Tributes have poured in for country music icon Dolly Parton following her death at the age of 80.
Parton, one of pop culture's most universally beloved figures, leaves behind a remarkable career spanning music, film, business and philanthropy.
She became one of country music’s most celebrated artists with timeless songs including Jolene, I Will Always Love You and Islands in the Stream, while also earning recognition for her roles in films such as 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias.
Beyond entertainment, Parton was admired for her extensive charitable work, particularly her efforts to promote literacy and education through initiatives such as the Imagination Library.
Parton had cancelled a planned Las Vegas residency because of health concerns.
Her death was met with tributes from many of the people who worked with or admired her.
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Singer Dionne Warwick said she would miss Parton’s laughter, jokes and presence, adding that she hoped her friend would “rest well and in total peace".
Miley Cyrus, Parton's goddaughter, wrote that she could not believe “we just lost the purest soul,” while country music star Kacey Musgraves said: “The world feels a lot less sparkly all of a sudden.”
Actor and singer Kristin Chenoweth called Parton her “ultimate inspiration,” recalling how Parton had always made her feel like family and had agreed to sing on one of her records. “The world has lost one of the best,” Chenoweth wrote, adding that Parton was “impossible to forget.”
The country star cuts loose and enters new musical territory with a rock ’n’ roll album. (Source: Seven Sharp)
Actor Jamie Lee Curtis thanked Parton “for all of it,” while Julia Roberts, her Steel Magnolias co-star, described Parton as “a magical and joyous human” and said knowing her was “a treasure” in her life.
Paul McCartney paid tribute to Parton as a “magnificent star,” recalling first meeting her at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry before she launched her solo career. He remembered her as “bubbly and full of life” and praised her songwriting, singing, philanthropy and business acumen.
Country star Reba McEntire praised Parton’s music, love and generosity, describing her as someone with a “huge huge heart.” Keith Urban said he was “heartbroken” and had “no words” following her death.
Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger said she was a "wonderful songwriter and singer", adding she "brought so many people together, we will all miss her so much".
Barbra Streisand called her a force of nature, while Elton John described her "a giant of an artist — unique and irreplaceable, with the kindest heart".
US President Donald Trump ordered the lowering of American flags to half-mast in honour of Parton, calling her death a "true loss for millions of people".
"There has never been anyone like her, and never will," Trump posted on his Truth Social network.
- with AP
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