Coronation Street viewers were moved to tears after a touching reference to Dolly Parton featured in the beloved soap.
It was confirmed this week that the singing icon Dolly had passed away at the age of 80. The Jolene hitmaker's representatives confirmed that she passed following a short battle with cancer.
In the wake of the heartbreaking news, tributes flooded in from the likes of Taylor Swift, Eminem, Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney. During Thursday's episode (August 26) of the ITV soap, Coronation Street fans spotted a heartfelt nod to Dolly that was entirely coincidental.
Coincidental tribute in the soap
Viewers will remember that Celeste Butterfield (Frances Barber) has just months to live and is currently organising her own Dolly Parton-themed funeral with the assistance of Todd Grimshaw (Gareth Pierce).
In the most recent episode, Todd met up with Celeste at the Roy's Rolls café. When Todd asked whether she was religious, Celeste quipped: "To the majesty herself, Dolly Parton."
Fan reactions on social media
Fans swiftly responded to the Dolly reference, with one person writing on a Coronation Street Facebook fan page: "I loved that Dolly got a mention." Another added: "I'd say a fitting tribute to the late great DP (albeit coincidental)."
Meanwhile on X, a third penned: "Wow! Corrie couldn't have known when they wrote these lines about Dolly Parton, just how well timed they would be." Another wrote: "Crazy timing for a Dolly Parton reference."
Sharing a similar sentiment, a fifth remarked: "Constant mentions of Dolly Parton with one of her fans organising their funeral. Timing feels a little strange now."
Death announced by nephew
The passing of Dolly, who was responsible for iconic songs including Jolene and I Will Always Love You, was announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver. In a pre-recorded video message arranged by the singer herself, Bryan honoured her wishes by breaking the heartbreaking news.
He said: "Dolly called me and said she wants to rest in a beautiful bed of plush cotton, because after a life wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserves to be comfortable and have some rest."
Dolly's representatives confirmed that, at her behest, "a small, private service will be held for immediate family" and that supporters could contribute donations to her philanthropic Imagination Library in her honour.
Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
