History of Dolly Parton in Timeline
Dolly Parton is a celebrated American singer, songwriter, musician, actress, and philanthropist. Primarily known for her contributions to country music, she launched her solo career in 1967 with the album 'Hello, I'm Dolly'. Her career has spanned six decades and includes 49 studio albums. Notably, her 2023 album, 'Rockstar', achieved significant success, reaching number three on the Billboard 200 chart.
1921: Robert Lee Parton Sr.'s Birth
In 1921, Robert Lee Parton Sr., Dolly Parton's father, was born.
1923: Avie Lee Caroline's Birth
In 1923, Avie Lee Caroline (née Owens), Dolly Parton's mother, was born.
1942: Birth of Brother David Wilburn
In 1942, Dolly Parton's brother, David Wilburn, was born.
January 19, 1946: Dolly Parton's Birth
Dolly Rebecca Parton was born on January 19, 1946, in a one-room cabin in Pittman Center, Tennessee.
1953: Birth of Brother Randle Huston
In 1953, Dolly Parton's brother, Randle Huston (Randy), was born.
1955: Birth of Brother Larry Gerald
In 1955, Dolly Parton's brother, Larry Gerald, was born.
1957: Birth of Brother Floyd Estel
In 1957, Dolly Parton's brother, Floyd Estel, was born.
1962: The Beverly Hillbillies TV sitcom
From 1962 to 1971, The Beverly Hillbillies was on TV.
1964: Graduation and Move to Nashville
In 1964, Dolly Parton graduated from Sevier County High School and moved to Nashville the next day to pursue her music career.
1965: Signing with Monument Records
In 1965, at the age of 19, Dolly Parton signed with Monument Records and was initially pitched as a bubblegum pop singer.
May 30, 1966: Marriage to Carl Thomas Dean
On May 30, 1966, Dolly Parton and Carl Thomas Dean were married in Ringgold, Georgia.
1966: "Put It Off Until Tomorrow" Success
In 1966, "Put It Off Until Tomorrow", recorded by Bill Phillips featuring Dolly Parton, reached number six on the country chart.
1966: Charting Singles with Bill Owens
In 1966, Dolly Parton, with her songwriting partner Bill Owens, wrote several charting singles including "Put It Off Until Tomorrow" and "The Company You Keep" for Bill Phillips.
1967: Release of Debut Album
In 1967, Dolly Parton's debut album, Hello, I'm Dolly, was released, marking the beginning of her successful career.
1967: First Country Single and Album Release
In 1967, Dolly Parton's first country single, "Dumb Blonde", reached number 24 on the country chart, followed by "Something Fishy", and the two songs appeared on her first full-length album, Hello, I'm Dolly.
1967: Joining The Porter Wagoner Show
In 1967, Porter Wagoner invited Dolly Parton to join his organization, offering her a spot on The Porter Wagoner Show and in his road show.
1967: Skeeter Davis's Hit
In 1967, Skeeter Davis had a hit with "Fuel to the Flame", co-written by Dolly Parton and Bill Owens, reaching number 11.
January 1968: Top 10 Hit with Porter Wagoner
In January 1968, Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner's remake of Tom Paxton's "The Last Thing on My Mind" reached the country Top 10, beginning a six-year streak of Top 10 singles for the pair.
1968: Original Release of "Just Because I'm a Woman"
In 1968, Dolly Parton originally released "Just Because I'm a Woman" as the title song for her first RCA album. She later re-recorded the song for the 2003 tribute album.
1968: Release of "Just Because I'm a Woman" and Vocal Group of the Year Award
In 1968, Dolly Parton released her first solo single for RCA Victor, "Just Because I'm a Woman", and the duo with Wagoner was named Vocal Group of the Year by the Country Music Association.
1969: Wagoner's Financial Stake
By 1969, Porter Wagoner had a significant financial stake in Dolly Parton's future, co-producing her records and owning nearly half of Owe-Par, the publishing company Parton founded with Bill Owens.
