Country music icon and global superstar passes away after recent health struggles, leaving behind a legacy spanning music, film, business and philanthropy.
Music legend Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80 after a brief battle with cancer, according to reports from US media citing her representatives.
Parton’s death was announced by her family on Tuesday, marking the end of a remarkable career that transformed her from a poor child in Tennessee into one of America’s most celebrated entertainers.
Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, confirmed her death in a social media video, saying Parton had “lived in the light” and was now “in the arms of Jesus.”
Although her family initially did not disclose the cause of death, her representatives later said she had battled cancer briefly. People magazine also reported that the singer had been admitted to a cancer treatment facility on Friday.
Parton had previously acknowledged that she was dealing with health challenges. In May, she cancelled a series of Las Vegas concerts, saying she was undergoing treatment for an unspecified illness and was not yet ready to return to the stage.
The singer, songwriter, actress, philanthropist and businesswoman was best known for timeless country music hits including Jolene and Coat of Many Colours. She also built a successful business empire and became one of the most influential figures in American popular culture.
Parton moved to Nashville shortly after graduating from high school to pursue music. By 1967, at just 21, she had become a recognised figure in country music after joining Porter Wagoner’s syndicated television show, which introduced her to millions of Americans.
Her death comes a year after the passing of her husband, Carl Dean, with whom she had been married for nearly six decades.
US President Donald Trump ordered American flags to be flown at half-staff across the country for a week in honour of Parton, describing her death as a “true loss for millions of people.”
“There has never been anyone like her, and never will,” President Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
Parton leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond music, with decades of contributions to entertainment, philanthropy, business and American culture.