JUST IN: Country music icon Dolly Parton dies at 80

Country music legend Dolly Parton passed away at the age of 80, according to reports from The Independent, The Guardian, and Sky News. Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, announced the news on Instagram, expressing a mix of sadness and pride. Born in 1946 in Tennessee, Parton grew up in a poor family and began her music career at a young age.

She sold over 100 million records and received 11 Grammy Awards for songs like "Jolene", "9 to 5", and "I Will Always Love You". Parton was also an accomplished actress, appearing in films such as 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Steel Magnolias, and Joyful Noise. She founded the Dollywood Foundation's Imagination Library to promote literacy and supported various charitable causes.

Her health issues became known in September 2025, leading to her postponing a Las Vegas residency and withdrawing from public appearances. Parton's husband, Carl Dean, died in March 2025 at age 82.