Country music icon Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, her family has confirmed. The beloved singer's passing was announced in an emotional video tribute on Tuesday evening.
Family announces the passing
Representing the Parton and Owens family, Bryan Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, announced the death of his aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean via video message. In the tribute, he described the star as a beloved aunt, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Seaver revealed that Dolly had asked him to make the announcement years before her passing. He continued: "It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly. Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents, and countless others who have watched her and longed for her to meet them in the heavens."
Fans flood social media with tributes
Following the news, fans of the legendary singer have been quick to share tributes, flooding social media with comments. One fan said: "This world has lost a beautiful soul today, sleep sweet lovely lady," with a second adding: "You were a legend county singer RIP Dolly."
A further comment said: "Never be another like her," whilst another added: "So sad. Such a talent and kind person. RIP Dolly x." Other tributes included: "Loved her a legend lost but will leave a legacy," and "I'm gutted loved her music the kind person she was."
A career spanning six decades
The country legend, whose career spanned more than six decades, sold more than 100 million records worldwide and wrote over 3,000 songs. Her songs resonated with people of all ages across the world. One fan commented: "RIP beautiful voice and songs...another Angel."
Fans also noted her charitable efforts, with one adding: "Oh sad she was excellent songwriter and gave so many books to children via her charity." Established in 1995, Dolly Parton's Imagination Library now gifts millions of free books to children across the world.
Loss of her husband
Parton's death comes after the loss of her beloved husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Thomas Dean, in March 2025 following a long illness.
