ITV News presenter Mary Nightingale was visibly emotional as she announced the death of US country music legend Dolly Parton during a live broadcast on Tuesday, August 25. Parton died at the age of 80.
Emotional announcement on air
During the live news programme, Nightingale delivered the news with a tearful voice: "Some very sad news, I'm afraid. The country music legend Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80." The announcement appeared to come as a shock to the presenter, who was visibly moved.
After returning from a commercial break, Nightingale choked back tears as she reflected on Parton's "remarkable and inspiring" life. A pre-recorded tribute video was then played, according to the Express.
Tribute to a legendary career
Arts Editor Nina Nannar paid tribute, saying: "You didn't have to be a fan of country music to adore Dolly Parton. The unique voice with its famous quiver, her larger than life look."
"The songs, performances, films, books, philanthropy, businesses; Dolly Parton did it all without losing her trademark good humour, self-deprecation and iconic status. Hers was a true rags to riches story. Born in a cabin in Tennessee, one of 12 children, Dolly Parton never forgot her impoverished roots," Nannar added.
Viewers react and family confirmation
Back in the studio, Nightingale took a moment to compose herself, saying: "And take a deep breath." She then continued with the rest of the day's headlines.
ITV viewers shared their support on social media. One X (formerly Twitter) user asked if Nightingale was alright, noting she "looked like she struggled to hold it together." Another wrote: "Mary Nightingale... the (UK) ITV newsreader was visibly/audibly shaken as she read it out; just before a commercial break." A third said: "Aw Mary Nightingale on @itvnews welling up as she broke the news just now. The world is a poorer place tonight," while another said they felt "emotional."
Parton's nephew, Bryan Seaver, confirmed the news of her death via social media. In an emotional video, Seaver said Parton had asked him to share the news several years ago. "Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl [Dean, her late husband], her parents, and countless others who have watched her and longed for her to meet them in the heavens," he shared. "She will always love you." ITV News streams for free on ITVX.
