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Country music legend Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, bringing an end to the extraordinary life and career of one of the most recognisable figures in music and entertainment. Her death was announced by her family on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
Parton’s death comes after months of health challenges. She had recently scaled back some of her public appearances and cancelled a previously postponed Las Vegas residency after experiencing health problems. She had also spoken publicly about dealing with health issues while still trying to keep up with her many projects.
Reports from TMZ said Parton was admitted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville while dealing with kidney and autoimmune issues. The exact cause of her death has not been disclosed.
The singer had also opened up about the difficult period following the death of her husband, Carl Dean, in March 2025. She acknowledged that she had neglected some of her own health while caring for him and had been trying to recover physically and emotionally.
For more than six decades, Parton built a career that went far beyond country music. She became a celebrated singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman and philanthropist, with timeless songs such as Jolene, 9 to 5 and I Will Always Love You among her most enduring works.
Her influence also stretched into business and philanthropy, most notably through Dollywood and her Imagination Library literacy programme. She sold more than 100 million records and earned 11 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Dolly Parton leaves behind a legacy that is difficult to measure. From humble beginnings in rural Tennessee to becoming a global superstar, she remained one of the rare entertainers whose music, personality and generosity touched generations. Her passing has already sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow entertainers around the world.