1969: Induction into the Grand Ole Opry
In 1969, Dolly Parton was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry.
1970: Recording Mule Skinner Blues
In 1970, Porter Wagoner persuaded Dolly Parton to record Jimmie Rodgers' "Mule Skinner Blues", which became a successful gimmick.
February 1971: First Number-One Single with Joshua
In February 1971, Dolly Parton achieved her first number-one single with "Joshua".
1971: The Beverly Hillbillies TV sitcom ended
From 1962 to 1971, The Beverly Hillbillies was on TV.
1971: Release of "Here I Am" Song
The biographical documentary, Here I Am, a co-production of Netflix and the BBC, takes its name from Dolly Parton's 1971 song.
1972: Release of Touch Your Woman
In 1972, Dolly Parton released "Touch Your Woman" as a solo single, continuing her chart success.
1973: Solo Hits and Duets
In 1973, Dolly Parton had numerous solo hits, including "My Tennessee Mountain Home" and "Travelin' Man", as well as duets with Porter Wagoner.
February 1974: Jolene Tops the Charts
In February 1974, the song "Jolene" by Dolly Parton, topped the country chart.
April 1974: Last Duet Concert with Porter Wagoner
In April 1974, Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner performed their last duet concert, marking Parton's departure from Wagoner's organization.
1974: Series of Country Hits
Between 1974 and 1980, Dolly Parton had a series of country hits, with eight singles reaching number one, influencing pop culture.
1974: "I Will Always Love You" tops chart and Elvis request
In 1974, Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You", written about her break from Porter Wagoner, went to number one. Elvis Presley wanted to record it, but Parton refused to sign over half of the publishing rights to Colonel Tom Parker.
1975: The Bargain Store tops chart
In 1975, Dolly Parton again topped the singles chart with "The Bargain Store".
1975: Final Duet Album with Porter Wagoner
In 1975, Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner released their final duet album, Say Forever You'll Be Mine.
1975: Linda Ronstadt covers 'I Will Always Love You'
In 1975, Linda Ronstadt covered "I Will Always Love You" on her album 'Prisoner In Disguise'.
1976: Crossover Campaign Begins
In 1976, Dolly Parton began a crossover campaign to aim her music in a more mainstream direction, working closely with Sandy Gallin as her manager. She also began co-producing her albums with Porter Wagoner, starting with All I Can Do, taking a more active role in production.
1976: Jolene charts in the UK
In 1976, Dolly Parton's "Jolene" charted in the U.K., reaching number seven and representing Parton's first U.K. success.
1976: Debut of Dolly! Variety Show
In 1976, Dolly Parton's first television variety show, Dolly!, premiered.
1977: Barbara Walters Special
In 1977, Dolly Parton had a highly publicized candid interview on a Barbara Walters Special to coincide with Here You Come Again's release.
1977: Release of Here You Come Again
In 1977, Dolly Parton released the album Here You Come Again, produced by Gary Klein, which became her first million-seller and achieved success on both country and pop charts. The title track topped the country charts and became Parton's first Top 10 pop single.
1977: Self-Production and Pop Sensibilities
In 1977, Dolly Parton's first entirely self-produced effort, New Harvest...First Gathering, highlighted her pop sensibilities with covers of "My Girl" and "Higher and Higher."
October 1978: Playboy Cover Appearance
In October 1978, Dolly Parton appeared on the cover of Playboy magazine wearing a Playboy bunny outfit.
1978: Grammy Award and TV Appearances
In 1978, Dolly Parton won a Grammy Award for her album Here You Come Again. She also appeared on Cher's ABC television special and her own special with Carol Burnett on CBS, Dolly & Carol in Nashville.
1978: Country Music Association's Entertainer of the Year
In 1978, Dolly Parton won the Country Music Association's highest honor, Entertainer of the Year.
1979: Chart Success and Television Appearances
In 1979, Dolly Parton continued to have hits with "Baby I'm Burning" and "You're the Only One", and made multiple television appearances.
