BBC Breakfast has revisited one of Dolly Parton's final television interviews following the country singer's death at the age of 80. Her family confirmed the news on Tuesday, stating she died after a brief battle with cancer.
In the hours after her death, tributes poured in from fans and celebrities, including Taylor Swift and Sir Paul McCartney. The BBC Breakfast programme on Wednesday, August 24, hosted by Ben Thompson and Sally Nugent, honoured Dolly throughout the show.
Interview from 2023 Aired
During the programme, they aired an interview from 2023 between Dolly and Charlie Stayt. Also posted on social media, the caption read: “The wonderful Dolly Parton on #BBCBreakfast in 2023. After the sad death of the country music legend we look back at our last interview with her.”
In the interview, Dolly said: “I look like a woman, but I think like a man, only because I grew up in a house full of brothers. My dad, my uncles, love men, but I never feel out of place.
“Sometimes I’m the only woman in a whole boardroom of meetings, but I always just say, get past the boobs, get past everything else and listen to what I’ve got to say because I think I can make us all a bunch of money.
“My line is, I’m a very professional Dolly Parton, I don’t go into meetings trying to save the world, or thinking I know anything about things I don’t. At least I’m smart enough to know what I know and what I don’t know, but it’s what I know that I make my living from.”
Reflections on Feminism
When Charlie asked if she saw herself as a feminist, Dolly replied: “No, I’m feminine, I see myself as a female but I do agree that whether you’re a man or a woman, black, white, green, purple or alien grey, you should be allowed to be paid and treated with respect and what you’re capable of doing.
“I always like to be a good example, I don’t feel I have to march in the streets to say I’m a woman or I have this and that, but I’ve been writing those kinds of songs to uplift women ever since I’ve been in the career.
“My first number one song was called Just Because I’m A Woman, my mistakes are no worse than yours, just because I’m a woman. I just try to live it and be it.”
Fan Tributes and Family Statement
After the clip was re-shared by BBC Breakfast, fans paid tribute in the comments. One wrote: “An infectious personality and a legend of our time.” Another had said when it was originally posted: “She is wise and perfectly self-confident.” Someone else wrote: “Wonderful words from Dolly.”
Another said, “I love you, Dolly. You are a beautiful woman and a human being.” Someone else said: “A very smart Woman & amazing Singer. Love her to bits.”
The news of Dolly’s death was shared by her family and publicity team on Tuesday, in a statement that read: “Global icon and humanitarian, Dolly Parton, known to the world as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright, and author, died peacefully today in Nashville, Tennessee.
“She was 80 years old. Dolly is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, Carl Thomas Dean (1942 – 2025), her mother, Avie Lee Caroline Owens (1923 – 2003), and her father, Robert Lee Parton, Sr. (1921 – 2000).
“A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family. Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience.
“With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”
BBC Breakfast airs daily from 6am on BBC One and iPlayer.
