Dolly Parton Addresses Health Concerns, Vows to Keep “Getting Started”
Country music icon Dolly Parton has reassured her devoted fans that she is managing a few “little health issues” and is taking good care of herself. The beloved singer made these comments during a public appearance at her Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, on Friday, March 13th. This appearance comes just two months after she was unable to attend her 80th birthday celebration at the Grand Ole Opry, citing ongoing “health challenges.”
Dolly Parton
Parton, known for her enduring optimism and vibrant spirit, candidly shared that the past year has been particularly challenging, not only due to her health but also the profound grief she has experienced following the passing of her husband, Carl Dean, last year. She explained to attendees that she had “just kind of got worn down and worn out, grieving over Carl,” in addition to dealing with “a lot of other little things going on.”
During her appearance, Parton was joined on stage by Eugene Naughton, the president of The Dollywood Company. With her characteristic wit, she playfully quipped that some might have mistaken Naughton for her “new husband,” before clarifying with a smile that she is “not dating anybody.”
“I Feel Like I’m Just Getting Started”
Despite navigating recent health complications, which have reportedly included a kidney infection and “a few procedures,” the Grammy-winning artist, who celebrated her 80th birthday on January 19th, appeared radiant. Dressed in an embellished, corseted gown and sporting her signature glamorous blonde updo, Parton exuded confidence and vitality.
Speaking to People magazine in November 2025, Parton expressed her determination not to let age or health setbacks define her. She firmly believes that age is merely a number and that her spirit of adventure and creativity remains undimmed.
“I Ain’t Got Time to Get Old!”
“People say, ‘Well, you’re going to be 80 years old.’ Well, so what?” Parton mused. “Look at all I’ve done in 80 years. I feel like I’m just getting started.” This sentiment underscores her relentless drive and her perception that her life’s work is far from over.
She further elaborated on her philosophy regarding aging: “I know that sounds stupid, but unless my health gives way, which right now I seem to be doing fine… I think there’s a lot to be said about age. If you allow yourself to get old, you will. I say, ‘I ain’t got time to get old!’ I ain’t got time to dwell on that. That’s not what I’m thinking about.” This declaration highlights her proactive approach to life and her refusal to be limited by the passage of time.
Dolly Parton with her late husband, Carl Dean.
A Sister’s Concern and Clarification
Earlier in the year, concerns about Parton’s well-being were amplified when her sister, Freida Parton, 68, posted on Facebook in October 2025, requesting prayers for Dolly. This request came in the wake of several concert cancellations, leading some fans to worry about the severity of her health issues.
Dolly Parton at Dollywood.
Freida later clarified her intentions in a subsequent post, expressing that she “didn’t mean to scare anyone or make it sound so serious.” She explained that Dolly had simply been “a little under the weather,” aiming to alleviate any undue alarm among the public.
Dolly Parton’s positive outlook on life.
Parton’s continued public engagement and her own words serve as a powerful testament to her resilience and her unwavering commitment to her music and her fans. While acknowledging her health challenges, she remains focused on the future, proving that for Dolly Parton, the best is truly yet to come.
Dolly Parton’s sister, Freida Parton.