1979: Emmy nomination for Cher special guest appearance
In 1979, Dolly Parton received an Emmy award nomination as "Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Variety Program" for her guest appearance in a Cher special.
1980: Series of Country Hits
Between 1974 and 1980, Dolly Parton had a series of country hits, with eight singles reaching number one, influencing pop culture.
1980: Inspiration for '9 to 5' beat
In 1980, Dolly Parton derived the beat for her song "9 to 5" from clacking her fingernails together while backstage on the set of the film 9 to 5.
1980: Release of Feature film 9 to 5
In 1980, Dolly Parton released the feature film 9 to 5.
1980: Release of 9 to 5 Film
In 1980, Dolly Parton starred in her first feature film, 9 to 5, alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, playing a secretary. The movie highlighted discrimination against women in the workplace. Parton also wrote and recorded the film's title song.
1981: Top Female Box Office Star
In 1981, Dolly Parton was named Top Female Box Office Star by the Motion Picture Herald due to the success of the film 9 to 5.
1981: Filming The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas
In late 1981, Dolly Parton began filming her second film, the musical film The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.
1982: Recorded Second Version of 'I Will Always Love You'
In 1982, Dolly Parton recorded a second version of "I Will Always Love You" for the film 'The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas'.
1982: Starring in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas
In 1982, Dolly Parton starred in the film The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, earning another Best Actress Golden Globe nomination.
1982: Named Top Female Box Office Star again
In 1982, Dolly Parton was named Top Female Box Office Star again by the Motion Picture Herald due to the success of the film 9 to 5.
1983: Voice Work for Alvin and the Chipmunks
In 1983, Dolly Parton voiced herself in the Alvin and the Chipmunks episode "Urban Chipmunk".
1984: Starring in Rhinestone
In 1984, Dolly Parton starred in the film Rhinestone, continuing her acting career.
1984: Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
In 1984, Dolly Parton was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her music, located at 6712 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California.
1986: Ms. Magazine's Women of the Year & Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction
In 1986, Dolly Parton was named one of Ms. Magazine's Women of the Year and was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.
1986: A Smoky Mountain Christmas
In 1986, Parton starred in the television movie A Smoky Mountain Christmas.
1987: Second self-titled Dolly show
In 1987, Dolly Parton tried a second television variety show, also titled Dolly.
1987: Variety Show Dolly Lasted One Season
In 1987, Dolly Parton's variety show Dolly lasted only one season.
1989: Return to Film Acting in Steel Magnolias
In 1989, Dolly Parton returned to film acting in Steel Magnolias, based on the play of the same name by Robert Harling.
1989: Starring in Steel Magnolias
In 1989, Dolly Parton starred in the film Steel Magnolias, adding to her filmography.
1989: Common Threads: Stories from the Quilt won an Academy Award
In 1989, Sandollar Productions produced the documentary Common Threads: Stories from the Quilt, which won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
1990: Designing Women episode
In 1990, Dolly Parton guest-starred in an episode of Designing Women as herself.
1990: Honorary Doctorate Degree from Carson-Newman College
In 1990, Dolly Parton received an honorary doctorate degree from Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City, Tennessee.
1990: Sandollar Productions Produced Babes
In 1990, Sandollar Productions produced the television series Babes.
1991: Sandollar Productions Produced Father of the Bride
In 1991, Sandollar Productions produced the feature film Father of the Bride.
1992: Starring in Straight Talk
In 1992, Dolly Parton starred in the film Straight Talk, further establishing her presence in the film industry.
1992: Sandollar Productions Produced Straight Talk
In 1992, Sandollar Productions produced the film Straight Talk, in which Dolly Parton starred.
1993: Cameo in The Beverly Hillbillies
In 1993, Dolly Parton made a cameo appearance as herself in The Beverly Hillbillies, an adaptation of the TV sitcom.
1994: Documenting early career challenges in autobiography
In 1994, Dolly Parton documented her early career challenges and experiences, including audience reluctance, in her autobiography.
