Country music legend Dolly Parton dies at 80

Dolly Parton, the iconic country music singer, songwriter, and actress, passed away at the age of 80 in Nashville on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. The announcement was made by her nephew via Instagram. Parton, whose career spanned nearly six decades, was one of the most successful artists in history, with sources providing varying estimates on her total record sales ranging from over 100 million to more than 160 million units worldwide.

Known for global hits such as "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," and "I Will Always Love You," Parton won 11 Grammy awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award. Before her death, she had publicly acknowledged health struggles, which had been exacerbated by the loss of her husband, Carl Dean, in March 2025. She noted in a recent interview that she had neglected her own well-being while caring for him.

Parton’s career began as a child with the song "Little Tiny Tasseltop" and evolved into a multi-faceted presence in television and music. Her influence extended beyond her commercial success, as she became a global cultural figure noted for her unique persona and business acumen. No further details regarding future public memorials or burial arrangements were disclosed in the initial reports.