Country music icon Dolly Parton passed away at 80 on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, following a private battle with cancer. Immediately following the news, fans, friends, and celebrities penned beautiful tributes to her memory.
Many fans loved Dolly for her music, but many more fell in love with her kindness, sincerity, and generosity.
In a new social media post, MTV personality Johnny Knoxville fondly remembered his own encounter with Dolly Parton.
Johnny Knoxville Once Saw Dolly Parton in Hollywood
Dolly Parton was widely beloved all over the world. Even “Jackass” star Johnny Knoxville had nothing but kind things to say about the singer, who he completely idolized.
“Sad, sad day just heard Dolly Parton has passed away,” the stunt performer shared on Instagram, attaching a photo of Dolly in her youth. “One of the greatest singer-songwriters and all around performers of hers and any generation. She made me proud to be a Tennesseean.”
Knoxville went on to describe how much Dolly Parton inspired him as a young man. He wished he had the opportunity to thank her in person.
“Well that’s not true, I did bump into her 20 years ago walking out of the bathroom at Yamashiro’s restaurant in Hollywood. She walked out right before me and I froze, totally star struck. One of the handful of times that has ever happened to me,” the MTV personality quipped.
Once Johnny Knoxville came to his senses, he decided not to bother the singer. However, he admitted to “stealing glances from afar.” In hindsight, he wished he had said hello.
“I’m just grateful I have her celestial music, films and the feeling that she gave to a little boy from South Knoxville, Tn,” he continued. “The feeling that maybe one day he could forge a path for himself. Not to the extent she did, not anywhere close but she gave me hope. Dolly I didn’t thank you then so I want to say thank you now. Thank you for your art, for your charity, and giving truck to my dreams. You made the world a better place and will be missed.❤️”
Fans Tear Up at Johnny Knoxville’s Lovely Tribute
Many fans truly appreciated Johnny Knoxville’s endearing tribute to Dolly Parton. Several echoed his sentiments and noted that she also made them feel proud to be from Tennessee.
“You had a human reaction which she likely appreciated. Nice write up. She was an icon but a beautiful soul. So sad today,” one social media follower replied.
“She made me proud to be a Tennessean too. Well said, rip Dolly 🤍” another added.
“Beautiful tribute to our East Tennessee Queen!” a third fan chimed in.
At the end of the day, it seems that everyone agreed that Dolly Parton was truly a gift to humanity.
As per Dolly Parton’s wishes, there will be a small, private funeral for her close family and loved ones. However, she would love for fans to honor her legacy by continuing her philanthropy work. Fans can make donations to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library at the official website.
