Country music icon Dolly Parton has given an update on her health during a public appearance at the Dollywood theme park, assuring fans that she is taking good care of herself.
The 80-year-old artist spoke on the opening day of the new season of the Tennessee park, which this year marks its 41st season since opening. In her speech, she revealed that she has recently had some health concerns and has therefore reduced activities.
"As you know, I haven't been on tour. I've had some minor health issues and we're taking good care of them," she said.
Parton admitted that the recent period has also been emotionally difficult following the death of her husband of many years, Carl Thomas Dean, who passed away on March 3, 2025 at the age of 82. The couple had been married for 58 years.
“I was so tired and exhausted from the pain of Carl and all the other things that were going on,” she said. “It took me a while to get myself together spiritually, emotionally and physically. But now everything is fine.”
During her speech, the singer also joked with the audience, telling fans not to confuse Dollywood president Eugene Naughton with her “new husband.” She added that she has not been in a new relationship since Dean’s death.
"I think Carl is waiting for me. If I showed up at the gates of heaven with someone else, he wouldn't like it at all," she said humorously.
Dean was known for his low-key lifestyle, despite his wife's fame. He rarely attended public events with her, and Parton has released very few photos of him over the years.
The statement comes months after speculation about her health spread on social media in October 2025, after her sister, Freida Parton, asked for prayers for her on Facebook. The post caused alarm among fans and even fueled rumors that the singer was in very serious condition. Parton herself later responded with humor in a video on Instagram, saying: "I'm not dead yet!"
According to sources close to her, the artist's condition is improving every day. In the meantime, she continues to stay at home, surrounded by family and friends, and has recently published her autobiographical book "Star of the Show: My Life on Stage".
