Dolly Parton, the iconic singer-songwriter, actress, and humanitarian whose seven-decade career made her a defining figure in global music and culture, has died at the age of 80. Her family announced her passing on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.

Parton’s nephew, Bryan Seaver, shared the news on social media, writing: “I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now. It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness.”

In an official statement, her family reflected on her extraordinary impact: “A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family. Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience.”

A Mountain Legacy and Global Stardom

Born in the mountains of East Tennessee as one of 12 children, Parton rose from humble beginnings to become a titan of American music. Armed with a soaring, distinctive soprano and a razor-sharp wit, she carved out a path entirely her own in the traditionally male-dominated world of country music.

Over a career spanning more than 50 years, Parton amassed an astonishing catalog of hits, penning timeless classics such as “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “I Will Always Love You”—the latter of which became a monumental global phenomenon twice: first as her own country chart-topper and later as a historic pop ballad by Whitney Houston. Her songwriting output was legendary, estimated in the thousands, earning her inductions into the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Beyond her musical genius, Parton successfully crossed over into film and television, starring in beloved movies like 9 to 5 (1980) and Steel Magnolias (1989), while continuing to release acclaimed music well into her later years, including her 2023 rock album, Rockstar.

A Lasting Philanthropic Impact

Parton’s cultural footprint was matched only by her immense generosity. Through her Dollywood Foundation, she established the Imagination Library in 1995, a groundbreaking initiative that has gifted millions of free books to children worldwide from birth until school age. Her philanthropy extended to disaster relief, medical research, and educational support in her native Tennessee and beyond, cementing her reputation as a unifying, beloved figure.

Recently, Parton had faced health challenges that led her to postpone several scheduled appearances, prompting an outpouring of love and prayers from fans worldwide.

Parton is remembered not just for her towering artistic achievements and cultural ubiquity, but for her authenticity, humor, and deep compassion. She leaves behind a world forever touched by her grace and music.