CNN has apologised to Dolly Parton's family after mistakenly using a photograph of a Las Vegas impersonator while reporting on the country music legend's death.
Parton died on Tuesday aged 80 following what her representatives described as a 'brief battle with cancer,' prompting tributes from around the world.
During Tuesday evening's edition of Laura Coates Live, the network displayed a photo of professional Dolly impersonator Kelly Vohnn instead of the Jolene singer.
Network admits error
CNN has acknowledged the mistake and issued an apology to the late musician's loved ones.
'We regret the error and apologize to the Parton family,' a spokesperson told Entertainment Weekly.
Vohnn has stressed that she had nothing to do with the error and has never attempted to convince people she is the real Parton.
Impersonator responds
'I'm relieved that CNN has reached out to Dolly's family and apologized for their mishap,' she told the publication. 'We all loved Dolly dearly and wouldn't want these mistakes to continue moving forward.'
The Las Vegas performer also posted a video to Instagram after discovering her photograph was being used in coverage of Parton's death.
'I am a Dolly Parton impersonator. The last few days have been devastating to myself and to millions of people around the world,' she began.
Not the first mix-up
Vohnn said it had been brought to her attention that news outlets were once again using her likeness while identifying her as Parton, insisting she had never given anyone permission to do so.
'I would never fool people that way. I am an impersonator. People know that they're buying tickets to an impersonator. And I would never say that I'm Dolly Parton,' she explained.
She claimed the same photograph was previously used in a story about Parton cancelling a second run of Las Vegas residency dates in May.
Vohnn stressed that while she doesn't own the photographs in question, she had never authorised anyone to use them while claiming they showed Parton.
'I would never disrespect Dolly, her family, or her loved ones this way. So please know that I am in no way a part of this,' she added.
Legacy and tribute
Vohnn has worked professionally as a Parton tribute act, recreating the star's blonde hair and glamorous style.
Following Parton's death, she said she hopes to continue celebrating the musician and intends to act as an 'ambassador' for her legacy, including the kindness and charitable work that became a significant part of the star's life.
She had previously posted an emotional tribute after learning of Parton's death, telling followers: 'We just lost an extraordinary human being. One of the most extraordinary human beings of my lifetime. It's a sad day.'
Parton's death at 80 brought an end to one of the most extraordinary careers in entertainment, spanning more than six decades. After growing up in poverty in rural Tennessee, she became a country music superstar with hits including Jolene, I Will Always Love You and 9 to 5, while also establishing herself as an actress, businesswoman and philanthropist.
