US court orders Dolly Parton’s nephew to stay away from estate staff and properties amid ‘escalating campaign of threats’

Nashville Chancery Court has issued a restraining order against Dolly Parton's nephew, Bryan Seaver, requiring him to maintain a safe distance from the estate's staff and properties, US media reported. Chancellor I’Ashea L. Myles issued the temporary restraining order on Wednesday following allegations by the artist's manager, Danny Nozell, of a "campaign of threats" aimed at extorting money from the extensive business empire.

Seaver, who had been providing security for Parton for years, was abruptly fired last week, and claims he was dismayed by the sudden and unexplained actions.

According to court papers, Seaver sent threats, including a text message warning he would become "the hand of retribution for my entire family." The restraining order directed Seaver to stay at least 1,000 feet from estate employees and business partners, remain off private estate-owned property, and refrain from disruptive or harassing conduct.

Seaver, who identified himself as a military contractor and international arms dealer, stated that he was conducting his own investigation into how his aunt's affairs were managed at the time of her death.

Parton, 80, passed away last month, prompting global mourning for the iconic singer, who rose from poverty to become a celebrated figure with hits like "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You." Her business empire, valued at hundreds of millions of dollars, encompasses her Dollywood theme park, cosmetics, pet apparel, baking mixes, and even a truck stop. The Dollywood theme park, located in Tennessee, draws approximately four million visitors annually and employs 4,000 people.