Dolly Parton Quashes Health Rumors Directly From the Opry Set
Dolly Parton is offering comfort to her admirers after recent concerns arose regarding her health.
“I have something to share,” the 79-year-old superstar initiated in a two-minute clip posted to social media on Wednesday, October 8. “It’s October 8th, and as you can see, I’m on set filming advertisements for the Grand Ole Opry, which explains my country-western attire.”
She went on, “Before diving into work, I felt compelled to address the recent belief that my health is worse than it truly is. Do I appear unwell? I’m actively engaged in my work. Regardless, I aimed to alleviate the worries of those genuinely concerned, which I value deeply. Your prayers are also greatly appreciated, as I am a woman of faith and welcome spiritual support for all aspects of life. However, I assure you, I am doing fine.”
Parton acknowledged having “a few [health] issues,” which she confirmed she had “referenced” on earlier occasions.
Dolly Parton's Representative Confirms She's Well, Addressing Kidney Stones
“During the period my husband, Carl, was gravely ill, which spanned a considerable time, and subsequent to his passing, I neglected my own well-being, allowing several important health matters to lapse,” she explained. “Eventually, when I addressed them, my doctors advised that various issues needed attention. None of them were critical, but I did need to reschedule some commitments to remain near home and Vanderbilt [University Medical Center] for occasional treatments. Crucially, I want everyone to understand that I am not on my deathbed.”
Parton then brought up a fabricated image circulating, depicting her and Reba McEntire, which had intensified the speculative chatter.
I ain’t dead yet!
— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) October 8, 2025
“Have you seen that artificial intelligence-generated image of Reba and myself? My goodness. They depicted Reba by my deathbed, and honestly, we both appeared as though we were ready for burial,” she recounted. “However, I considered, ‘Goodness gracious, if my end were truly near, I doubt Reba would be the one at my bedside.’ She might drop by earlier, but regardless, many unverified stories are circulating. I believed that hearing it directly from me would confirm my well-being. So, in summary, that was my message: I’m not prepared to depart this world yet. I sense God still has plans for me, and I have more work to do. I appreciate your concern, and please continue your prayers.”
On Tuesday, October 7, Dolly’s sister, Freida Parton, caused a stir among admirers after she posted on Facebook about being “awake all night praying” for the iconic “Jolene” vocalist.
Another Sibling of Dolly Parton Addresses the Star’s Health Status
“Many are aware that she hasn’t been at her peak health recently. I hold a firm belief in the efficacy of prayer and feel compelled to urge everyone who cherishes her globally to join me as prayer warriors,” Freida elaborated. “She possesses strength, is deeply adored, and with the collective prayers being offered, I am certain in my spirit that she will recover completely. Godspeed, my dear Dolly. We all send our love.”
Subsequently, Dolly’s manager, Olly Rowland, provided reassurance to fans on Tuesday, confirming Dolly’s robust health.
“The issue simply involves kidney stones and the necessary procedure to address them,” Rowland informed the Las Vegas Review-Journal. “It appears her sister’s post led to the situation being somewhat disproportionately exaggerated, surprisingly.”
