Dolly Parton, the legendary singer-songwriter and country music icon, has died at the age of 80. The news was shared by her nephew, Brian Seaver, in an emotional Instagram video on August 25, 2026. Seaver, who has been a part of Parton's life as her head of security for over two decades, expressed both pride and sadness in announcing her passing, stating, "Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents and countless others who have watched her and longed to meet her in the heavens."

Parton’s health had been a concern in recent months, especially following the death of her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, in March 2025. Just days before her passing, she shared an update about her health struggles, acknowledging that she had been dealing with various issues that had gone unnoticed while she cared for her late husband. In a video message, she remarked, "I still have so many things I want to achieve, so I’m gonna keep on working as long as I can to see everything come to life." This statement resonated with her fans, as it showcased her relentless spirit and dedication to her craft.

Throughout her illustrious career, Parton became the best-selling female country music artist of all time, with over 160 million albums sold worldwide. Her debut album, _Hello, I’m Dolly_, was released in 1967, and she went on to create numerous hits, including classics like "I Will Always Love You," "9 to 5," and "Jolene." Parton was not only a musical icon but also a talented actress, starring in films such as _9 to 5_ and _Steel Magnolias_.

Born in Pittman Center, Tennessee, in 1946, Parton was the fourth of twelve children in a poor family. Despite the hardships of her upbringing, she rose to become one of the most beloved figures in the entertainment industry. Her contributions to music and film have left an indelible mark, and she will be remembered for her talent, generosity, and the joy she brought to millions.