Dolly Parton Opens Up About Health Issues, Pauses Career Milestones Amid Personal Loss
September 29, 2025 — In a heartfelt message to fans, country music legend Dolly Parton revealed that she is stepping back from public performances due to ongoing health complications. The 79-year-old icon, who has inspired generations through music, philanthropy, and personal strength, posted the update to Instagram, expressing both candor and characteristic charm.
“As many of you know, I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures,” Parton shared. Though she didn’t go into detail about her condition, her message came with another announcement — the postponement of her highly anticipated Las Vegas residency.
“I am not going to be able to rehearse and put together the show that I want you to see me perform,” she said. “And I want to be at my best for you.”
Parton’s health setbacks have recently kept her from several public events. Earlier in September, she missed a scheduled appearance at Dollywood, her amusement park in Tennessee, citing travel restrictions from doctors after suffering from a kidney stone. Fans at the park were shown a video message in which the singer apologized for her absence and thanked them for their continued support.
In a more bittersweet turn, Parton also confirmed she would be unable to attend the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences ceremony, where she was set to receive the prestigious Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. The award is given to individuals whose humanitarian efforts have brought credit to the film industry, and few could be more deserving than Parton, known for decades of charitable work in education, disaster relief, and health care.
2025 has brought more than physical hardship for the beloved artist. In March, she endured the loss of her husband of six decades — a private but monumental loss that has cast a shadow over her typically joyful persona.
Despite it all, Dolly continues to lean on her indomitable spirit. In true Dolly fashion, her announcement still included a dose of humor: “It must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up, although it’s not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeons!”
With grace, grit, and that ever-present sparkle, Dolly assured fans she’s not going anywhere. “And don’t worry about me quittin’ the business,” she wrote. “God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet.”
Her fans around the world are rallying with love and support, hoping to see the country queen back on stage when she’s ready — stronger than ever.
