Dolly Parton has been forced to cancel her upcoming Las Vegas residency entirely due to ill health, sharing both good and bad news with fans. The 80-year-old country music legend, known for hits like Jolene, 9 to 5, and I Will Always Love You, initially postponed the residency to September 2026 but has now pulled the plug completely.
Health Update and Optimism
Taking to social media on Monday, Parton explained that she has "good news and a little bad news" regarding her health. She stated: "I am responding well to meds and treatments and I am improving every day." However, she noted that it will take time before she is ready to perform on stage due to side effects from medications. "Some of the meds and treatments make me a little bit swim-headed as my grandma used to say, and of course I can't be dizzy carrying around banjos and guitars and such on five-inch heels."
In her characteristic humorous style, Parton compared herself to an old-fashioned car needing restoration: "When they lifted the hood on this antique, they realised that I need to rebuild my engine, my transmission is slipping and my mufflers need busting. Spark plugs need to be changed because you know as well as I know that I can't lose my spark!" She added that she has had issues with kidney stones, her immune system, and digestive system, but is working on strengthening them.
Gratitude for Fan Support
Parton also thanked fans for their support following the death of her husband Carl, who passed away just over a year ago after nearly six decades of marriage. "You've been so great about that, and after going through a year of firsts - the holidays, and our wedding anniversary and the day of his death, that was hard for me but I will always love him and I'll always miss him."
She acknowledged the love and prayers from fans, saying, "From the bottom of my heart, I thank you, you have been a big part of my healing." Parton also reminded fans that while plastic surgeons can make one look good on the outside, internal health is serious business. She assured everyone that her doctors say everything is treatable and she is doing well.
Continuing Work on Other Projects
Despite the cancellation, Parton remains active, working on videos, recordings, and her Dollywood theme park. She is also focused on opening her hotel and museum and working on a Broadway musical set to debut this year. She encouraged fans to visit Las Vegas anyway and hoped to see them in New York for her show.
Parton signed off with her signature optimism, quoting her famous song: "I Will Always Love You."
