Fans around the globe were shocked and saddened to learn that country music sensation, Dolly Parton, had passed away at 80 after a brief cancer battle.
On Tuesday, August 25, 2026, her nephew made a formal announcement on her social media channels, announcing her passing. Though Dolly Parton has departed this world, she will never be forgotten. In fact, many fans are eagerly looking for ways to honor her memory and legacy.
As “Dancing With the Stars” season 35 rapidly approaches, fans are demanding a themed night in her honor.
‘Dancing With the Stars’ Fans Will Always Love Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton touched the lives and hearts of listeners all over the world. In light of her passing, many celebrities honored her memory with love and kind words.
In an emotional Instagram tribute, “Dancing With the Stars” head judge Derek Hough shared his own favorite memory involving the late singer.
“Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Dolly Parton, She was an absolute icon, a true legend not just for her music, but for her spirit, her kindness, her joy, her light,” the entertainer wrote.
“I was lucky enough to share the stage with her, something I will never take for granted. Her music and the way she made people feel will live on forever. Sending love to all she touched. Thank you, Dolly. You will never be forgotten ♥️” Hough concluded.
Many fans enjoyed seeing the sweet throwback photo of a young Derek Hough proudly standing beside Dolly Parton. Others chimed in and said how badly they wanted to see a Dolly Parton themed night on this season of “Dancing With the Stars.”
There have been plenty of themed nights honoring other musical icons. It would be the perfect way for the show to cherish her memory.
“Can we please have a Dolly tribute night!!!!” one of Hough’s Instagram followers wrote in the comments.
“Please @dancingwiththestars we need a DOLLY theme night on DWTS. If there is any one celeb that can unite our fractured country, you can bet it’s Dolly, 😂 💐 🎸” another quipped.
“❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️Yes, please a Dolly tribute night. She will never be forgotten. Her kindness for all humanity was truly inspiring,” someone else added.
Fans Look For Ways to Keep the Singer’s Memory Alive
As fans mourn the loss of Dolly Parton, her family is carrying out her final requests. As per the singer’s wishes, she will be laid to rest in a private ceremony for her closest friends and family members.
However, Dolly also adored her fans. Though she didn’t want an elaborate, public funeral, she would have loved to know that fans are donating to her favorite causes and keeping her legacy alive. Fans can make donations to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library through her official website.
“Dancing With the Stars” season 35 premieres at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, September 15, on ABC. There will be a second episode on Wednesday, September 16, on the network at 8 p.m. Time will tell if DWTS execs grant fans their wish.
