Vin Diesel faced widespread online criticism for his rendition of Dolly Parton's classic song "I Will Always Love You," released shortly after the country music legend's death at age 80. The actor posted an audio clip to Instagram featuring his emotional cover, which has been met with a largely negative reception.
Parton originally released the song in 1973, with Whitney Houston's 1992 version for the film "The Bodyguard" achieving immense popularity. However, Diesel's contribution quickly drew sharp reactions on social media. Comments included observations that the cover was "really weird" and queries about why it was created.
Some users expressed strong disapproval, with one commenter stating, "This cover is actually what killed her." Others questioned the resources used for the studio session. Amidst a series of notable celebrity deaths in 2026, some users found the timing particularly somber.
Despite the backlash, Diesel's tribute also garnered some support. Fans defended his expression of emotion, with comments such as "I think this is actually pretty sweet" and "Leave him alone because yall see jlo in concert."
Diesel briefly explored a music career during the COVID-19 pandemic, releasing singles such as "Feel Like I Do" and "Days Are Gone."
"I Will Always Love You" was written by Parton about her professional separation from mentor Porter Wagoner. The song topped the US Billboard Hot Country Songs chart twice. Parton notably declined an offer for Elvis Presley to record the song, as his manager demanded half the publishing rights. She later expressed regret at not hearing Presley's rendition, recalling Priscilla Presley's comment about Elvis singing the song to her during their divorce.
The song became a global phenomenon after Whitney Houston's performance in "The Bodyguard," driving the soundtrack to 18-times platinum status.
News of Parton's death revealed she had been privately battling cancer, though the specific type was not disclosed. She is set to be buried in Nashville, Tennessee, beside her husband Carl Dean, who died in March 2025. Parton will be interred in a cotton dress and her signature high heels.
Known as the Queen of Country, Parton's career spanned six decades, with hits including "Jolene" and "9 to 5." Her passing followed a period of declining public appearances due to health issues. In an interview shortly before her death, Parton expressed a desire to continue working and achieving goals, mentioning that she had been neglecting her own health while caring for her husband.