Music icon Dolly Parton has reassured her global fanbase with a fresh-faced and healthy virtual appearance to accept an honorary Oscar, just days after cancelling her in-person attendance at the prestigious event due to health challenges.
An Emotional Virtual Acceptance
The 79-year-old singing sensation delivered a heartfelt speech via video link on Sunday evening at the Governors Awards, which were held at The Ray Dolby Ballroom in Hollywood, California. Parton was there to receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, an honorary Oscar from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Her decision to appear remotely had initially sparked concern among followers, but any worries were quickly allayed as she dazzled viewers, wearing a sparkly beige dress and her trademark big hair, looking, as many remarked, 'a million dollars'.
A Speech from the Heart
"From my heart to yours, I truly thank you," the singer began, after explaining the profound value she places on the humanitarian honour. She reflected on her humble beginnings, stating, "I grew up in a house with 12 kids. Now, that alone teaches you how important sharing is. Don't get me wrong, we didn't have that much to share. But my mom and daddy showed me by example that the more you give, the more blessings come your way."
The 'Jolene' hitmaker explained that she has tried her whole life to live by that example and has, in turn, "been blessed more than I ever dreamed possible." She described receiving the award as a "blessing of a lifetime" and something she does not take lightly.
Parton also shared that such honours inspire her to "dream up new ways to help lift people up", questioning, "and isn't that what we're supposed to be here for?" She gave a special shout-out to her '9 to 5' co-star Lily Tomlin, who introduced her from the venue.
Addressing Health Rumours Head-On
This public appearance follows a period where the star was forced to confront rumours about her wellbeing. Back in October, Parton clapped back at speculation that she was seriously ill, releasing a video to tell fans directly, "I'm not dying."
This came a day after her sister, Freida, had asked the public to pray for her, a post which Freida later apologised for, acknowledging it had scared fans. In her own video, Parton explained, "I know lately everybody thinks that I'm sicker than I am. Do I look sick to you? I'm working hard."
The music and business legend revealed that she "didn't take care of myself" following the death of her husband earlier this year. "So I let a lot of things go that I should have been taking care of," she said, adding that doctors subsequently advised her to address a few issues. While she clarified it was "nothing major", it did necessitate cancelling some appearances, including a Dollywood event, after she was diagnosed with a kidney stone.
She thanked fans for their prayers and concern, demonstrating her characteristic grace and connection with her audience. The star was not the only one honoured at the ceremony; Mission Impossible legend Tom Cruise also received an honorary Oscar, delivering a passionate speech about his love for cinema.
