Following the news of Dolly Parton's passing on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, fans can revisit her appearances on the Disney Channel series 'Hannah Montana,' now available for streaming on Disney+.

Parton, who died at age 80, played Aunt Dolly, the beloved aunt of Miley Stewart/Hannah Montana, portrayed by her real-life goddaughter Miley Cyrus. Parton's legacy extends beyond her music and acting, encompassing her philanthropic work. Her connection with Cyrus was a significant part of her later public life, with Cyrus crediting Parton's advice for the eventual realization of a 'Hannah Montana' 20th Anniversary Special.

Cyrus shared in an interview with Variety that Parton's advice – to promote something before it exists so that no one can say no – was a guiding principle. This strategy was instrumental in getting the anniversary special greenlit. The special, which began streaming on Disney+ on March 24, featured Cyrus reading a fax from Parton sent in 2021. In the message, Parton expressed pride in Cyrus and called her sensational her performance as the star of 'Hannah Montana.'

Parton took to Instagram Stories in March to commemorate the anniversary special, writing, "Reminiscing on my time as Aunt Dolly. When Hannah Montana came on the air and [Miley Cyrus], my little goddaughter, was the star of it, I was so proud of her. I thought she was sensational."

'Hannah Montana' Episodes Featuring Aunt Dolly

Fans can stream three specific episodes of 'Hannah Montana' on Disney+ that feature Parton:

  • Season 1, Episode 16: “Good Golly, Miss Dolly” This episode marks Aunt Dolly's introduction. Miley Stewart develops a crush on her classmate Jake Ryan. When a tape revealing Miley's feelings is accidentally swapped with another video, Dolly teams up with Miley's friends Lily and Oliver to retrieve it from the school.
  • Season 2, Episode 20: “I Will Always Loathe You” In this installment, Aunt Dolly and Miley's Mamaw visit to support Miley. However, their constant bickering inadvertently complicates the visit.
  • Season 4, Episode 11: “Kiss It Goodbye” As Miley navigates her life after revealing her dual identity as Miley Stewart and Hannah Montana, she faces challenges with privacy. Aunt Dolly arrives via a pink helicopter to help Miley manage the paparazzi and adjust to life in the public eye.