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26 August 2026

Stars pay tribute to Dolly Parton after her death at 80

The world mourns the loss of Dolly Parton, celebrating her extraordinary life and impact on music and beyond.

Stars pay tribute to Dolly Parton after her death at 80

The music world and beyond are in mourning following the passing of the incomparable Dolly Parton at the age of 80. The news of her death, announced on Tuesday, August 25 sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, prompting an outpouring of tributes from celebrities and fans alike.

Parton’s nephew, Bryan Seaver shared a heartfelt message on her Instagram profile, revealing her final wishes. He stated that she wanted to “rest in a beautiful bed of plush cotton because after a life wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserves to be comfortable and have some rest.” His emotional post highlighted the profound impact Parton had on countless lives, noting that she was “an extended part of your family whether you liked it or not.”

Celebrities reflect on Dolly Parton’s enduring legacy

The loss of Dolly Parton has left a void in the hearts of her colleagues and admirers. Many have taken to social media to share their memories and express their gratitude for the icon’s contributions to music and culture.

Billy Ray Cyrus shares a personal anecdote

Billy Ray Cyrus father of Miley Cyrus shared a touching tribute to Parton, who passed away on his birthday. He reminisced about growing up with her music and a memorable encounter in the 1990s. “In 1992, I’ll never forget walking into her dressing room to apologize for all the tabloid stories which claimed I was having an affair with her. In true Dolly fashion, she just looked at me, winked and said, ‘Honey, this trash sells records!’”

Beyoncé hails Dolly as a guiding light

Beyoncé known as Cowboy Carter paid a profound tribute to Parton, referring to her as the “North Star.” She wrote, “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.” Beyoncé also expressed her honor in working with Parton and treasured that experience forever.

Taylor Swift’s heartfelt message

Taylor Swift described Parton as “the gift that kept on giving.” She praised the icon for encouraging individuality and providing gentle, honest, and often hilarious lessons about the world. Swift concluded her message with, “Dolly, I’ll think of you each step of the way.”

Sabrina Carpenter’s friendship with Dolly

Sabrina Carpenter who collaborated with Parton on a remix of “Please Please Please,” shared a lengthy statement about their friendship. She recalled their laughter and conversations, cherishing Parton’s wisdom and playful outlook on life.

Musicians and actors join in honoring Dolly Parton

The tributes continued to pour in from various artists and public figures, each sharing their unique connection to Parton’s life and work.

Oprah’s tribute to Dolly’s light

Oprah Winfrey expressed the sentiment shared by many, stating, “No one like her. She brought the light, and we are all better because she was here.”

Kelly Clarkson’s warm reminiscences

Kelly Clarkson noted that Parton had a way of making everyone feel special and seen. She wrote, “Dolly Parton had a way of making everyone feel special, and seen, and welcomed, and as if you were old friends.”

Kacey Musgraves’ sparkly world

Kacey Musgraves shared a simple yet poignant sentiment, writing, “The world feels a lot less sparkly all of a sudden.”

Khloé Kardashian’s admiration

Khloé Kardashian a lifelong fan of Parton, wrote, “Some people are so extraordinary, their existence feels almost impossible. Dolly was one of those people.”

Reba McEntire’s tribute to her buddy

Reba McEntire shared a heartfelt message, stating, “There will never ever be another you,” referring to Parton as her “buddy.”

Jane Fonda’s reassurance to LGBTQ+ fans

Jane Fonda Parton’s co-star in “9 to 5,” reassured LGBTQ+ fans that Parton was always in their corner. She encouraged fans to celebrate Parton’s spirit and watch the final episode of “Grace and Frankie,” where Parton appears as an angel.

The Muppets’ gratitude

The beloved characters from The Muppets shared a heartfelt message, stating, “She filled the world with light and we are so grateful for every second we got to spend with her onstage and off.”

Eminem’s appreciation

Eminem shared a letter Parton had written him, expressing his gratitude for her kind words and the impact she had on him, even though they never met.

Pedro Pascal’s tribute

Pedro Pascal wrote, “One of one 💔. We must make more,” highlighting Parton’s uniqueness and the need to honor her legacy.

Kristin Chenoweth’s inspiration

Kristin Chenoweth claimed Parton was her “ultimate inspiration,” adding that the world has lost one of the best but will never forget her.

Jamie Lee Curtis’ reflection

Jamie Lee Curtis shared, “They say don’t meet your heroes. They were wrong about her,” emphasizing Parton’s authenticity and the joy she brought to others.

Sally Field’s tribute

Sally Field Parton’s co-star in “Steel Magnolias,” shared, “If there are truly angels on earth, then we have just lost one.”

Maggie Rogers’ admiration

Maggie Rogers described Parton as “one of the greatest songwriters of all time, beautiful, radiant butterfly human.”

Blake Shelton’s tribute

Blake Shelton wrote, “She was the EXACT person that you think she is,” highlighting Parton’s authenticity and the joy she brought to those around her.

Carly Pearce’s heartfelt message

Carly Pearce shared a lengthy caption in honor of Parton’s life, emphasizing her kindness, humor, and uniqueness.

Keith Urban’s tribute

Keith Urban shared a simple Instagram Story, writing, “Honestly.…I have no words right now.”

Keke Palmer’s devastation

Keke Palmer wrote, “I’m devastated. Truly,” expressing her deep sorrow over Parton’s passing.

Donald Trump’s tribute

Donald Trump wrote, “This is a true loss for millions of people,” and announced that he would be lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one-week period in her honor.

Andy Cohen’s tribute

Andy Cohen wrote, “We were all so lucky to live in her midst and get to experience her music, kindness, and joy.”

Jeremy Scott’s tribute

Jeremy Scott shared a simple social post including photos of him and Parton, highlighting their connection.

Rosie O’Donnell’s tribute

Rosie O’Donnell wrote, “This earth angel has gone back to heaven where she came from,” expressing her heartbreak over Parton’s passing.

Dionne Warwick’s tribute

Dionne Warwick shared, “I will certainly miss her laughter, jokes, and her being. Rest well and in total peace my friend.”

Paris Hilton’s tribute

Paris Hilton wrote, “She was a true icon and such an inspiration to me,” sharing a photo with Parton.

Bill Clinton’s tribute

Bill Clinton described Parton as “one of a kind—a great songwriter and performer who told the stories of everyday Americans with honesty, humility, and heart.”

Author

Jordan Wells

Jordan Wells covers Pride, policy and the cultural arc with equal seriousness. Reports on legislation, films, and the writers reshaping queer narrative today.