Music icon, singer and songwriter Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80.
Parton’s death was announced on Tuesday by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, in a video shared on her official social media accounts. He said the legendary entertainer died in Nashville, Tennessee. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Parton enjoyed a career spanning more than six decades and became one of the most successful and influential figures in country music. She was known for timeless hits such as “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” “I Will Always Love You” and “Coat of Many Colors.”
Over the course of her career, she sold more than 100 million records worldwide, won 11 Grammy Awards and received numerous other honours, cementing her place among the most celebrated artists in music history.
Beyond music, Parton built a successful career as an actress, starring in films including 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias. She was also a businesswoman and philanthropist, founding the Dollywood theme park in Tennessee and launching the Imagination Library, a literacy initiative that distributed millions of books to children around the world.
Parton was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and remained active in entertainment and charitable work well into her later years. She had recently spoken about health challenges that affected some of her activities and led to the cancellation of planned appearances, including a Las Vegas residency.
Rising from humble beginnings in rural Tennessee, Parton became an internationally acclaimed entertainer whose influence extended far beyond country music. Her songwriting, performances and philanthropy earned her a global following and widespread admiration.
Tributes from fans, fellow musicians and public figures poured in following the announcement of her death, celebrating a legacy that shaped generations of artists and touched millions of lives around the world.
