American music has lost one of its most iconic figures. Dolly Parton, a singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist, passed away at the age of 80 after a career spanning more than six decades. She was famous for hits such as Jolene, 9 to 5, and I Will Always Love You, and millions of fans considered her one of the greatest legends in country music.
Dolly Parton died on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee. Her family announced the news, with her nephew Bryan Seaver appearing in a video posted on the singer's official Instagram account. According to the AP agency, her publicist said that she passed away peacefully. The official cause of death has not yet been released.
Parton was born on January 19, 1946, in Tennessee, as one of twelve children in a poor family. She rose from very humble beginnings to become one of the most famous American artists of all time. According to Reuters, her recordings have sold over 100 million copies worldwide.
She entered the history of popular music primarily as an exceptional songwriter. Among her most famous compositions are Coat of Many Colors, Jolene, and I Will Always Love You. The latter song was later transformed into one of the biggest hits of the 1990s by Whitney Houston.
Parton also achieved success as an actress. She had a notable role in the film 9 to 5 alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. In addition to music, she built the Dollywood amusement park in Tennessee and dedicated a significant amount of her time and money to charity.
One of her most well-known projects was Imagination Library, which provides children with free books and promotes literacy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she also donated one million dollars to research that contributed to the development of the Moderna vaccine.
Dolly Parton leaves behind not only dozens of world hits. Her legacy connects country music, film, business, and extensive philanthropy, and it goes far beyond the genre that made her a global star.
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