Elton John has joined the sea of tribute posts marking the sad loss of Dolly Parton, who passed away today following a brief battle with an undisclosed form of cancer. Her family released a statement online to announce the devastating news, and people across the world have already been mourning the huge loss.
What Did Elton John Say?
Elton John took to his social media to post a simple black and white statement expressing his simultaneous feelings of shock and pain. The “Rocketman” actor penned: “Shock and devastated to hear of Dolly’s passing. A giant of an artist – unique and irreplaceable, with the kindest heart.”
Elton and Doll performed together back at the annual Country Music Association Awards in 2005. Elton sat and sang behind a piano while Dolly bounded around the stage with a presence like light in a pair of wide bell bottom denim jeans.
The pair performed two songs together at the event – “Turn the Lights Out When You Leave” from Elton’s album “Peachtree Road” and a rendition of the classic song “Imagine” by John Lennon. Critics hailed the performance at the time as a huge cultural moment, where two major stars showed immaculate synergy on stage.
Dolly’s Family Share She Has Passed Away
Dolly Parton’s family posted a video message to her social media profiles today announcing that she had passed away. Bryan Seaver read out the tragic news, speaking to a camera. He shared: “Hey everyone, my name is Bryan Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, and I am representing the Parton and Owens family today announcing the passing of my aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean.
“Sister, sis, aunt, granny to one generation, and Gigi to the next. This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago before I fully absorbed it as a future reality. As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now. It is an honor, an honor that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, but not with Dolly.
“Dolly has lived in the light […] met by Carl, her parents, and countless others who have watched her and longed for her to meet them in the heavens. […] Dolly also opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians and dreamers from every walk of life , and across every continent. By her example, we believed that anything was possible.
“She never saw a door she couldn’t open, and the doors she opened made and changed history. My family and I have shared a lifetime of beautiful memories with Dolly, but so have you. She has always been on your television, your record player, your CD, and your phone playlist becoming an extended part of your family.”
Rest in peace to Dolly Parton and best wishes to her loved ones. Your legacy shall live on and you’ll continue to be remembered in the hearts of so many.
