Dolly Parton's manager, Danny Nozell, has voluntarily dismissed a lawsuit against the country music legend's nephew, Bryan Seaver. The dismissal, filed on Thursday, marks a potential end to the legal wrangling that emerged shortly after Parton's death in August.
Nozell had accused Seaver of threatening the business interests of Parton's estate to extract payments. However, Nozell's legal team requested the lawsuit be dismissed without prejudice, meaning the possibility of refiling remains. The next court hearing was scheduled for November 10.
Seaver's attorney, Dominic J. Leonardo, stated that Seaver "cares deeply about his Aunt Dolly, her music, her family, and the incredible legacy she left behind." He added that Seaver is grateful to put the "misunderstanding" behind him so the family can grieve peacefully. Representatives for both parties have not yet clarified the reason for the dismissal or if a settlement has been reached.
Seaver had previously denied the allegations, claiming that text messages perceived as threatening were intended as jokes. He also recently defended his sister, Rebecca Seaver, after her firing from Parton's Life of Many Colors Museum in Nashville. Rebecca Seaver had worked on the museum, which opened in September, with Parton's sister Rachel Parton George.
Seaver himself was let go in September from his role as security chief for Parton's properties and businesses. This led to the legal situation where Nozell accused Seaver of making threats, which Seaver denied. In court filings, Seaver asserted that text messages, including those referencing his military experience and weapons, were taken out of context. He claimed that discussions about "destroying Dolly's brand partnerships" referred to business maneuvers, not acts of violence.
The dispute also involved an outstanding $251,000 payment to Seaver's company, Squadron Augmented Protection Services, for services rendered at properties owned by the late entertainer. Seaver cited issues at the SongTeller Hotel in Nashville, including safety infractions and construction delays, and presented a letter from Parton dated November 11, 2024, that praised his organization's professionalism and discretion.