Dolly Parton's Manager Seeks Restraining Order Against Nephew, Citing Threats
Manager Danny Nozell accuses security chief Bryan Seaver of demanding money and invoking 'capacity for violence' before his termination.
Dolly Parton's manager, Danny Nozell, has filed for a temporary restraining order against the icon's nephew and former head of security, Bryan Seaver, alleging that Seaver made threats and demands prior to his dismissal. The legal documents, filed by Parton's company She's Alive, LLC, claim Seaver invoked his military experience and capacity for violence while demanding money from Nozell.
Nozell stated in the filing that Seaver's behavior escalated in the weeks leading up to Parton's death on August 25. According to documents reviewed by TMZ, Seaver allegedly told Nozell, "Her money better be bigger than I can make elsewhere or I'm going to f*** everyone. I am about to become the hand of retribution for my entire family." Another communication cited in the filing read, "All I do is warfare … everyone needs to be worried about what I might do."
Seaver also reportedly told Nozell he planned to launch a podcast dedicated to damaging Parton's brand partnerships and detailing alleged violations. In response to the restraining order request, Seaver, who identified himself as a career soldier and military contractor, stated that while he conducts arms deals for foreign governments and considers himself a "killer," his comments were not threats. He claimed the texts were taken out of context and represented "rage talk" between friends grieving.
Nozell requested that the court order Seaver to stay at least 1,000 feet away from Parton's office and cease all contact with her businesses and affiliates. Seaver was fired from his security role on September 15.
Seaver's security organizations had been responsible for protecting Parton's Nashville home, museum, and a warehouse. Sources close to Seaver indicated dismay at his termination and the subsequent replacement of his teams by another company, which they believe was orchestrated by Nozell and Pinnacle Bank. Seaver's camp expressed resolve to fulfill Parton's "final directive to protect her family" and stated they refuse to be intimidated by actions they believe are being taken in bad faith, with the intent to profit from Parton's legacy.
Seaver, whose mother is Parton's sister, was appointed by the late singer to announce her death publicly. In a video released after Parton's passing, Seaver stated his father had previously held the security position and that he had served as head of security for two decades, working for Parton for over four decades. He recalled traveling with Parton as a child in the early 1980s and credited her with opening doors for his family and for aspiring artists worldwide.
Since Parton's death, there have been numerous tributes, including an expansive memorial at the Primetime Emmy Awards. Nashville International Airport is also slated to be renamed in her memory.