‘A Diamond in a Rhinestone World’: Dolly Parton’s Life in Pictures

Dolly Parton, born in 1946 as the fourth of 12 children in a one-room cabin in Tennessee, has had a life filled with music and success. At a young age, she already had an affinity for music, playing instruments like the guitar, fiddle, and banjo by ear. Her career took off in the 1970s when she joined The Porter Wagoner Show, leading to numerous hits.

Parton's career milestones include recording her 20th LP, Heartbreaker, in July 1977, which would win her her first Grammy in 1979. She also appeared on Cher's variety show that same year, performing a rendition of "I Got You Babe."

In 1979, Parton starred in the film 9 to 5 alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, which became a massive commercial success. She then ventured into television with her own variety show, 'Dolly,' featuring celebrity guests and her signature humor and music. Parton's love for music and family continued to flourish, as she opened Dollywood, a theme park that honored her roots, in 1986. The park has since welcomed over 3 million visitors annually.

Throughout the years, Parton maintained strong friendships with fellow musicians, including Kenny Rogers and Sylvester Stallone, and mentored upcoming artists like Miley Cyrus. She graced major events, such as Glastonbury in 2014 and the halftime game between the Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys in 2023, where she performed hits like "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," and "9 to 5."