Dolly Parton Dies ‘following a brief battle with cancer’, Her Team Says
Country music legend Dolly Parton has passed away at the age of 80 following a ‘brief battle with cancer’, according to her publicist. The iconic singer-songwriter passed away on Tuesday, August 24, as confirmed by her family in a statement released by her nephew, Bryan Seaver.
Providing an update on Tuesday evening, her publicist Marcel Pariseau stated that she ‘departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones’.
In an emotional statement shared with PEOPLE, Dolly’s team celebrated her immense legacy, writing: “Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand.“Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact.
“After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones.”
While the specific type of cancer has not been publicly disclosed, Dolly had scaled back on public appearances in recent months due to ‘health challenges’. She had previously joked with her fans that her doctor had ‘clipped her wings’ to keep her rested.
Dolly’s passing was first announced late Tuesday via an Instagram video posted by her nephew Bryan Seaver, who also worked as her head of security. Seaver expressed that it was ‘an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness’ to share the news of her passing.
Seaver added: “But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly.“Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents and countless others who have watched her and longed to meet her in the heavens.”
Dolly’s beloved husband, Carl Dean, passed away last year.
The Legacy of the Queen of Country
Best known for her timeless global hits such as 9 To 5, I Will Always Love You, and Jolene, Dolly Parton was widely—and rightfully—revered as the Queen of Country.
Following the announcement of her passing, a wave of tributes poured in from across the entertainment world and beyond. Rapper Eminem shared a touching note he received from Dolly back in 2022, in which she expressed feeling an ‘unexplained connection’ to him.
Global Tributes to an Icon
Global superstar Beyoncé paid tribute to the ‘brilliant’ singer, sharing: “Dolly, you were the barometer. The north star. Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious. You taught so many lessons on how to be uniquely oneself. I am grateful for your art, your heart, your generosity, your humour, your entrepreneurship.“I’m honoured that I had the privilege to work with you. I will treasure that forever. Thank you for your profound impact on the world. You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art. You are truly one of one. Rest peacefully.”
Additionally, US President Donald Trump announced that American flags would fly at half-mast to honor the country music legend. In a statement posted on Truth Social, he wrote: “Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away,” before adding: “This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will.“In her honour, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.”
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