Dolly Parton says her immune and digestive systems ‘got all out of whack,’ creating health concerns

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Dolly Parton revealed on Monday that she’s been dealing with health problems related to her immune and digestive systems, and as a result, she’s canceled her planned concert series in Las Vegas.

The iconic singer shared a health update with her fans in a video posted on Monday. After sparking concern late last year, she explained she’s been getting treatment and is happy to report she’s responding well to medication and improving daily. She described this as ‘good news’.

Dolly Parton announced she’s continuing to take a break from live performances. She explained that her medications and treatments cause dizziness, and she wants to ensure her shows are top-notch, maintaining the full Dolly Parton experience – including her costumes, heels, and vibrant stage presence. She specifically mentioned wanting to deliver the full spectacle fans expect, referencing her signature look and personality.

Dolly Parton worried her fans last fall when she canceled several appearances and shows. It started in late September when she missed an event at her Dollywood theme park because of kidney stones. She then canceled multiple concerts in Las Vegas, citing health issues. Her sister, Freida, added to the concern by posting on Facebook that she had been praying for Dolly all night and asked fans to join her in prayer.

Music

Dolly Parton recently responded to worries about her health with a playful video on social media, asking, ‘Do I look sick?’ She assured fans she’s been keeping busy and working hard.

Dolly Parton recently shared with her fans that the loss of her husband, Carl Dean, who passed away in March 2025 at age 82, had affected her health. After finally visiting her doctors, they advised her to address some health concerns. While she reassured everyone it wasn’t anything serious, she announced she would be cancelling some upcoming events to focus on receiving treatment.

“I’m not ready to die yet,” Parton said in that October video.

In a video released on Monday, Dolly Parton described herself as a vintage car that can be even better after a restoration. She explained that her health issues are like car parts needing repair or maintenance, joking that she definitely needs new ‘spark plugs’ to keep her energy and spirit alive.

The singer, who has dealt with kidney stones in the past, recently explained the source of her pain.

She explained that her immune and digestive systems haven’t been working well for the last few years. Doctors are currently focused on helping her regain strength in those areas, and she’s hopeful she’ll soon be feeling better.

Entertainment & Arts

Dolly Parton recently opened up about her nearly 60-year marriage to Carl Dean during an interview on Khloé Kardashian’s podcast, ‘Khloé in Wonder Land’.

Dolly Parton canceled her Las Vegas shows, but announced she’s busy with several other projects. These include her Dollywood theme park, a new museum and hotel in Nashville opening this year, and a Broadway musical called “Dolly: A True Original Musical” planned for New York this fall or winter.

Towards the end of her video, Dolly Parton opened up about grieving the loss of her husband. She explained that she’s experienced many difficult ‘firsts’ since he passed away, including holidays, their wedding anniversary, and the anniversary of his death, which she found particularly challenging.

She shared that she would always cherish her love for him and deeply miss him. She also expressed gratitude to her fans, saying their support during that difficult time meant more than they might realize.

“You have been a big part of my healing.”

Throughout the video, Dolly Parton balanced her upbeat personality and humor with more serious discussions about her health and loss. She maintained this approach until the very end, recalling a conversation with her husband, Dean, about the benefits of plastic surgery. When he pointed out she wasn’t getting any younger, she playfully responded, “Well honey, as long as there are plastic surgeons around, I’m not getting any older!”

Turning to a more serious note, Dolly Parton explained that while cosmetic surgery can address appearances, issues with internal health are much more significant. She ended her video by sharing that she has excellent doctors who have told her all of her health concerns are manageable.

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2026-05-05 00:02