Iconic country singer Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, her nephew Bryan Seaver confirmed in an Instagram video. The announcement was made on August 25, 2026.
Seaver, who has served as Parton's head of security for over two decades, shared the news, stating that the video announcement was something Parton had requested of him years prior. "Dolly has lived the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents, and countless others who have watched her and longed for her to meet them in the heavens," Seaver said in his statement. He added, "Sadness lies with us, not with Dolly."
Parton had reportedly been open about facing a series of health challenges following the death of her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, in 2025. Tributes from fans and colleagues have begun to pour in following the news of her death.