Reese Witherspoon has shared intimate details of her friendship with Dolly Parton, revealing how the country music icon provided guidance and encouragement throughout her career. Parton, who passed away at age 80 after a private battle with cancer, played a significant role in Witherspoon's life, offering support that extended to her Oscar-winning performance in the 2005 film 'Walk the Line.'
Witherspoon portrayed June Carter Cash in the biopic, a role for which she received critical acclaim. Parton, who knew June Carter personally, shared stories and insights that helped Witherspoon embody the character. "When I was playing June Carter Cash in Walk the Line, she took me to dinner and told me stories of how June Carter charmed everyone in country music," Witherspoon recalled.
Parton's influence extended beyond specific roles. Witherspoon noted that Parton consistently sent her notes of encouragement, advising her to "be the light in people’s lives and listen to my angels." Parton would often sign off her messages with "I will always love you," a poignant reference to her signature song.
Parton's classic song "I Will Always Love You" became a global phenomenon after Whitney Houston's rendition for the 1992 film 'The Bodyguard.' Parton famously retained the publishing rights to the song, resisting an offer from Elvis Presley's manager. This decision proved lucrative when Houston's version became a massive hit.
Witherspoon also revealed that Parton had inspired her own ambitions from a young age. As a kindergartener in Nashville, Witherspoon, then known as Reesie, declared her dream of becoming famous like Dolly Parton. "And I meant it. I did not even blink. And she said: 'You're gonna be Dolly Parton?' I said: 'Mmm-hmm. I'm gonna be famous like Miss Dolly Parton, and she's from Tennessee, and if she can do it then I can do it,'" Witherspoon recounted.
When Witherspoon co-founded her production company, Hello Sunshine, in 2016 with a focus on female-centric projects, Parton offered her support and encouragement. Parton had previously spoken about the possibility of Witherspoon playing her in a biopic, humorously remarking on Witherspoon's physique not being as ample as her own, but acknowledging her talent and suitability for the role.
News of Parton's death was confirmed by her nephew Bryan Seaver. The country music legend will be buried in Nashville beside her husband, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025. Parton's nephew specified that she would be interred in a cotton dress and her signature high heels. Parton had been battling unspecified health issues in the months leading up to her death, and had spoken about having "so many things I want to achieve."