Dolly Parton, 80, has shared that she is currently facing health challenges, which she attributes to not prioritizing her own well-being while attending to her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, who passed away in March 2025. Parton disclosed these ongoing health issues in a recent interview, noting that she is still actively working despite her condition.
Last week, Parton was compelled to cancel an appearance at her Dollywood theme park. She explained in a prerecorded video message that her doctor advised her against traveling due to persisting "health issues," including experiencing dizziness and dehydration. "I guess if your doctor tells you you ain’t traveling this week, you ain’t traveling this week," she stated, apologizing for her absence.
Parton, who has a history of health struggles, including kidney stones in September 2025 and a postponed Las Vegas residency due to "health challenges," reassured fans that she is responding well to treatments and is improving daily. She also mentioned that her current conditions are treatable. "The good news is I’m responding really well to meds and treatments and I’m improving every day," she said at the time.
The Grammy winner also had to miss her 80th birthday celebration at the Grand Ole Opry in January. However, she has continued to engage in professional activities, including work on her upcoming Broadway production, "Dolly: A True Original Musical," and the opening of her Songteller Hotel in Nashville. She is also launching a new line of dog treats and a coffee collaboration.
Parton reflected on how modern social media amplifies public concern regarding her health. "I think because we live in a 24/7 world with social media, everything gets magnified in ways it wasn’t years ago," she commented. She is also exploring the development of "avatar performances" as a way to continue her work without the demands of traditional touring.