RIP | Music icon Dolly Parton dies aged 80
· The South African
Country music legend Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, her family confirmed on Tuesday, bringing an end to a career that spanned almost six decades.
Parton, whose unmistakable voice and songwriting produced global classics including “Jolene”, “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You”, became one of the most influential figures in popular music.
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Her death was confirmed by her family in a statement shared on social media.
The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Her passing comes after a period of health difficulties and the death of her husband of nearly six decades, Carl Dean, in March 2025.
A message from the family of Dolly Parton. pic.twitter.com/9DNRgRx0uH
— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) August 25, 2026
A career that changed country music
Born in Tennessee on 19 January 1946, Dolly Parton grew up in a large family and rose from humble beginnings to become one of the world’s most recognisable entertainers.
She moved to Nashville after finishing high school and released her debut album, Hello, I’m Dolly, in 1967.
Her breakthrough as a solo artist came with “Joshua”, which became her first US country No 1 in 1971.
What followed was an extraordinary run of hits, including “Jolene”, “Coat of Many Colors”, “Here You Come Again”, “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You”.
Parton’s songs were recorded by countless other artists, with Whitney Houston’s version of “I Will Always Love You” becoming one of the most successful recordings in music history.
Parton sold more than 100 million records worldwide and collected numerous honours during her career, including Grammy Awards and inductions into the Country Music Hall of Fame and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
From music to Hollywood
Parton’s talents extended well beyond country music.
She became a successful actress, starring in films including 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias, while also developing a substantial business empire.
In 1986, she helped establish Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, transforming the theme park into one of the region’s biggest attractions.
Her influence also extended to Broadway, television and theatre, with a musical based on her life among the projects she had been developing.
A legacy of giving
For many fans, Parton’s legacy extends beyond her music.
Through the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, she helped provide free books to children around the world, while her philanthropic work supported education, healthcare and communities in her home state.
She also donated $1 million towards Moderna’s Covid-19 vaccine research, a contribution that became widely known during the pandemic.
Just days before her death, Parton’s official website highlighted 82 new global sales certifications across 14 countries, including South Africa, showing that her music continued to reach new audiences more than half a century after her recording career began.
Health struggles before her death
Parton had been increasingly open about her health in recent months.
She cancelled appearances and previously postponed a Las Vegas residency because of health problems, while also speaking about the emotional and physical impact of caring for Carl Dean before his death.
In a recent interview, she said she had been dealing with health issues she had neglected while caring for her husband.
Despite those difficulties, she continued to discuss future creative projects and remained determined to work.
Now, after nearly 60 years at the centre of the entertainment industry, Dolly Parton’s remarkable journey has come to an end.
Her songs, films, businesses and philanthropy ensure that the woman who rose from rural Tennessee to become a global icon will remain part of popular culture for generations to come.