Country music icon Dolly Parton, who died at 80 in Nashville on Tuesday, was hospitalized days before her death, though her family has not released an official cause.
Parton’s representatives confirmed she passed away peacefully in her home state of Tennessee, concluding a seven-decade career that established her as one of America’s most recognizable entertainers. Her death generated widespread tributes from fellow musicians, public figures and fans across generations.
Health Issues Before Death
Parton was admitted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center on Friday, August 21, according to PEOPLE magazine. TMZ reported, citing sources familiar with the situation, that she received treatment for kidney and autoimmune conditions, though neither has been officially confirmed as contributing to her death.
On the day of her hospitalization, Parton discussed her health struggles in an interview. “As I’ve shared in video messages throughout the past year, I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn’t pay attention to when I was watching over Carl,” she told PEOPLE, referring to her husband Carl Dean.
Parton faced multiple health complications following Carl Dean’s death in March 2025 at age 82. The couple had been married for nearly 60 years.
Earlier this month, Parton could not attend a Dollywood attraction opening after experiencing dizziness and dehydration. She addressed disappointed attendees through a prerecorded video, stating her doctor had advised against travel during recovery.
Career and Legacy
Born in Tennessee in 1946 as one of 12 children, Parton rose from poverty in the Great Smoky Mountains to achieve global entertainment prominence. Her music catalog included “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You.”
Beyond recording, Parton worked as an actress, businesswoman and philanthropist with cross-generational reach. She founded the Imagination Library in 1995, a literacy program that has distributed hundreds of millions of free books to children worldwide.
Despite her recent health setbacks, Parton remained focused on her work. “Even though I’m still healin’, I’m still workin’!” she said in one of her final public statements, noting she had multiple projects to complete.
Parton’s family announced plans for a small private service for immediate relatives. Her official cause of death remains undisclosed.