Country music legend, actress and philanthropist Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80 following a battle with cancer.
Parton passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Tennessee, surrounded by her loved ones. Her death was confirmed by her representatives and her nephew Bryan Seaver, who shared the news on her official social media accounts.
Born into poverty in a one-room cabin in Tennessee, Parton went on to become one of the most celebrated entertainers in the world. Her career spanned more than six decades, during which she wrote around 3,000 songs and released some of country music’s most iconic hits including “Jolene” ,”Coat of Many Colours” and “I Will Always Love You”.
Her incredible career earned her 11 Grammy Awards and a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame. She also made a name for herself in Hollywood, starring in beloved films such as 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias. She later became a successful businesswoman through her Dollywood theme park ventures.
Beyond her entertainment career, she was known for her generosity and commitment to helping others.
Through her Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, she helped provide hundreds of millions of books to children around the world, encouraging early childhood literacy.
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She also played a role in supporting COVID-19 research. In 2020, Dolly donated $1 million to Vanderbilt University, helping fund research that contributed to the development of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine.
Her death marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in music and entertainment. From her humble beginnings in Tennessee to becoming a global superstar, Dolly Parton built a legacy that extended far beyond her music.
She will be remembered for her songwriting, unmistakable voice, business success, philanthropy and ability to connect with generations of fans around the world. Dolly Parton leaves behind a legacy that is unlikely to ever be replicated.
