Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, co-stars in the 1980 film "9 to 5," have shared their grief following the death of Dolly Parton, who passed away Tuesday at the age of 80. Parton, who launched her acting career with the iconic workplace comedy, was remembered by her close friends and colleagues.
Tomlin expressed her sorrow with a simple,"No words…💔," posted on Instagram alongside a photo of the trio from the film's 1980 premiere. Fonda offered a more extensive tribute, describing Parton as a unique individual.
"I never knew anyone like her," Fonda wrote on social media. "She was simultaneously a naughty, playful southern gal from the hollows of Tennessee and a deep, soulful thinker who could see through people right down to their true selves. She was many things…lyricist, songstress, player of many instruments, writer, prankster, visionary, loyal friend, who’d never go to bed before she and her friends had laughed so hard they’d have to cross their legs."
Fonda also recalled Parton's playful nature, mentioning how she would "stick her butt out the car window and moon Kenny Roger’s (sic) home." She also acknowledged Parton's LGBTQ+ fans and referenced her appearance as an angel in the final episode of "Grace and Frankie."
Patricia Resnick, who co-wrote the screenplay for "9 to 5" with director Colin Higgins, also paid tribute to Parton, calling her "the most wonderful person in the world." Resnick remembered Parton's prolific songwriting ability, noting that she could "write a song faster than anyone I’ve ever known" and would often write music, bake treats for the cast and crew, and sing "Happy Birthday" after a full day of work.
Resnick also stated she never heard Parton raise her voice or speak negatively about anyone. Parton penned the film's hit theme song, which earned an Oscar nomination and two Grammy Awards. The song has become an anthem for office workers and women's rights and was also featured in a musical theater adaptation of the film, for which Parton wrote new songs.
Megan Hilty, who portrayed Parton's character on Broadway, shared her profound loss, stating, "She made more of an impact on me than I can express... and this deep and profound loss will take quite some time to process." Hilty added, "I am so grateful to have been in her orbit and we are all so lucky this actual angel walked among us."
Publicist Wayne Wolfe, who worked on the Broadway production, described Parton as "by far the most lovely soul I’ve ever worked with," adding that she remained consistent whether in private or public settings. He called her death "a terrible loss," and characterized her as "the most professional, smartest, nicest person."
The trio starred as three office workers who conspire against their sexist boss, played by Dabney Coleman, who died in 2024. The film was a significant success, marking a major step in Parton's acting career. Parton's death was announced by her nephew following a sudden decline in her health.