I thought I would," Parton told Knox News. "I've been with him 60 years. So I'm going to have to relearn some of the things that we've done. But I'll keep him always close."

"I'm at peace that he's at peace, but that don't keep me from missing him and loving him," the entertainer said, adding that her husband had "suffered a great deal."

"It's a hole in my heart, you know, but we'll fill that up with good stuff, and he'll still always be with me," she said.

While speaking with The Associated Press, Parton shared details about her upcoming projects.

"I have a new book coming out ... this one is called ‘Star of the Show,’ which is actually a song I wrote years ago," she said. "But it’s about my life on the road and my life on stage – all the behind the scenes and all the people that I’ve met and all of the things that happen when you’re traveling like that as I have for all of these years."

"So, that, and then I have my life story as a musical," Parton continued. "It’s called ‘Dolly: An Original Musical.’ And I’ve written a lot of original songs for it. Of course, it’ll have the big hits that are woven into the story. And it’s just about my life from the time I was little until up through now."

"It’s going to be at the Fisher Center of Performing Arts at Belmont University [in Nashville]. Then, once that has its run through the end of August, then we take it to New York to open on Broadway next year."

Parton also reflected on being known as a "global superstar."

"I always say, and it’s the truth, that I am a workhorse that looks like a show horse. But I got to keep it all up, and I enjoy all of it," she explained.

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"My husband always said, ‘If anybody was ever born to be a star, it’s you,'" Parton recalled, "because he sees me loving to do all the things and playing and stuff; it’s play time for me, but I take it very serious."

Fox News Digital's Stephanie Nolasco contributed to this report.

Dolly Parton refuses to judge 'American Idol' or 'The Voice' for this reason

Fri, 09 May 2025 11:31:40 -0400

While many celebrities may jump at the chance to sit in a "The Voice" spinning chair or hand out an "American Idol" golden ticket, fans will not find country music legend Dolly Parton doing either.

The "9 to 5" crooner revealed why she has turned down offers to sit on the judging panel for the popular singing competition shows.

"I've been asked to do that a lot of times," Parton told E! News. "It's too hard for me. That's why I don't accept it, because I know how sincere everybody is. Even if they're not that good, they believe they are. And I just can't hurt people."

DOLLY PARTON DOESN’T KNOW IF SHE’S ‘STILL CONSIDERED A COUNTRY ARTIST'

While Parton, 79, has no interest in criticizing aspiring artists, she joined "American Idol" season 7 as a guest mentor in 2008. During this season, several top contestants chose to perform her songs, including winner David Cook.

Parton was additionally tapped in as a guest mentor on "The Voice" twice – in 2015 for season 9 and in 2016 for season 11.

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Although being a music judge is not in the cards for Parton, the country star is gearing up to debut her autobiographical musical, "Dolly: An Original Musical," on Broadway in 2026. She has also recently celebrated the 40th anniversary of her theme park, Dollywood.

"I'm just very proud of all of it, because I've seen it grow. It's like having a house full of kids. Every time something new goes in, it's like, 'Oh, we got a new baby, we got a new kid in the family,’" she told E! News.

DOLLY PARTON'S 'TO HELL WITH YOU' APPROACH FUELED DECADES OF SUCCESS

"But it's an amazing park and it's catered to families… we're proud of that. I think I'm as proud of that as anything, that people want to come back."

The "Jolene" singer’s comments come after the recent death of her longtime husband, Carl Dean.

Parton announced Dean's death in a heartfelt statement that she shared on Instagram on March 3.

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"Carl and I spent many wonderful years together," Parton wrote. Words can't do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy."

On March 7, Parton took to Instagram to reveal a new song that she had dedicated to Dean, titled "If You Hadn't Been There."

"I fell in love with Carl Dean when I was 18 years old," she wrote along with a throwback photo of herself with her spouse.

"We have spent 60 precious and meaningful years together," Parton continued in her caption. Like all great love stories, they never end. They live on in memory and song. He will always be the star of my life story, and I dedicate this song to him."

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Dolly Parton admits husband Carl Dean's death has been 'big adjustment' after 60-year romance

Fri, 02 May 2025 18:40:22 -0400

Dolly Parton reflected on life without her late husband Carl Dean after their 60-year romance.

During a Friday appearance on "Today," the 79-year-old country music icon opened up about how she is coping with the loss of Dean, who died in March at the age of 82.

"Oh, you know what, I get very emotional when people bring it up," Parton shared as she teared up. "But we were together 60 years. I’ve loved him since I was 18 years old."

"It’s a big adjustment just trying to change patterns and habits," she continued. "I’ll do fine, and I’m very involved in my work and that’s been the best thing that could happen to me."

DOLLY PARTON'S HUSBAND, CARL DEAN, DEAD AT 82

"But I’ll always miss him, of course, and always love him. He was a great partner to me," she added.

The 10-time Grammy winner went on to express her gratitude for the love and support that she had received in the wake of Dean's death.

"I’m so thankful. I’ve gotten so many cards, letters, flowers, from all over the world," Parton said.

"I had no idea Carl Dean was so famous," she joked of her spouse.

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In a 1977 interview with Country Music magazine, Parton explained that it was "good" that Dean was a "mystery person to the public."

"My career being separate from my marriage is perfectly natural for us," she said. "We like it that way. It’s too right and too natural and too comfortable and too secure for it to ever be anything else."

Parton first met Dean at a laundromat in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1964 when she was 18 and he was 21, and the couple tied the knot two years later.

