DOLLY PARTON, COUNTRY MUSIC ICON, DIES AT 80

Dolly Parton, the legendary American country music singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman and philanthropist, has died at the age of 80.

The music icon died on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. Her death was announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, in a video posted on Parton’s official social media account. The announcement was also confirmed by her representatives and multiple international news outlets. Seaver, who served as Parton’s head of security for more than two decades, said announcing his aunt’s death was something she had asked him to do years ago. He described the moment as one filled with both “pride and great sadness.” A cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. Parton had faced health challenges in recent months, which led to the cancellation or postponement of several public appearances and performances. She had also recently spoken about her health and appeared virtually at the ACM Honors after being unable to attend in person. Born into poverty in Tennessee, Parton rose to become one of the most influential figures in country music. Her career spanned more than six decades and produced enduring hits including “Jolene,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You.” She wrote approximately 3,000 songs and sold more than 100 million records worldwide. Her partnership with country singer Porter Wagoner helped establish her career in the late 1960s and early 1970s before she went on to achieve enormous success as a solo performer. Parton also became a major Hollywood star, appearing in films including 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and Steel Magnolias. She earned 10 Grammy Awards and numerous other honours during her career. Beyond entertainment, Parton built a successful business empire and became widely respected for her philanthropy. Through the Dollywood Foundation and its Imagination Library, she helped promote childhood literacy by providing books to children in several countries. Known for her distinctive blonde hair, glamorous style, wit and warm personality, Parton became a beloved figure across generations and one of the few entertainers whose appeal crossed cultural and political divides. With her music, films, business ventures and charitable work, Dolly Parton leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond country music. She was survived by an extraordinary catalogue of songs and performances that have influenced generations of musicians and fans around the world.

Source: BBC