Dolly Parton dies at 80: Country music icon's life in photos

Parton became a beloved icon whose appeal transcended generations, borders and politics

Last updated: August 25, 2026 | 22:41

2 MIN READ

Dolly Parton, left, Lily Tomlin, center, and Jan Fonda arrive for the premiere of their film “9 To 5" in New York on Dec. 14, 1980.

Photos of Dolly Parton's rise from humble Tennessee roots to country music icon, actor, businesswoman and philanthropist. Known for hits including "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You," Parton has died at 80.

US country music legend Dolly Parton dies at 80: family

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Dolly Parton appears at Dollywood’s Season Passholder and Media Day in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., March 8, 2024.

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Dolly Parton appears at Dollywood’s Season Passholder and Media Day in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., March 8, 2024.

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Dolly Parton, left, and Burt Reynolds appear at the premier of their film “The Best little Whorehouse in Texas” in Austin, on July 12, 1982.

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Dolly Parton reads her book “Coat of Many Colors,” at the Library of Congress in Washington on Feb. 27, 2018.

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Singer and Actress Dolly Parton shown at a party following the premiere of her movie ‘Nine to Five’ in Los Angeles, Dec. 12, 1980.

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Dolly Parton, left, and Kenny Rogers rehearse a song for their appearance on the TV show “Live... And in Person” in Los Angeles on Sept. 27, 1983.

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Dolly Parton, center, stands on stage with Lily Tomlin, left, and Jane Fonda at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, Sept. 17, 2017.

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Dolly Parton, center, stands with other 2006 Kennedy Center honorees being celebrated for their contributions to American culture at the State Department in Washington, Dec. 2, 2006. From left are Zubin Mehta, Stephen Spielberg, Dolly Parton, Smokey Robinson, and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

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