Dolly Parton addresses health worries ahead of 80th birthday after canceling Vegas shows

As Dolly Parton approaches her 80th birthday, she’s reassuring fans that she’s doing well and doesn’t intend to retire or cut back on her work anytime soon. The country music icon remains as energetic and dedicated as ever.

The Grammy-winning artist celebrated her 80th birthday on Monday and recently told People magazine she doesn’t worry about her age, feeling excited and full of energy for the future.

Dolly Parton responded to comments about her age, saying, ‘So what if I’m turning 80? Look at everything I’ve accomplished!’ She added that she feels like her life is just beginning.

Although her health is the most important thing, the singer said she’s feeling good right now and wanted to reassure her fans.

‘I know that sounds stupid, but unless my health gives way, which right now I seem to be doing fine,’ she added.

Earlier this month, Dolly Parton worried fans about her health when she announced she wouldn’t be able to attend the Grand Ole Opry’s 80th anniversary celebration.

Over the past few months, there have been worried whispers about Dolly Parton’s health. This increased after her sister, Freida, publicly asked for prayers in October, revealing Dolly was dealing with an undisclosed illness.

Okay, so there was a little buzz online about me, and honestly, it was a bit much! People were getting worried, so I quickly set the record straight with a fun little video from a photoshoot. I just wanted everyone to know – I’m doing great, and definitely not going anywhere! As I said in the video, ‘I ain’t dead yet!’ It’s all about keeping a positive attitude and showing everyone I’m still full of life.

It absolutely broke my heart when I heard about Celine! She’s my idol, and I was SO excited for her Vegas shows. Sadly, she’s been dealing with some really serious health issues, and she had to put everything on hold – the residency, appearances, everything – towards the end of last year. It’s just devastating, but I’m sending her all my love and hoping she focuses on getting better.

After she said she couldn’t attend the concert honoring her at the Grand Ole Opry, many people wondered if she was ill.

A spokesperson for Dolly Parton clarified to the Daily Mail that she wasn’t scheduled to appear at the event and never intended to be there, so she isn’t cancelling any plans. She was never going to attend in the first place.

The spokesperson mentioned that the Grand Ole Opry has hosted a yearly birthday concert for Dolly Parton for the past four years, but she’s only been able to attend the very first one.

Earlier this month, Dolly Parton made a video for the Grand Ole Opry’s Instagram to talk about an upcoming concert, and explained that she wouldn’t be able to attend it herself.

Hi everyone at the Grand Ole Opry! I just wanted to express how happy I am that you’re all gathering again this year to celebrate my birthday with a performance of my music.

Dolly Parton shared that some of her happiest moments happened on the Grand Ole Opry stage, and while she couldn’t be there in person, she sent her love and wished everyone a wonderful night.

The concert, which took place on January 17th – two days before her birthday – showcased performances by stars like Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, and Rhonda Wilson.

Dolly Parton first revealed she was facing health problems in September, explaining that it would delay her planned Las Vegas residency. Originally scheduled for December, the shows have now been moved to September 2026.

In early October, Dolly Parton’s sister, Freida, worried fans by asking for prayers for the country singer.

On October 7th, Frieda shared on Facebook that she spent the entire night praying for her sister, Dolly, who hasn’t been doing well recently. Frieda expressed her strong belief in prayer and asked Dolly’s supporters to join her in praying for her recovery.

As people became increasingly worried, Freida tried to downplay the situation, telling the public her sister was simply feeling unwell. She explained she hadn’t meant to suggest anything serious and had only asked for prayers because she believed in their positive effect.

Dolly Parton shared a video of herself getting ready for a Grand Ole Opry commercial to reassure her fans after recent concerns.

Honestly, she was so upbeat when she asked if she looked sick! She then sweetly said she really appreciates everyone’s prayers – because she’s a woman of faith and always welcomes them – but she wanted to reassure us that she’s doing alright, really! It was such a relief to hear her say that.

Dolly Parton has been dealing with kidney stones, following the death of her husband, Carl Dean, who passed away in March after 59 years of marriage at the age of 82.

Read More

2026-01-19 22:37