1994: Voice Work for The Magic School Bus
In 1994, Dolly Parton voiced the character Katrina Eloise "Murph" Murphy in The Magic School Bus episode "The Family Holiday Special".
1995: Sandollar Productions Produced Father of the Bride: Part II and Sabrina
In 1995, Sandollar Productions produced the feature films Father of the Bride: Part II and Sabrina.
1996: Kenny Rogers covers 'I Will Always Love You'
In 1996, Kenny Rogers covered "I Will Always Love You" on his album 'Vote for Love'.
1996: Unlikely Angel
In 1996, Parton starred in the television movie Unlikely Angel, portraying an angel sent back to earth after a deadly car crash.
1997: LeAnn Rimes covers 'I Will Always Love You'
In 1997, LeAnn Rimes covered "I Will Always Love You" on her album 'Unchained Melody: The Early Years'.
1997: Sandollar Productions Produced Buffy the Vampire Slayer
In 1997, Sandollar Productions produced the television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
1998: Ranked Wealthiest Country Music Star
In 1998, Nashville Business ranked Dolly Parton the wealthiest country music star.
1998: Discovery of Asteroid (10731)
In 1998, the asteroid that would later be named (10731) Dollyparton was discovered and given the designation 1998 BL3.
1999: Induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame
In 1999, Dolly Parton received country music's highest honor with her induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
1999: Blue Valley Songbird
In 1999, Parton starred in the television movie Blue Valley Songbird, where her character lives through her music.
1999: The Simpsons
In 1999, she made a guest appearance on The Simpsons (episode "Sunday, Cruddy Sunday").
2000: Appearance on Bette
In 2000, Dolly Parton appeared as herself on the Halloween episode of Bette Midler's short-lived sitcom Bette.
2000: Association of American Publishers Honors Award
In 2000, Dolly Parton received the Association of American Publishers Honors Award for her work in literacy.
2000: Death of Robert Lee Parton Sr.
In 2000, Robert Lee Parton Sr., Dolly Parton's father, passed away.
2001: Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval
In 2001, Dolly Parton received the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval, marking the first time the seal had been awarded to a person, in recognition of her literacy work.
2001: Induction into the National Academy of Popular Music/Songwriters Hall of Fame
In 2001, Dolly Parton was inducted into the National Academy of Popular Music/Songwriters Hall of Fame.
2001: Induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame
In 2001, Dolly Parton was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
2002: Ranked No. 4 in CMT's 40 Greatest Women of Country Music
In 2002, Dolly Parton ranked No. 4 in CMT's 40 Greatest Women of Country Music.
2002: American Association of School Administrators – Galaxy Award & National State Teachers of the Year – Chasing Rainbows Award
In 2002, Dolly Parton was honored with two awards for her literacy work: the American Association of School Administrators – Galaxy Award and the National State Teachers of the Year – Chasing Rainbows Award.
2002: Appeared in Frank McKlusky, C.I.
In 2002, Parton appeared as an overprotective mother in the comedy Frank McKlusky, C.I..
November 4, 2003: Honored as a BMI Icon
On November 4, 2003, Dolly Parton was honored as a BMI Icon at the 2003 BMI Country Awards.
2003: Death of Avie Lee Caroline
In 2003, Avie Lee Caroline, Dolly Parton's mother, passed away.
2003: Appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show
In 2003, Dolly Parton appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show where she discussed her cosmetic surgery.
2003: Parents as Teachers National Center – Child and Family Advocacy Award
In 2003, Dolly Parton received the Parents as Teachers National Center – Child and Family Advocacy Award for her contributions to literacy.
2003: Partnership Award from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
In 2003, Dolly Parton's efforts to preserve the bald eagle through the American Eagle Foundation's sanctuary at Dollywood earned her the Partnership Award from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
2003: Tribute Album 'Just Because I'm a Woman: Songs of Dolly Parton' Released
In 2003, a tribute album called "Just Because I'm a Woman: Songs of Dolly Parton" was released, featuring various artists covering Parton's songs.
