Dolly Parton’s Reps Reveal the Cause of Her Death, Here’s What We Know
Dolly Parton’s representatives have revealed that the country music legend died after a brief battle with cancer. Parton, who was 80, died Tuesday, August 25, at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, surrounded by loved ones, according to a statement from her representatives shared with People magazine.
The news comes after months of concern about Parton’s health. In the days before her death, she had reportedly been dealing with dizziness and dehydration and was unable to attend an event at her Dollywood theme park in Tennessee. Instead, she appeared in a video to introduce the park’s new Nightflight Expedition roller coaster.
Her representatives said Parton continued to think about her fans and the people she had helped throughout her life. In their statement, they highlighted her work with the Imagination Library and her support for medical research.
“Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand,” her representatives said.
They added that her generosity was a major part of the legacy she leaves behind.
“Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact,” the statement continued.
Her representatives then confirmed that Parton had been fighting cancer shortly before her death.
“After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones,” they said.
Parton had previously spoken publicly about having health problems. In an earlier interview, she said that she had been dealing with issues involving her immune and digestive systems. She also explained that she had spent much of her time caring for her husband, Carl Dean, before his death in March 2025.
“I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn’t pay attention to when I was watching over Carl,” Parton said days before her death, according to Variety.
Despite those problems, Parton remained active and continued making plans for the future. She had been working on projects in Nashville, including plans for a new museum and hotel, while also developing business ventures.
Her life story was also headed to Broadway. The musical “Dolly, A True Original Musical” is scheduled to open on January 19, 2027, what would have been Parton’s 81st birthday.
Parton leaves behind a career that stretched across music, film, television and business. She was also known around the world for her philanthropy, especially her work helping children access books through the Imagination Library.
Her death marks the end of one of country music’s most remarkable careers. But through her songs, films and charitable work, Parton’s influence is expected to continue for generations.
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