Dolly Parton, legendary US country singer, dies aged 80

Legendary country music singer Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80

“Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience,” her team says – read their statement in full

The country legend sold more than 100 million records worldwide, and wrote over 3,000 songs in a career that spanned six decades

From growing up on a “dirt poor” farm to stardom, no-one did it like Dolly, writes our music correspondent Mark Savage

Raised in poverty in a one-room cabin in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, Parton was the fourth youngest of 12 children

● A ‘small, private service’ to be held for Parton’s immediate family

A “small, private service will be held for [Dolly Parton’s] immediate family”, at her request, a post on the country music star’s Instagram account says.

“Dolly’s fans and friends from around the world are encouraged to pay tribute to Dolly on social media by tagging @DollyParton, external or by leaving a message at www.dollyparton.com,” the post adds.

● Fans sign condolences book at Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville

People gather at the Country Music Hall of Fame after it was announced that country music icon Dolly Parton died aged 80, in Nashville, Tennessee, U.S., August 25, 2026.
Image source,Reuters
Parton’s fans are converging at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee, to sign a guest book as part of the museum’s exhibition, Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker.

The exhibition, which runs through 4 October, focuses on turning points in the singer’s life and career, when she “overcame obstacles and ignored naysayers to become one of the most beloved and widely recognised celebrities across the world”, the organisation says.

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Following news of her death, a frame was placed by the guest book with a message encouraging visitors to share memories and condolences in the book, which will be delivered to the Parton family.

BBC