Country music legend Dolly Parton died peacefully Tuesday in Nashville, Tennessee, at age 80, with her family declining to disclose an official cause of death.
Parton was hospitalized at Vanderbilt University Medical Center on Friday, August 21, just four days before her passing. TMZ reported, citing sources familiar with the situation, that she had been admitted while dealing with kidney and autoimmune issues, though neither condition has been officially confirmed as contributing to her death.
Recent Health Struggles
In a statement to PEOPLE, Parton acknowledged she had been managing health problems over the previous year. “As I’ve shared in video messages throughout the past year, I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn’t pay attention to when I was watching over Carl,” she said, referring to her late husband, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025 at age 82.
Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will. In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the… pic.twitter.com/WICghhk73d
— Commentary Donald J. Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) August 25, 2026
Parton’s medical challenges forced her to postpone scheduled appearances and cancel an event at Dollywood earlier this month. She told attendees through a prerecorded message that her doctor had advised against traveling while she recovered from dizziness and dehydration.
Public Appearance and Legacy
Despite her health setbacks, Parton remained optimistic in her final public statements. “Even though I’m still healin’, I’m still workin’!” she said days before her death, noting she had numerous projects she intended to complete.
President Trump on lowering the flags to honor Dolly Parton after her passing:
"She was unique. She was amazing. To lose her is like losing a member of a family." pic.twitter.com/GlSlbH4q6V
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) August 26, 2026
Born in Tennessee in 1946 as one of 12 children, Parton rose from poverty to become one of the most successful entertainers in history. Her catalog includes classics such as “Jolene,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You,” along with a career spanning music, film, business and philanthropy.
Her Imagination Library, founded in 1995, has distributed hundreds of millions of free books to children worldwide. President Trump released a statement following her death: “She was unique. She was amazing. To lose her is like losing a member of a family.”
What Comes Next
Parton’s family announced plans for a small private service for immediate relatives. Her representatives have not provided further details about her final days or medical circumstances.
This story has been updated. CNN’s reporting team contributed to this report.
