Dolly Parton posted an Instagram reel on May 4 with a health update, saying she had “some good news, and a little bad news.” The 80-year-old star said the good news is she’s “responding really well to meds and treatments” and is improving every day.
Parton didn’t name a specific diagnosis but referenced long-standing kidney stone problems and joked about how often stones are removed. She said her immune and digestive systems “got all out of whack over the past three years,” and her medical team is working to rebuild and strengthen them.
The “little bad news” is that side effects from some medications and treatments—making her “a little bit swimmy-headed”—forced her to cancel previously postponed Las Vegas shows. She apologized to fans, quipping that she can’t be dizzy carrying banjos and guitars while wearing five-inch heels. Parton first announced postponements about eight months earlier, citing health challenges that required procedures.
Despite the setbacks, she said her doctors told her everything is treatable and that it will take time before she’s ready for full stage performances. She remains active professionally—making videos, recording, visiting Dollywood occasionally, and continuing work on projects she described as important.
Parton said she’s working to open her Nashville museum and hotel later this year and is writing and reworking the upcoming Broadway show Dolly: A True Original Musical, aiming for a fall or early winter 2026 opening.
She also thanked fans for their support after the March 3, 2025, death of her husband, Carl Dean, at 82, saying their concern “was a big part of my healing.” Parton concluded that she still has healing to do but is on her way and remains optimistic about the future.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
