The Hollywood Walk of Fame star for Dolly Parton is to be replaced after it was vandalized in recent days. According to reports, the monument was damaged earlier this week.
The star had previously been turned into an impromptu memorial following Parton’s death at the age of 80 on August 25. Fans gathered at the landmark to pay tribute to the legendary country singer, laying flowers, candles, photographs, and messages. But damage was discovered earlier this week, including deep scratches across the star’s surface. Parton’s name on the star had also been partially carved out.
Now, the Hollywood Historic Trust has revealed it has replaced the star. It will be unveiled later on Friday 4 September after being polished and installed. The organization said it was “proud to honor the legacy of Dolly Parton” with the replacement.
Dolly Parton’s Star Was Damaged Days After Her Death
After her death, memorials sprang up around the country in locations that are connected to Parton. However, her Hollywood star became one of the most visible gathering places, giving fans somewhere to mourn the later singer.
Located at 6712 Hollywood Boulevard, Parton’s star dates back to 1984. The landmark and surrounding sidewalk was almost completely covered in recent weeks by flowers and tributes. Videos and photographs posted online earlier this week showed extensive damage to the star. Officials later said the damage appears to have been caused in a deliberate act of vandalism.
The Hollywood Historic Trust announced on Instagram that a new star had been created. “The Hollywood Historic Trust and Hollywood Chamber of Commerce are proud to honour the legacy of Dolly Parton with a replacement of her star,” the statement reads.
It added, “The new star will be available for viewing this Friday.”
Dolly Parton’s Star Was Already Scheduled for Repairs
Coincidentally, Parton’s star was already due to be removed for restoration before her death. After four decades, cracks had appeared on the surface. The Hollywood Historic Trust had subsequently placed it on a repair list, although it was deemed low priority before her death.
“When she passed, the Hollywood Historic Trust and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce made the decision to move her repair timeline up, in order to honor her life and legacy,” Hollywood Historic Trust Executive Director Lily Weiner told CBS News.
The Star could not be replaced immediately as some of the material takes several days to cure. Officials expect that it will be ready on Friday in time for it to be shown to the public again.
Tributes to Dolly Parton Continue Following Her Death
Since Parton tragically died last month, there have been a growing number of tributes. Dollywood has already announced a set of permanent new features and tributes to honor Parton. This includes a new waterfall and a stained-glass window.
Meanwhile, she was buried in a private ceremony next to her husband Carl Dean. The couple had been married for almost 60 years when he sadly passed away last year. The singer had previously revealed that she wanted her final resting place to be with her husband.
