Country Music legend Dolly Parton is spreading gratitude this Thanksgiving. On Thursday, November 27, the former ‘The Voice‘ guest mentor wished her followers a Happy Thanksgiving in a heartfelt Instagram video, her first holiday message following her recent health challenges.
Getty“Well hey! It’s Dolly here, and I want to wish all of you and your family blessings this Thanksgiving. I am so thankful for all of you and for the memories that we’ve shared through the years,” she said.
Parton ended with a familiar promise: “So Happy Thanksgiving to everyone, and just know that I will always love you.”
Why Parton’s Message Is Special For Fans?
Her post comes after a stretch of health struggles and several missed public appearances that left fans worried about how she was doing.
She captioned the video, “Wishing you and your family blessings this Thanksgiving ❤️.” Support poured in immediately.
One fan wrote, “You’ve been a sweet comfort to me since my childhood… Wishing you every bit of good, light, and love this holiday season.” Another added, “Happy Thanksgiving Dolly! Thankful for you!”
Another sweet comment on her best read: “The world is a better place because you exist Dolly 🖤”
Fans Send Support After the Loss of Her Husband
Several followers also mentioned the devastating recent loss of Parton’s husband, Carl Dean, who died in March at age 82. One fan wrote, “Dolly, Happy Thanksgiving. I know how hard it is to have a vacant spot at the table. Wishing you a blessed day with your family.”
Another message read: “Thank you, Dolly! You are a true inspiration! Happy Thanksgiving!
I know you are missing Carl. Firsts are hard! ❤️🙏🏻”
Their messages added a layer of tenderness to Parton’s post, which comes during a year marked by major milestones and personal challenges.
Inside Parton’s Health Update and Recent Honors
Parton’s Thanksgiving wishes came days after she appeared virtually at the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions Hall of Fame ceremony on Monday, November 17.
“Well hey there, it’s Dolly,” she said in the video. “And I sure wish I could be with you in person today, but you probably heard that I’ve been dealing with a few health challenges this fall, and my doctors told me to take it easy for just a little while.”
Although unable to attend in person, she thanked her Dollywood partners and apologized for her absence. That recognition followed another major moment.
On November 16, she accepted the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award during the 2025 Governors Awards, calling the honor a “great honor” and “a blessing of a lifetime.”
Parton Is Resting, Recovering, and Still Decorating for the Holidays
In September, Parton postponed her Las Vegas residency from December to September 2026 to focus on her health. But a source recently told People that her spirits remain high and her recovery is moving in the right direction.
“Dolly is getting better every day,” the insider said. “She is at home taking care of herself while many friends and family visit her.” The source added that “in true Dolly spirit she has already started decorating for the holidays — her favorite time of year.”
As she continues to rest, Parton’s Thanksgiving video reminded fans of her signature warmth, her gratitude, and the deep connection she has maintained with fans for decades!
