Dolly Parton, the iconic country music star, will not attend her own 80th birthday celebration at the Grand Ole Opry due to health concerns. The event, titled “Opry Goes Dolly,” is scheduled for January 17, 2024, just two days before her milestone birthday. In a heartfelt video shared by the venue, Parton expressed her gratitude for the celebration but confirmed her absence.
In the video, she addressed her fans saying, “Well, hey there, Grand Ole Opry family. I just wanted to say how much it means to me that you’re all coming together again this year to celebrate my big ol’ birthday with some of my songs.” She added, “I wish I could be there in person, but I’ll be sending you all my love, for sure.” Despite her absence, the event will feature performances from artists such as Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, Rhonda Vincent, and Trannie Anderson.
Ticket prices for the star-studded event range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, reflecting the high demand for a tribute to the beloved artist. The Grand Ole Opry encouraged fans to “grab your tickets to Opry Goes Dolly and get ready to throw it back to when the hair was bigger, the clothes were brighter, and ‘9 to 5’ hit the silver screen.”
Parton’s decision to miss the celebration follows mounting public concern regarding her health. In October 2023, she postponed her first Las Vegas residency in over three decades, citing “health challenges.” In a candid social media post, she stated, “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.” She emphasized her commitment to delivering high-quality performances, adding, “You pay good money to see me perform, and I want to be at my best for you.”
The health concerns surrounding Parton intensified when her younger sister, Frieda Parton, publicly requested prayers for her later that month. In her post, Frieda noted, “Many of you know she hasn’t been feeling her best lately. I truly believe in the power of prayer.” The next day, Parton reassured her fans in a follow-up video. “I know lately everybody thinks that I am sicker than I am,” she said with her characteristic humor, “Do I look sick to you? I’m working hard here!”
While acknowledging the health issues she has faced, Parton clarified that she is recovering. She explained that her problems stemmed from neglecting her own health while caring for her late husband, Carl Dean, who passed away in March at the age of 82. Reflecting on her situation, she stated, “I let a lot of things go that I should have been taking care of. I wanted you to know that I’m not dying.”
As she approaches this significant milestone, Parton remains optimistic about her future. In a November interview with People, she remarked, “People say, ‘Well, you’re going to be 80 years old.’ Well, so what? Look at all I’ve done in 80 years. I feel like I’m just getting started.” Her enthusiasm is echoed by her goddaughter, Miley Cyrus, who told Entertainment Tonight, “She’s always gonna keep the show going. The show must go on. She’s just excited to get back to work.”
Dolly Parton’s enduring spirit and commitment to her fans continue to shine brightly, even in the face of personal challenges. As fans prepare to celebrate her legacy at the Grand Ole Opry, her influence on country music remains undeniable.
