Country music icon and humanitarian Dolly Parton has died at 80.
Glamtush reports that American country music icon Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80 after a brief battle with cancer.
Parton died on Tuesday, according to her management team, bringing to an end a six-decade career that made her one of the most influential figures in country music and popular culture.
The singer, songwriter, actress and philanthropist sold more than 100 million records worldwide and wrote more than 3,000 songs during her illustrious career.
Her death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from musicians, actors, political leaders and millions of fans across the world.
Swift, Beyoncé, McCartney lead tributes
Taylor Swift described Parton’s death as difficult to comprehend, saying a world without the country music legend did not feel “possible, real, or right.”
Swift praised Parton’s generosity, songwriting and the impact she had on generations of people, including through her support for children’s literacy.
Beyoncé described Parton as “the north star”, while former Beatles member Sir Paul McCartney said it was difficult to imagine a world without the legendary singer.
Oprah Winfrey also paid tribute, saying people were better because Parton had been in the world.
Other stars, including Celine Dion, Anne Hathaway, Jennifer Hudson, Shania Twain, Elton John, Eminem and Mötley Crüe, also honoured the late singer.
From poverty to global stardom
Parton was born into a large family and grew up in poverty on a farm in Tennessee. She eventually rose from humble beginnings to become one of the world’s most recognisable entertainers.
Her songwriting produced some of the most enduring songs in popular music, including “Jolene”, “Coat of Many Colors” and “I Will Always Love You”.
Beyond music, Parton achieved success as an actress, with her breakout film role coming in the 1980 comedy “9 to 5.”
She later became the owner of Dollywood, a major theme park in Tennessee that grew into a significant tourist attraction.
A legacy of philanthropy
Parton’s influence extended beyond entertainment, particularly through her charitable work and commitment to education and child literacy.
Her Imagination Library programme provided books to children, earning her widespread praise for using her wealth and influence to support young people.
Fans gathered at landmarks associated with the singer, including her statue in Sevierville, Tennessee, and her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where flowers, cards and candles were left in her memory.
Several American landmarks, including the Empire State Building in New York, the Willis Tower in Chicago and Pacific Park’s Ferris wheel in Santa Monica, were illuminated in pink to honour the country music icon.
A rare unifying figure
Tributes have highlighted Parton’s ability to appeal across generations, musical genres and political divides.
Music journalist and Nashville tour guide Bill DeMain described her as a “north star” and guiding light for musicians and artists in Tennessee, while fans recalled her warmth, generosity and connection with ordinary people.
Parton’s career spanned music, film, television, business and philanthropy, but her reputation for kindness and generosity became as important to her legacy as her artistic achievements.
Her death marks the end of an extraordinary era for country music and leaves behind a catalogue of songs and charitable works that continue to influence millions around the world.
Parton’s health concerns became public in September 2025 when she postponed her Las Vegas residency. In recent weeks, she had also withdrawn from public appearances amid ongoing health issues.
Parton’s death comes months after the death of her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025 at the age of 82.
The couple married in 1966.
