Dolly Parton, 80, has canceled a planned appearance at her Dollywood theme park due to ongoing health concerns. The "Jolene" singer was scheduled to attend the grand opening of the park's new rollercoaster, NightFlight Expedition, on Friday but instead made a virtual appearance from Nashville.
Parton explained in a video message to fans that she has been experiencing "a few little health issues," including feeling "a little dizzy" and dehydrated. Her doctor has advised her against traveling this week. "So I guess if your doctor tells you you ain't traveling this week, you ain't traveling this week," she stated in the video.
Fans expressed concern for the singer on social media, with one Instagram user writing, "I'm so, so concerned about her health." Another commented, "Queen Dolly we love you always and feel better soon."
This is not the first recent health-related cancellation for Parton. In May, she canceled a six-date Las Vegas residency, initially scheduled for September, citing undisclosed "health challenges." At the time, she shared that she had issues with kidney stones and that her immune and digestive systems needed rebuilding. She noted that while treatments were improving her condition, some medications caused dizziness, making it difficult to perform. Parton's residency was later postponed to September 2026.
In January, prior to her 80th birthday, Parton addressed health worries in an interview with People, stating, "Unless my health gives way, which right now I seem to be doing fine." She also experienced a period of feeling worn down and worn out after the death of her husband, Carl Dean, who passed away on March 3, 2025, at age 82. Her brother, Coy "Denver" Parton, also died in July at age 82.
Despite these health concerns, Parton has maintained a public presence. In June, she appeared at the opening of Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop in Cornersville, Tennessee. Earlier in March, she attended the 41st season opening day celebration at Dollywood. She also made a virtual appearance at the 2026 BRIT Awards.
Dollywood is located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, approximately three hours from Nashville.