#SHOWBIZ: Restraining order issued against Dolly Parton's nephew over threats to estate staff

A temporary restraining order has been issued against Dolly Parton's nephew Bryan Seaver, preventing him from approaching employees and properties of the legend's estate, according to US media. This decision came after the estate's manager, Danny Nozell, alleged an escalating campaign of threats to extort money from the extensive business empire.

The restraining order was issued by Chancellor I Ashea L. Myles of Nashville Chancery Court on Wednesday, based on communications between Seaver and Nozell that included threats with demands for payment. Nozell requested the order on behalf of She's Alive, an organization managing Parton's business empire. The court ordered Seaver to maintain a distance of at least 1,000 feet from estate employees and properties, as well as refrain from any disruptive or harassing conduct.

Seaver's statements were deemed significant as they were made in conjunction with threats targeting specific individuals and business interests associated with Parton's professional property and estate, as per the ruling. Seaver, who served as Parton's security for years, was abruptly fired last week, leading to his criticism of Nozell.

Seaver had provided security for Parton for years but was dismissed last week, causing him to criticize Nozell with unexplained actions. The court has scheduled a hearing for October 7 to address the matter further. Seaver, who described himself as a military contractor and international arms dealer, claimed he was investigating how Parton's affairs were managed at the time of her death.

Dolly Parton passed away last month at the age of 80, leaving behind a business empire worth hundreds of millions of dollars and including her popular Dollywood theme park, cosmetics, pet apparel, baking mixes, and a truck stop.