Country music icon Dolly Parton has moved to reassure concerned fans worldwide after her sister's public prayer request sparked fears about her wellbeing. The 79-year-old superstar, who approaches her milestone 80th birthday in January, spoke candidly about facing health challenges while maintaining her characteristic optimism and determination.
Setting the Record Straight
In an exclusive cover story with People magazine, the Jolene hitmaker addressed recent health rumours head-on. "People say, 'Well, you're going to be 80 years old.' Well, so what? Look at all I've done in 80 years. I feel like I'm just getting started," Dolly declared, showcasing her trademark spirited attitude towards ageing.
The music legend revealed that her current health issues stem from kidney stones that developed two months ago, requiring medical attention and causing her to postpone several concerts. Despite these challenges, she insisted her health is now in good order and she plans to continue working at her characteristic pace.
Family Concerns and Public Reassurance
The health scare intensified last month when Dolly's sister, Freida Parton, made a public plea on Facebook, writing: "Last night, I was up all night praying for my sister, Dolly. Many of you know she hasn't been feeling her best lately. I truly believe in the power of prayer."
This heartfelt message from her younger sibling sent shockwaves through Dolly's global fanbase, prompting immediate concern. Days later, Dolly responded directly to her fans through an Instagram video filmed on set for a Grand Ole Opry advertisement.
In the now-viral clip, a impeccably dressed Dolly in a red fringed shirt and black slacks declared: "I ain't dead yet! Do I look sick to you? I wanted to put everybody's mind at ease. I appreciate your prayers, because I'm a person of faith, but I want you to know that I'm OK!"
Postponed Plans and Future Adventures
The health issues led to the postponement of Dolly's Las Vegas residency, originally scheduled for December 2024 at the Colosseum Theater at Caesars Palace, which has now been rescheduled for September 2026. In her announcement to fans, Dolly explained she needed to undergo "a few procedures" and described it as time for her "100,000-mile check-up."
She was quick to reassure fans that this doesn't signal retirement, stating: "Don't worry about me quittin' the business because God hasn't said anything about stopping yet. I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you."
Dolly's sister Stella Parton later came to Freida's defence on social media platform X, clarifying that kidney stones were indeed the health issue affecting the music icon. Stella explained that Freida's concern came from a place of sisterly love, writing: "My sister Freida is always concerned when one of her siblings isn't feeling well so she asked for prayers on Dolly's behalf."
Dolly's UK manager Olly Rowland confirmed the situation had been "blown out of proportion" and that the singer simply needed a procedure to resolve her kidney stones.
Despite the health setback, Dolly remains characteristically forward-looking. She released her latest book, Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones, and continues to reflect on her remarkable career while planning future projects. As she told People magazine: "I think there's a lot to be said about age. If you allow yourself to get old, you will. I say, 'I ain't got time to get old!'"
