Dolly Parton dies aged 80; tributes pour in

Dolly Parton, the iconic country singer and philanthropic trailblazer, has died at age 80, with the family confirming the news via an Instagram video posted by her nephew. She leaves a legacy built on legendary songs like Jolene and I Will Always Love You, a career that spanned six decades across country and pop, and a humanitarian impact through her Imagination Library program which has donated millions of books to children. Parton’s rise from poverty in rural Tennessee to global stardom, her songwriting prowess, and her savvy brand have made her one of the most influential figures in music and entertainment. In recent years she faced health challenges that led to cancellations and pauses in planned performances, signaling the end of an era for fans and venues she had long enchanted. Tributes and memorials have poured in from fans and peers worldwide, celebrating her wit, generosity, and boundary-breaking career across music, film, and philanthropy.