Country Music star Dolly Parton dies aged 80

Country Music star Dolly Parton has died aged 80 her family has announced on social media.

The news was announced on Instagram by her nephew and head of securit Bryan Seaver. 

View this post on Instagram

Her PR team also released the following statement:

"Global icon and humanitarian, Dolly Parton, known to the world as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright, and author died peacefully today in Nashville, Tennessee. She was 80 years old.

"Dolly is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years Carl Thomas Dean (1942 – 2025), her mother Avie Lee Caroline Owens (1923 – 2003), and father, Robert Lee Parton, Sr. (1921 – 2000).

"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. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.

"Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact."

Dolly is said to have written over 3000 songs. In recent years she was made a Kentucky Colonel, in recognition of her work in childrens literacy through her Imagination Library scheme - a book gifting program that made free books accsessible to children. 

She was due to perform a Las Vegas residency show in 2025, that had been postponed to September 2026 due to health concerns. Parton had previously dicussed a number of health issues saying that her immune and digestive systems had "gotten out of whack" and were bring treated. 

A small, private service will be held for immediate family. 

She released 49 albums and won 11 Grammys.