Dolly Parton’s Health Message Was Meant to Reassure Fans—So Why Did It Leave Her Loved Ones in Tears? ML
Sources close to the music legend reveal she’s struggling to rest — and working nonstop despite doctors’ advice.
Country music legend Dolly Parton has delayed her highly anticipated Las Vegas residency, but according to insiders, rest is proving harder than expected for the 79-year-old star.
In September, Dolly announced on social media that she would postpone her Caesars Palace residency after doctors advised her to undergo “a few procedures.” She reassured fans with humor, joking, “It must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up!”
The announcement initially caused concern among fans, which grew after Dolly’s sister, Frieda, requested prayers for her recovery. Her management team later confirmed she was being treated for kidney stones — nothing life-threatening.
However, a source tells heat that Dolly’s struggle isn’t physical, but emotional. “She just can’t sit still,” the insider says. “Even while recovering, she’s working from home in Nashville — calling her staff, making business decisions, and checking every little detail.”
Friends say Dolly’s tireless pace has her inner circle worried. “Her team is trying to protect her by lightening her workload, but Dolly won’t let go,” the source continues. “She’s still hands-on with Dollywood, her fashion and cookware lines, even down to approving menus.”
Dolly’s drive has long been legendary — but it’s come at a cost. In the 1980s, she collapsed on stage due to endometriosis, later undergoing a partial hysterectomy. More recently, in 2015, she returned to work just weeks after kidney surgery.
Loved ones now fear her determination may be masking deeper pain. Following the death of her husband, Carl Dean, earlier this year, insiders believe her nonstop work is a coping mechanism. “She’s still grieving,” one close friend shares. “Working helps her avoid the loneliness, but it’s taking a toll.”
Despite warnings, Dolly remains defiant. “She says she’d rather go out with her boots on,” says the source. “She’s been working her whole life — and doesn’t know any other way.”
