Richard Madeley became visibly emotional on Wednesday's "Good Morning Britain" as he recounted an interview with the country music legend Dolly Parton. The tribute segment aired following news of Parton's death.
Madeley, 70, described a satellite interview he conducted with Parton years ago, recalling his first meeting with her on "This Morning" alongside his wife, Judy Finnigan, 78. His voice cracked as he began the anecdote, prompting a supportive gesture from co-host Ranvir Singh. After a brief pause to compose himself, Madeley shared a humorous exchange from the interview. He recalled asking Parton about her feet after she repeatedly extended them during the conversation, to which she quipped, "Nothing grows in the shade honey!"
Madeley commented that while some of Parton's famous one-liners may have been crafted, he believed that particular quip was spontaneous. He praised her "sharp wit" and described her as "as smart as a whip."
Fellow presenter Richard Arnold, 56, added to the tribute, noting Parton's "grit and wit," which he attributed to her upbringing. He mentioned that friends nicknamed her the "Dolly Lama" for her "gems and pearls of wisdom" and her ability to articulate thoughts with a unique turn of phrase.
Dolly Parton's death was confirmed on Tuesday via an Instagram video posted by her nephew, Bryan Seaver. Representatives for the singer stated that she died at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center following a "brief battle with cancer." The specific type of cancer was not disclosed.
Her representatives' statement highlighted Parton's lifelong dedication to bringing "joy, laughter, hope and integrity" into everything she did. It also noted her "unmatched generosity," citing her Imagination Library book donation program and contributions to research that aided in the development of a life-saving vaccine.
Parton's passing came after a period of declining health, which led her to withdraw from several public appearances, including the opening of a new ride at her Dollywood theme park. This event, where a pre-recorded video message from the star was shared, is now considered her last public appearance.
She died just over a year after her husband, Carl Dean, to whom she was married for nearly 60 years. Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, who also served as her head of security, described his aunt as having "lived in the light" and is now "in the arms of Jesus."