US country music legend Dolly Parton dies at 80

Dolly Parton, the iconic American country music star whose career spanned six decades, has died at the age of 80. Her family confirmed her passing on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, with her nephew sharing a heartfelt tribute on social media.

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Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus.

"Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus," her nephew Bryan Seaver said in a video. He further lauded her impact, stating that she "opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians, and dreamers from every walk of life." Seaver added, "By her example, we believed that anything was possible. She never saw a door she couldn’t open, and the doors she opened made and changed history."

Parton, a prolific artist who penned around 3,000 tunes, achieved global fame with hits such as "Jolene" and "Coat of Many Colors." Her rendition of "I Will Always Love You" became an international sensation when sung by Whitney Houston. Releasing 49 studio albums and numerous compilations, she earned the title "queen of country music."

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She opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians, and dreamers from every walk of life.

While the cause of death was not disclosed, the singer had recently spoken about her ill health. She had announced the cancellation of a series of Las Vegas concerts in May due to ongoing health concerns. Her husband, Carl Dean, passed away last year.

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By her example, we believed that anything was possible. She never saw a door she couldn’t open, and the doors she opened made and changed history.