Dolly Parton's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame has been vandalised just days after the country legend's death, leaving fans shocked and heartbroken.
The star, which was already in the process of being restored, has been marred with numerous scratches. Ana Martinez, a representative for the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, revealed on Tuesday that a fan had reported the damage.
Repairs underway
Martinez further stated that the landmark was already scheduled for repair to mend cracks in it, with crews clearing away flowers laid in tribute to begin the work, according to the Daily Mail. She clarified that the refurbishment is currently being carried out by the Hollywood Historic Trust, who are responsible for maintaining and repairing the Walk of Fame stars, and will be finished for fans by Friday.
Videos circulating online show workers repairing the star after the country icon's name was allegedly scratched off.
Fans react
Fans expressed their heartbreak over the vandalism on social media, with one posting: "This hurts my heart so much." Another commented: "Further proof no matter who you are or what you do - someone will hate you."
Parton was honoured with a star on the infamous walk more than four decades ago in 1984, and in the days since her death, it has served as a landmark for fans to pay their respects.
Legacy and tributes
The superstar passed away last week, with news emerging that she had been privately battling cancer, although the specific type has not been disclosed. Since her passing, personalities from around the globe, including fellow legendary musicians, have offered their tributes to Dolly.
Her death was confirmed by her nephew Brian Seaver who shared a video on Instagram. He conveyed her desire "to rest in a beautiful bed of plush cotton because after a life of wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserves to be comfortable and have some rest."
Following her passing, floral tributes have been placed at numerous spots along Hollywood Boulevard, including Dolly's Nashville residence, and her theme park, Dollywood.
In the wake of her death, Hollywood Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez shared on Instagram, "Today, we will place flowers on the Walk of Fame star of our beloved Dolly Parton with profound sadness and gratitude." The post continued, "Dolly was a once-in-a-lifetime talent whose music, films, generosity, and unmistakable spirit touched millions around the world. Her loss is immeasurable-not only to her family, friends, and fans, but to the entire world."
The Hollywood Walk of Fame will forever shine a little brighter because Dolly Parton walked among us.
