Dolly Parton makes first public appearance in months and shares health update

Dolly Parton made her first public appearance of the year on Friday (March 13), reassuring fans she is rebuilding her health following health challenges and the death of her husband, Carl Dean, whom she was married to for 58 years before his death in March 2025.

On the first day of the season at her renowned Dollywood theme park in Tennessee, the country music icon addressed the crowd, explaining that the past year had taken a toll on her both physically and emotionally.

“I’ve not been touring, as you know. I’ve had a few little health issues, and we’re taking good care of them,” said Parton.

“I just kind of got worn down and worn out, grieving over Carl and a lot of other little things going on.

“I just got myself kind of where I needed to build myself back up spiritually, emotionally, and physically. But all is good. It didn’t slow me down.

“I’ve just been doing a lot of writing, a lot of thinking, a lot of praying and a lot of getting ready for a lot of new stuff coming up for the rest of this whole year. So, be ready for me. I ain’t done, I ain’t near done.”

Earlier this year she celebrated her 80th birthday by releasing a special new version of her 1977 song 'Light Of A Clear Blue Morning'.

The updated recording featured an all-star line-up including Queen Latifah, Reba McEntire, Lainey Wilson, and Parton’s goddaughter Miley Cyrus. U2 frontman Bono also surprised Parton by sending a bagpiper to play for her on her 80th birthday.

Nashville-based Irish musician Patrick D'Arcy performed the tune of ‘Happy Birthday’ on the bagpipes as the country icon was presented with a cake, which had "Love ... Bono" in iced lettering as well as some candles.

To celebrate Dolly's birthday, Hot Press revisited and republished an interview with the American music icon.

Originally published in 2014, the interview is available to read here.

• Watch Dolly Parton at the opening of Dollywood's 41st season below: