Country music legend Dolly Parton died at age 80 in Nashville on Tuesday, four days after a hospitalization at Vanderbilt University Medical Center for kidney and autoimmune issues, though her family has not disclosed an official cause of death.
Parton’s representatives confirmed she passed away peacefully in Nashville, concluding a seven-decade career that made her one of America’s most recognizable entertainers. Her family and team have not publicly identified a specific medical condition responsible for her death.
The Hospitalization
Parton was admitted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center on Friday, August 21, according to PEOPLE magazine. Sources told TMZ that she was being treated for kidney and autoimmune issues, though neither has been officially confirmed as contributing to her death.
Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will. In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the… pic.twitter.com/WICghhk73d
— Commentary Donald J. Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) August 25, 2026
The admission occurred the same day Parton discussed health problems she had managed over the previous year while caring for her husband. “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 late husband Carl Dean.
Recent Health Challenges
Dean, Parton’s husband of nearly 60 years, died in March 2025 at age 82. Parton experienced several medical setbacks following his death and revealed that doctors recommended multiple procedures.
President Trump on lowering the flags to honor Dolly Parton after her passing:
"She was unique. She was amazing. To lose her is like losing a member of a family." pic.twitter.com/GlSlbH4q6V
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) August 26, 2026
She postponed scheduled appearances to focus on recovery and missed the opening of a new Dollywood attraction due to dizziness and dehydration. “Even though I’m still healin’, I’m still workin’!” Parton said in what became one of her final public statements.
Legacy and Impact
Born in Tennessee in 1946 as one of 12 children, Parton rose from poverty in the Great Smoky Mountains to become one of history’s most successful entertainers. Her music catalog includes “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You.”
Beyond music, Parton built a successful career as an actress, businesswoman and philanthropist. She founded the Imagination Library in 1995, a literacy program that has distributed hundreds of millions of free books to children worldwide.
Her family announced a small private service for immediate relatives. This story has been updated. CNN’s Entertainment team contributed to this report.