Country artist Jelly Roll offered a moving on-air remembrance of Dolly Parton while guest-hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live on Tuesday night.
Dolly Parton, the iconic singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist, passed away Tuesday at age 80 following a short battle with cancer, according to a statement from her representatives. The announcement described her as a beloved figure whose influence stretched across music, entertainment, and community work.
Jelly Roll, who shares Tennessee roots with Dolly Parton, spoke directly about the loss. He recalled growing up listening to her songs around the family kitchen table. He credited her with teaching him important lessons about songwriting, working through the music industry, and giving back to one’s community. He extended special thoughts to East Tennessee and Sevier County, the area long associated with Dolly Parton.
“She was infinitely talented. She was relentlessly funny, and adored by all,” Jelly Roll said. “She might be the last American that everyone liked. We will miss her dearly. Rest in peace, Dolly. We will always love you.”
Jelly Roll’s comments join a wider wave of remembrances for the artist whose career and personality left a lasting mark on American culture. Other aritists like Sabrina Carpenter also shared Dolly Partons lastng impact not only on herself but the entire music industry as she shared a series of behind-the-scenes photos from their music video shoot, Carpenter wrote that her first impression of Parton was simply, “She really is an angel walking the earth.” She also playfully noted that the pair looked like they could be sisters.
The official family statement noted that Parton is preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Carl Thomas Dean (1942–2025), her mother Avie Lee Caroline Owens, and her father Robert Lee Parton Sr. A small private service for immediate family will be held at her request. Fans are invited to share tributes on social media using @DollyParton or by leaving messages at dollyparton.com. In place of flowers, the family asks that donations be directed to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
