Dolly Parton and the bond that united her with Miley Cyrus: 'she is my little favorite'

The profound connection between country music legend Dolly Parton and pop star Miley Cyrus, with Parton serving as Cyrus's godmother, has been a defining relationship in both artists' lives. Parton often spoke of Cyrus as her "little favorite," having known her since before she was born.

“

I love Miley, she is my little favorite, I have known her since before she was born.

Parton's mentorship extended beyond personal affection; she significantly influenced Cyrus's career. This bond led to Parton appearing on Cyrus's popular Disney Channel series, "Hannah Montana," introducing her to a new generation of fans. Parton recalled this collaboration fondly, telling Cyrus during a 2022 special, "I've always been proud of you, and I'm proud to be your fairy godmother. I'm touched that when you had me on 'Hannah Montana,' years ago, you really helped my career... you introduced me to a whole new generation of fans."

“

I've always been proud of you, and I'm proud to be your fairy godmother. I'm touched that when you had me on 'Hannah Montana,' years ago, you really helped my career... you introduced me to a whole new generation of fans.

Their collaborations weren't limited to television. They shared stages, with Parton performing her own rendition of Cyrus's hit "Wrecking Ball" and Cyrus frequently covering Parton's classic "Jolene." Parton also offered unwavering support during challenging times in Cyrus's life and career, notably defending her against harsh criticism following her public image changes and a difficult personal period. "I've done everything, and what I haven't done, I intend to do. She's going to do that too. Miley is smart, she knows what she's doing," Parton stated in a 2019 interview with People magazine.

“

I've done everything, and what I haven't done, I intend to do. She's going to do that too. Miley is smart, she knows what she's doing.

Following news of Parton's death, Cyrus took to social media to express her deep sorrow. "I can't believe we just lost the purest soul. Rest in Glory, Dolly. My heart hurts," she wrote on her X account, mourning the loss of her beloved godmother.

“

I can't believe we just lost the purest soul. Rest in Glory, Dolly. My heart hurts.