Country music legend Dolly Parton dies aged 80

Country music icon Dolly Parton has passed away at the age of 80, her family confirmed. Her nephew Bryan Seaver announced the news in a video message honoring her legacy, without specifying the cause of death. Parton had recently canceled a Las Vegas residency in May due to health issues that left her feeling unwell. Throughout her seven-decade career, she became a household name, releasing hit songs like "I Will Always Love You," "9 to 5," and "Jolene."

Her music, along with her vibrant personality and glamorous appearance, helped introduce country music to global audiences. Dolly's rhinestone life symbolized inspiration not only through her timeless music and songwriting but also her wit, warmth, and kindness, making her feel like family to many. A statement from her X account praised her legacy of love, compassion, and resilience.

Born into a "dirt-poor" family, Parton often stood as a symbol of working-class Americans, consistently supporting causes she believed in. President Donald Trump ordered US flags to be flown at half-mast nationwide in her honor, calling her "one of a kind, and there will never be another like her." In 2020, Parton donated $1 million to vaccine research at Vanderbilt University and conducted literacy programs for young children across various countries, providing scholarships to high school students in Tennessee.