Dolly Parton, the legendary American country music singer, songwriter, actress and philanthropist, has died at the age of 80.
Her family announced her death on Tuesday through a video shared by her nephew, Brian Seaver. He described the moment as one filled with both great pride and deep sadness.
Parton was one of the biggest names in country music, with a career that lasted more than six decades. She was known for her powerful storytelling, memorable songs and distinctive voice.
Among her most famous songs are “Jolene”, “I Will Always Love You” and “9 to 5”.
“I Will Always Love You” became even more famous after Whitney Houston recorded it for the 1992 film The Bodyguard. Houston’s version became a worldwide hit.
Parton also enjoyed major success as an actress. She appeared in films including 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Rhinestone and Steel Magnolias.
She won 10 Grammy Awards and received numerous other honours during her long career.
Beyond entertainment, Parton was also known for her charitable work. Her Imagination Library programme has provided millions of books to children and promoted early childhood literacy.
Parton was born into a poor family in rural Tennessee and was one of 12 children. Her father worked as a farmer and construction worker, while her mother looked after the large family.
Her difficult childhood later influenced some of her music. Her song “Coat of Many Colours”, for example, was inspired by a coat her mother made for her from pieces of cloth.
Parton began performing at a young age. She sang in church, appeared on local television and made her first record at 13.
After completing high school in 1964, she moved to Nashville to pursue a career in music. She initially worked mainly as a songwriter before becoming a successful recording artist.
Her partnership with country singer Porter Wagoner helped launch her career, but she later established herself as a successful solo performer.
She recorded her first country No. 1 hit, “Joshua”, in 1971. “Jolene” followed in 1973, while “I Will Always Love You” became another major success.
In 1980, Parton starred in the film 9 to 5 and recorded its hit theme song. She was nominated for an Academy Award for the song.
She also recorded “Islands in the Stream” with Kenny Rogers in 1983, producing one of the most famous country-pop duets of the era.
Parton’s personal life also attracted attention. She married Carl Dean in 1966, and the couple remained together for almost 60 years. Dean died in March 2025 at the age of 82.
In her later years, Parton continued working in music, entertainment and philanthropy, although she cancelled some public appearances because of health problems.
Parton’s death marks the end of an extraordinary career that took her from poverty in rural Tennessee to international fame.
Her music, films and charitable work have left a lasting mark, while songs such as “Jolene”, “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You” are expected to continue being enjoyed by generations to come.
