Dolly Parton Addresses Health Rumors and Confirms She’s Not Retiring
Country music icon Dolly Parton has reassured fans that she remains strong and determined despite recent health challenges and growing concern sparked by her sister’s public call for prayers.
The 79-year-old legend posted a video update on X this Wednesday, saying, “I know lately, everybody thinks that I am sicker than I am. Do I look sick to you? I’m working hard here!”
Her message comes shortly after she postponed her highly anticipated Las Vegas residency — her first in over three decades. “As many of you know, I’ve been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures,” she explained. “As I joked with them, it must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up — although it’s not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon!”
Throughout her career, Parton has been private about her personal health, but she’s previously opened up about serious medical conditions. In 1982, she was diagnosed with endometriosis and underwent a partial hysterectomy in 1985 at the age of 36, which left her unable to have children.
The surgery and its emotional aftermath led Parton into a deep depression, including thoughts of suicide. In a 2019 podcast, she recalled how a sudden appearance from her dog Popeye stopped her at a critical moment. “God is dog spelled backwards, and I always thought that might have been the very thing.”
This year has been especially difficult for Parton, following the death of her husband of nearly 59 years, Carl Dean, in March. In recent interviews, she described the pain of his loss and admitted that she hasn’t been able to write since.
Beyond emotional struggles, Parton has also endured physical setbacks. In 2008, she postponed a tour due to a slipped disk in her back. In September, she missed an appearance at Dollywood after suffering from a kidney stone and resulting infection.
Despite speculation surrounding her current condition, Parton’s rep Olly Rowland confirmed it’s just related to kidney stones and a minor procedure. “It got quite a bit blown out of proportion,” he told the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Still, Parton remains optimistic and determined. “Don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet,” she told fans. “But I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you. I love you and thank you for understanding.”
