Beyoncé spoke out about the loss of Dolly Parton in a statement on her official website on August 25, the same day it was announced by Dolly’s nephew that the country music legend had died at the age of 80.
The “Halo” singer wrote, “Dolly, you were the barometer. The north star. Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious. You taught so many lessons on how to be uniquely oneself. I am grateful for your art, your heart, your generosity, your humor, your entrepreneurship. I’m honored that I had the privilege to work with you. I will treasure that forever.”
The tribute went on, “Thank you for your profound impact on the world. You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art. You are truly one of one. Rest peacefully.”
Along with both being elite musicians, Dolly and the former Destiny’s Child lead shared being former “American Idol” mentors in common. Beyoncé advised the Top 3 contestants during season 10 ahead of the showdown between Scotty McCreery, Lauren Alaina, and Haley Reinhart.
Dolly mentored back in season 7 during the Top 9 week, which was country-themed with every contestant singing one of her songs.
Dolly Parton Collaborated on Beyoncé’s ‘Cowboy Carter’
Dolly contributed to Beyoncé’s March 2024 album “Cowboy Carter, which went on to win Album of the Year at the 2025 Grammy Awards, in several ways. On the song Tyrant, she briefly sang during the intro, and on Queen Bey’s cover of “Jolene,” she gave a fun spoken-word intro.
Dolly Parton’s Cause of Death Confirmed as Cancer
Soon after Dolly’s nephew said in an announcement video on her Instagram page that she had passed away, People reported her family confirmed the star’s death followed a “brief battle with cancer.” Thy did not disclose what type.
She was admitted to the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville on Friday, Aug. 21, where she died four days before her death, the report says.
In a courageous video statement played at Dollywood the week before she died, Dolly sounded strong and hopeful, reassuring fans that although she was facing “hard times” with her health, she said everything was okay.
A portion of the obituary posted on Dolly’s Instagram today read: “A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family. Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”
Her family asked fans to keep the superstar in their memory and pay respects by tagging her on social media and by sending donations to her Imagination Library.
