American country music legend Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, her nephew Brian Seaver confirmed on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
Seaver announced her passing in a video statement posted on Parton's official Instagram account on Tuesday afternoon. No details regarding the cause of death were immediately provided by her family or representatives.
In the video message, Seaver paid tribute to his aunt's legacy, recalling that while his grandfather had cultivated the land, Parton spent her life cultivating songs and happiness. He stated that Parton had called him to say she wished to rest in a bed of soft cotton, explaining that after a lifetime of wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserved comfort and rest. Seaver concluded his tribute with a farewell to Aunt Dolly, Aunt Grandma, and Gigi.
Born in 1946 in Sevier County, Tennessee, Parton rose to become one of the most revered figures in American music history. Over a career spanning six decades, the singer and songwriter built an iconic catalog that included solo chart-toppers such as Jolene and I Will Always Love You. Beyond her solo career, Parton was widely celebrated for her versatile vocal collaborations across country, pop, rock, and hip-hop.
High-Profile Musical Collaborations
Among her most famous musical partnerships was the 1983 duet Islands in the Stream, recorded alongside country music legend Kenny Rogers. Written by the Bee Gees, the song was officially recorded by Parton and Rogers for his album Eyes That See in the Dark. At the time of its release, the crossover track became a major commercial success, uniting two of the biggest star names in country music.
Parton also teamed up with Spanish singer Julio Iglesias for the romantic ballad When You Tell Me That You Love Me. Produced by Canadian hitmaker David Foster, the song was originally recorded by Motown star Diana Ross in 1991. The duet combined the smooth romantic style of Iglesias with Parton's distinctive vocal delivery.
Pop and Genre-Crossing Partnerships
In more recent years, Parton continued to connect with younger generations of music listeners through high-profile guest appearances. She collaborated with her goddaughter Miley Cyrus on the track Rainbowland, featured on Cyrus's 2017 album Younger Now. The song, which features metaphorical lyrics about harmony and inclusion, generated wide discussion across social media platforms after it was banned by a primary school in the United States.
Parton also engaged in unexpected genre-crossing collaborations, including a duet with musician Post Malone titled Have the Heart. Post Malone, who initially built his career in hip-hop and rap, included the track on his album F-1 Trillion. The collaboration marked a key moment in his transition toward country music.
More recently, pop singer Sabrina Carpenter released a re-recorded remix of her hit single Please, Please, Please featuring Parton on February 14, 2025. Following the late-night release of the track, Carpenter and Parton shared a black-and-white music video across social media channels to showcase the partnership.
Reporting and Coverage
The news of Parton's passing was originally reported by Luiza Zequim for CNN Brasil, under the editorial supervision of Ana Beatriz Dias. Further details regarding memorial services or public tributes have not yet been announced by her family.
