Dolly Parton, country music icon, dies aged 80

Country music legend Dolly Parton has passed away at the age of 80 in Nashville, Tennessee. She died on Tuesday, August 25, at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center after a brief illness, surrounded by family. Her nephew announced her death in a video statement, sharing that she had requested he deliver the news personally. Parton had previously discussed health challenges, including dizziness and dehydration, which led to the cancellation of a Las Vegas residency while she underwent treatment.

Born into a poor family in the Tennessee mountains, Parton was one of 12 children. She began performing in her grandfather's church and on local television by age 10. By 13, she appeared on the Grand Ole Opry, where Johnny Cash introduced her to the audience. Parton moved to Nashville in 1964 and quickly became a leading star, partnering with singer Porter Wagoner, which proved central to her success.

With Wagoner's help, she secured a deal with RCA Records and released her first number one solo single, "Joshua," in 1973. Hits like "Coat of Many Colors," "Jolene," and "I Will Always Love You" solidified her status as a country icon. Her 1987 collaboration with Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris, "Trio," was a massive seller. Parton's film work included roles in "9 to 5," "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas," and "Steel Magnolias," while her stage adaptation, "9 to 5: The Musical," debuted in 2009 and is set to reopen January 19, 2027.

She founded the Imagination Library, built Dollywood theme park, and received numerous awards, including a Grammy lifetime achievement award, induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. Flags at the White House were lowered to half-staff upon her passing.