Dolly Parton puts rumors to rest with a heartfelt "proof of life" video: "I'm far from dying!" The beloved country music icon, who turns 80 soon, took to social media this Wednesday to directly address swirling concerns over her health. "Lately, it seems like everyone thinks I’m a lot sicker than I really am," she said with a smile. "Do I look sick to you? I'm still working hard every day! I just wanted to reassure all my fans and friends that I’m doing okay."
The country legend went on to thank everyone for their prayers, emphasizing, "I truly appreciate all your good thoughts and prayers—I want you to know I’m alright." She openly shared some context about her recent health issues, explaining that after her late husband's illness and passing, she neglected her own well-being. "I let things slide that I should have taken care of," she admitted candidly. Once she got medical advice, she needed to address a few health matters. "Nothing serious, but enough to make me cancel some commitments so I could stay closer to home and Vanderbilt Medical Center where I’m receiving treatment," she explained.
In a moment of levity to ease worries, Dolly joked about a bizarre AI-generated image she'd seen of fellow star Reba McEntire supposedly at her deathbed, laughing, "We both looked like we were ready for the grave! Oh my goodness." She stressed that so many rumors have been flying around, and if fans heard the truth from her directly, they wouldn't worry. "I’m definitely not ready to leave this world," she declared. "And I don’t believe God has finished with me yet—I’ve still got plenty of music and work left in me."
To prove just how active she really is, she mentioned that this very video was filmed during breaks while shooting promotional material for the Grand Ol’ Opry.
The concern about Dolly’s health intensified recently after her sister Freida shared a Facebook post requesting prayers, saying she’d spent a night praying for Dolly and that many knew Dolly hadn’t been feeling well. Freida called on everyone who loves Dolly to become “prayer warriors” alongside her. However, she later apologized for causing unnecessary alarm, assuring fans she never intended to make the situation sound more severe than it is. Dolly’s representative also clarified to the Las Vegas Review-Journal that while Dolly is indeed fine, she is awaiting a procedure to remove kidney stones.
This news comes on the heels of Dolly postponing a planned Las Vegas residency last month due to "some health challenges." Those shows have since been rescheduled for September 2026, much to fans’ relief.
In Dolly's own words on Twitter, she declared humorously and firmly, "I ain’t dead yet!" proving that despite the whispers and worries, she remains vibrant and engaged with her work and fans. But here’s where it gets controversial—why do celebrity health rumors spread so quickly, often causing unnecessary panic? Do you think public figures owe their fans constant updates on personal health, or should privacy come first? Share your thoughts below!
