American country music icon and global superstar Dolly Parton has passed away at the age of 80.
Her death was announced in an Instagram video by her nephew and head of security Bryan Seaver.
“Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus,” he said.
“This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago before I fully absorbed it as a future reality”.
“I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now.
“It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly.”
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Parton had been dealing with undisclosed health challenges over the past year, which forced her to cancel a planned Las Vegas residency.
Dolly became one of the most beloved and recognisable figures in entertainment history, earning 11 Grammy Awards and leaving behind a legacy of timeless hits like Jolene, I Will Always Love You, and 9 to 5.
But beyond her music, Parton will be remembered for her massive philanthropic efforts, including her Imagination Library literacy program, her Dollywood theme park, and her generosity.
