Dolly Parton's Posthumous Memoir Fetches $13 Million in Bidding War
A previously undisclosed memoir by the late country music icon has been sold for a significant sum following an intense auction.
A secret memoir penned by the late Dolly Parton has reportedly sold for $13 million after an intense bidding war between publishers, Page Six reported. The transaction occurred approximately two months after the death of the beloved country music singer.
Grand Central Publishing ultimately secured the rights to the book, which was sold by Folio Literary Management, the same agency that handled Parton's 2020 memoir, "Songteller: My Life in Lyrics."
Sources described a competitive auction that reached a point where Folio informed publishers that a $12 million offer had been received. This prompted a pause in bidding, after which Folio reportedly re-engaged with editors. Grand Central Publishing then increased its offer to secure the book.
While some insiders suggest the final price may have been slightly lower than $13 million, the deal is said to include a 50/50 split in royalties, a higher-than-usual share for the author's estate.
Parton's earnings from this posthumous work place her among the ranks of major celebrity memoirists. Britney Spears reportedly received a $15 million advance for her memoir "The Woman In Me," Bruce Springsteen earned a $10 million advance for "Born to Run," Amy Schumer received $8 million for "The Girl With The Lower Back Tattoo," and Keith Richards reportedly garnered $7 million for "Life."
It remains unclear when Parton wrote the memoir, but her previous manager indicated that she was actively working until the day she died. A press release following her death stated that she had been working with a handpicked team for several years to develop a project roadmap for her legacy. "Many projects were in various stages of development," the statement read, assuring fans that projects launched through official channels had her personal approval.
Dolly Parton passed away on August 28 at the age of 80 after a battle with cancer. Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, announced her death, stating it was in accordance with her wishes. He described her as having "lived in the light" and being in the "arms of Jesus."
Following her death, Parton's niece, Danielle, was named the brand ambassador for the late icon's estate. Danielle expressed pride in carrying on her aunt's legacy, emphasizing the Parton family values of hard work and big dreams.
Recently, a tribute concert, "CMA Presents I Will Always Love You," was held in Parton's honor, featuring performances by numerous prominent musicians.