Dolly Parton, the iconic country music legend, will not attend her own 80th birthday celebration due to ongoing health concerns. The Grand Ole Opry, located in Nashville, will host its annual Opry Goes Dolly event on January 17, 2024, featuring performances from artists including Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, and Rhonda Vincent. Despite the star-studded lineup, Parton confirmed her absence in a heartfelt video message shared by the venue.
In the video, Parton addressed her fans, saying, “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 reminisced about her cherished memories at the Grand Ole Opry and expressed her regret for not being able to attend. “I wish I could be there in person, but I’ll be sending you all my love, for sure,” she added.
The event is set to celebrate Parton’s milestone birthday just two days before she turns 80. Ticket prices range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, reflecting the high demand for this unique experience. The Grand Ole Opry teased fans with a caption, inviting them 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 skip the celebration follows months of speculation regarding her health. In October, she postponed her first Las Vegas residency in over three decades, citing “health challenges.” In a social media post, she stated, “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 the best performance possible, stating, “You pay good money to see me perform, and I want to be at my best for you.”
The public’s concern for Parton’s well-being heightened after her sister, Frieda Parton, urged followers to pray for her sister’s recovery. “Many of you know she hasn’t been feeling her best lately,” Frieda wrote in a post, encouraging fans to become “prayer warriors.”
In response to the growing concerns, Parton took to social media to reassure her fans. “I know lately everybody thinks that I am sicker than I am,” she quipped, adding, “Do I look sick to you? I’m working hard here!” She acknowledged some health issues stemming from neglecting her well-being while caring for her late husband, Carl Dean, who passed away in March at the age of 82. “I let a lot of things go that I should have been taking care of,” she explained, clarifying, “I wanted you to know that I’m not dying.”
As she approaches this significant birthday, Parton remains optimistic about the future. In an interview with People, she reflected on her life, stating, “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 goddaughter, Miley Cyrus, echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence in Parton’s enduring legacy and work ethic. “She’s always gonna keep the show going. The show must go on,” Cyrus told Entertainment Tonight.
Dolly Parton continues to inspire countless fans around the world, and while her absence at the Opry will be felt, her spirit and contributions to music remain as vibrant as ever. As her birthday approaches, fans will celebrate her incredible journey and look forward to her return to the stage.