During his lifetime, Dean rarely gave interviews. However, in 2016, he spoke lovingly of Parton while the couple were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.

While appearing on "Today," Parton recalled an interaction between herself and a young fan during this year's opening-day parade at her Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, on March 14.

In a viral clip, a little boy was seen appearing shocked and overjoyed when he spotted Parton, who smiled and pointed at him as she rode by in a carriage.

"I remember him in the parade. I was thinking, ‘Honey, are you gonna have a heart attack right here in front of everybody?’" Parton said. "It was the sweetest thing. I just wanted to get off of that cart and run down and just squeeze him. It was just great."

The moment took place while Parton was making her first public appearance following Dean's death. The "Jolene" singer surprised fans when she attended the opening-day celebrations in honor of Dollywood's 40th anniversary.

During her appearance on the show, Parton admitted that taking part in the parade amid her grief over Dean's death had been challenging.

"I got very emotional that day after the parade because there was just so much love like that," she said. "Right after I had lost Carl and I was just so bottled up with emotion, and I got in the van and just boo-hooed for the longest time, just feeling all that love and emotion."

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Parton announced Dean's death in a heartfelt statement that she shared on Instagram on March 3.

"Carl and I spent many wonderful years together," the "9 to 5" singer wrote. "Words can't do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy."

On March 7, Parton took to Instagram to reveal a new song that she had dedicated to Dean, titled "If You Hadn't Been There."

"I fell in love with Carl Dean when I was 18 years old," she wrote along with a throwback photo of herself with her spouse.

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"We have spent 60 precious and meaningful years together," Parton continued in her caption. "Like all great love stories, they never end. They live on in memory and song. He will always be the star of my life story, and I dedicate this song to him."

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Two weeks after Dean's death, Parton opened up about how she was carrying on after his passing.

"I'm doing better than I thought I would," Parton told Knox News. "I've been with him 60 years. So, I'm going to have to relearn some of the things that we've done. But I'll keep him always close."

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"I'm at peace that he's at peace, but that don't keep me from missing him and loving him," the entertainer said, adding that her husband had "suffered a great deal."

"It's a hole in my heart, you know, but we'll fill that up with good stuff and he'll still always be with me," she said.

SCOOP: Dolly Parton symphony concert heads to DC's Kennedy Center in event 'no one will want to miss'

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 08:50:11 -0400

FIRST ON FOX: The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., will host symphony concerts featuring the music and life of American icon Dolly Parton this summer, Fox News Digital has learned.

"The threads of my life are woven together through my songs. That’s why the project, Threads: My Songs In Symphony, is so special to me," Parton said in the Kennedy Center's announcement of the show, which was first exclusively shared with Fox Digital on Sunday. "It’s about sharing my music and my musical journey with audiences in a new way."

The concert, called "Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs in Symphony," made its premiere last year in Nashville and has since toured the nation from Pittsburgh to Portland, Oregon. The Kennedy Center will host the program on June 26 and 27, with the National Symphony Orchestra performing hits such as "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," and "I Will Always Love You."

Parton will not sing during the concerts, but the events will feature "a unique performance that honors her enduring spirit and unparalleled impact on American popular music culture." The National Symphony Orchestra will perform alongside guest vocalists and musicians to deliver a "fresh symphonic take on the timeless songs of Dolly Parton," according to the Kennedy Center.

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"Bringing Dolly Parton’s music to life through the power of a full symphony orchestra has long been a dream of mine," National Symphony Orchestra Principal Pops Conductor Steven Reineke said. "Dolly is one of the great storytellers of American music, and I am excited to bring her expansive catalog to the Kennedy Center. Through these unique symphonic charts, her music will be showcased like never before and will surely be an evening no one will want to miss!"

The concert is billed as "multimedia," and will include imagery of the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer on screen that will lead "audiences in a visual-musical journey of her songs, her life, and her stories," according to the Kennedy Center.

"Dolly Parton is an American icon whose music resonates with people from all walks of life and we are overjoyed to bring her symphony to the Kennedy Center!" Roma Daravi, vice president of public relations at The Kennedy Center, told Fox News Digital.

Tickets will become available to Kennedy Center members April 29 at 10 a.m., while the general public can begin purchasing tickets on May 1.

Kennedy Center President Richard Grenell told Fox News Digital back in February that he and his team will help usher in the "Golden Age of the Arts" with shows Americans actually want to see after years of the performing arts center running in the red.

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"This will be the Golden Age of the Arts," Grenell said. "The Kennedy Center has zero cash on hand and zero dollars in reserves - while taking tens of millions of dollars in public funds. We must have programs that sell tickets. We can’t afford to pay for content that doesn’t at least pay for itself right now. I wish we didn’t have to consider the costs of production, but we do."

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"The good news is that there are plenty of shows that are very popular, and therefore the ticket sales will pay for themselves," Grenell added.

Grenell added during remarks at CPAC that the Kennedy Center will now focus on performances "the public want to see," such as Christmas-focused productions in December. The Kennedy Center under the Biden administration had rolled out drag show performances, which drew the ire of President Donald Trump earlier this year.

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"We have to do the big productions that the masses and the public want to see, we want to have really good programming," Grenell said at CPAC. "So the first thing that we’re doing … you’ve got to be at the Kennedy Center in December, because we are doing a big, huge celebration of the birth of Christ at Christmas. How crazy is it to think that we’re going to celebrate Christ at Christmas with a big traditional production to celebrate what we are all celebrating in the world during Christmastime, which is the birth of Christ."