Country singer Dolly Parton has shared details about her current health situation, following the death of her husband Carl Dean last March. She explained that she had been dealing with several health challenges that she had not previously addressed while caring for her late spouse, Carl Thomas Dean. Parton mentioned that earlier in the 1980s, she had spent several months dealing with health issues related to female issues. She also noted how modern life and social media have made her health concerns more visible.
The 80-year-old singer said that she often felt dizzy and dehydrated, which has affected her ability to travel or perform, according to tribune.com.pk. She had previously postponed a run of shows at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace due to health challenges, according to a report from NME. Parton’s sister Freida also posted on social media asking fans to pray for her, expressing concern about Dolly’s well-being.
Despite her health issues, Parton has continued working on several projects including a new museum in Nashville. The Life of Many Colors Museum will be part of the SongTeller Hotel, scheduled to open in September 2026. She described the museum as the largest exhibition dedicated to her life and career anywhere in the world. Parton said she discovered her own book Songteller in the lobby of the building during a tour, which helped confirm it as the right location.
She also announced that she is working on new products including a line of dog treats with Purina and a coffee brand inspired by her song ‘9 to 5’. Parton has been attending events virtually due to her health, including a recent appearance at the Academy of Country Music Awards, Rolling Stone reported. She also missed the opening of a new ride at Dollywood, instead sending a video message to fans wearing sparkling wings.
Despite her ongoing health concerns, she remains active in her work and continues to reassure fans that she is improving.
IMAGE: Dolly Parton and Bob Corker at the rededication ceremony for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Photo: United States Congress / Wikimedia, taken 2009-09-02, Public domain