Dolly Parton is updating fans about her health after missing a special moment for her Dollywood theme park. In a video posted to Dollywood’s Instagram, the iconic singer and former “The Voice” guest mentor explained why she couldn’t attend Monday’s induction into the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions Hall of Fame.
Parton Shares Candid Health Update
Parton, whose sister recently said she was treated for kidney stones, told fans she has been “dealing with a few health challenges this fall and needed to rest. “
My doctors told me to take it easy for just a little while, and I’m truly sorry I can’t be there,” she said. “I sure wanted to take the chance to say thank you for this incredible honor.”
She thanked the founders of Herschend Group, Jack and Peter Herschend, and praised her Dollywood colleagues for embracing her “big ideas and dreams.” “Somehow the amazing team at Dollywood finds a way to make those dreams come true,” she added.
The Country Star Reflects on Her Dollywood Vision and Shares Gratitude
GettyParton also reflected on the early dream that inspired the Tennessee park. “I still remember when I had the big idea for Dollywood. I dreamed of a place right here in the Smoky Mountains where my family could perform, and where we could provide steady work for the good people in our community,” she said.
The “9 to 5” singer closed her message with a heartfelt thank-you. “So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for this honor, for me and for everyone who makes Dollywood what it is,” she said. “And to all my friends and partners, and to all of you out there helping families make magic every day, in your parks and places, remember that I will always love you.”
Parton Also Missed the Governors Awards After Earlier Health Concerns
Parton’s absence follows another missed appearance earlier this week at the 16th Academy Governors Awards, where she received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. Variety reported she skipped the event for health reasons, though her publicist later told USA Today that she had a scheduling conflict and had planned a virtual appearance.
Fans were already worried in September when Parton postponed her Las Vegas residency. She announced she needed to undergo a series of medical procedures and rescheduled the shows for September 17–26, 2026.
Concern grew again after her sister, Freida Parton, asked fans on Facebook to pray for her. She later clarified she did not mean to alarm anyone.
In October, Parton addressed the speculation directly in an Instagram video. “Back when my husband, Carl, was very sick, that was for a long time. When he passed, I didn’t take care of myself. So I let a lot of things go that I should’ve been taking care of,” she said.
Dolly Says She’s “Okay” and Still Focused on Her Recovery
Parton explained that she has been staying close to home and to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. “Nothing major, but I did have to cancel some things so I could be closer to home and closer to Vanderbilt, you know, where I’m kind of having a few treatments here and there,” she said.
She also addressed the rumors circulating about her health. “There’s just a lot of rumors flying around, but I figured if you heard it from me, you’d know that I was okay,” she said.
Parton ended her message with reassurance. “I’m not ready to die yet. I don’t think God is through with me and I ain’t done working,” she said. “So I love you for caring, and keep praying for me.”
