According to a report by The Sun Nigeria on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, Country music legend Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80 following a brief battle with cancer, her representatives have confirmed.
Parton died on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Tennessee, where she was surrounded by members of her family and loved ones. Her representatives confirmed that she had been battling cancer but did not disclose the specific type of cancer involved.
The confirmation came after Parton’s death was initially announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, in a video shared on social media. Her passing prompted an immediate outpouring of grief from fans, fellow musicians, actors and other public figures around the world.
According to her representatives, Parton had spent her final days receiving treatment at the Nashville cancer centre. She had reportedly experienced health problems in recent months and had been admitted to hospital shortly before her death. Despite concerns about her health, people close to the singer were said to have remained hopeful that she would recover.
Her representatives described Parton as someone who devoted her life to bringing happiness, hope and kindness to others. They also highlighted her philanthropic work, particularly through her Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a literacy initiative that provides books to children.
Parton’s influence extended far beyond music. Over a career spanning about seven decades, she became one of the most recognisable figures in country music and popular culture, recording internationally celebrated songs including Jolene, 9 to 5, Coat of Many Colors and I Will Always Love You. Reuters reported that she sold more than 100 million records and received 11 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Her contributions also reached film, television, business and philanthropy. She starred in films including 9 to 5 and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, while her business ventures helped establish her as one of the most successful entertainers outside the recording industry.
Parton was also widely respected for her charitable activities. Her Imagination Library became one of her most prominent philanthropic projects, distributing books to children and promoting early childhood literacy. She also supported medical research, including a $1 million donation towards COVID-19 vaccine research.
Tributes began pouring in shortly after news of her death became public. Taylor Swift remembered Parton as an inspiration, while Beyoncé described her as a “north star” for generations of artists. Other stars, including Reba McEntire, Lily Tomlin, Paul McCartney and Elton John, also joined the growing list of celebrities honouring her life and achievements.
US President Donald Trump also ordered American flags to be flown at half-staff through September 1 as a mark of respect for Parton.
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