2003: Buffy the Vampire Slayer concluded
In 2003, the television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer, produced by Sandollar Productions, ended.
April 14, 2004: Living Legend Medal by the U.S. Library of Congress
On April 14, 2004, Dolly Parton was awarded the Living Legend Medal by the U.S. Library of Congress for her contributions to the cultural heritage of the United States.
2004: 9 to 5 on AFI's 100 Years...100 Songs list
In 2004, the song 9 to 5 was no. 78 on the "AFI's 100 Years...100 Songs" list released by the American Film Institute.
October 2005: Composing songs for 9 to 5: The Musical
In October 2005, Dolly Parton was composing songs for a Broadway musical theater adaptation of the film '9 to 5'.
October 29, 2005: Composing songs for 9 to 5: The Musical
According to the public-radio program Studio 360, in October 2005 Dolly Parton was in the midst of composing songs for a Broadway musical theater adaptation of the film 9 to 5.
2005: Receiving the National Medal of Arts
In 2005, Dolly Parton was honored with the National Medal of Arts, recognizing her significant contributions to the arts.
2005: National Medal of Arts
In 2005, Dolly Parton was honored with the National Medal of Arts, the highest honor given by the U.S. government for excellence in the arts.
2005: Academy Award Nomination for 'Travelin' Thru' and Phoenix Film Critics Society Award
In 2005, Dolly Parton's song "Travelin' Thru" from the film Transamerica was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song and won Best Original Song at the 2005 Phoenix Film Critics Society Awards.
December 3, 2006: Kennedy Center Honors
On December 3, 2006, Dolly Parton received the Kennedy Center Honors from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts for her lifetime of contributions to the arts.
December 2006: Pledge and Benefit Concert for Hospital and Cancer Center
In December 2006, Dolly Parton pledged $500,000 towards a proposed $90 million hospital and cancer center in Sevierville named after Robert F. Thomas, and she also announced a benefit concert to raise additional funds for the project. That same year, Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris allowed use of their music in a PETA ad campaign encouraging pet owners to keep their dogs indoors rather than chained outside.
2006: Hannah Montana as Aunt Dolly
In 2006, Dolly Parton appeared on the Disney Channel series Hannah Montana as "Aunt Dolly", visiting Hannah and her family.
2006: Publication of 'Dolly's Dixie Fixin's: Love, Laughter and Lots of Good Food'
In 2006, Dolly Parton published her cookbook, "Dolly's Dixie Fixin's: Love, Laughter and Lots of Good Food".
June 2007: Industry presentations for 9 to 5: The Musical
In late June 2007, industry presentations for '9 to 5: The Musical' were held, starring Megan Hilty, Allison Janney, Stephanie J. Block, Bebe Neuwirth, and Marc Kudisch.
November 8, 2007: Woodrow Wilson Award for Public Service
On November 8, 2007, Dolly Parton received the Woodrow Wilson Award for Public Service from the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars of the Smithsonian Institution at a ceremony in Nashville.
2007: Hannah Montana as Aunt Dolly
In 2007, Dolly Parton appeared on the Disney Channel series Hannah Montana as "Aunt Dolly", visiting Hannah and her family.
January 2008: Closure of Dolly Parton's Stampede in Orlando
In January 2008, the Dolly Parton's Stampede venue in Orlando, Florida, closed after the land and building were sold to a developer.
2008: Appearance on American Idol
In 2008, Dolly Parton appeared on American Idol as a performer.
2008: Release of Backwoods Barbie album
In 2008, Dolly Parton released the album Backwoods Barbie.
2008: Featured in The Book Lady
In 2008, Dolly Parton was featured in The Book Lady, a documentary about her campaign for children's literacy.
April 30, 2009: Opening of 9 to 5: The Musical on Broadway
On April 30, 2009, Dolly Parton's "9 to 5: The Musical" opened on Broadway at the Marquis Theatre in New York to mixed reviews.
May 8, 2009: Honorary Doctorate from University of Tennessee
On May 8, 2009, Dolly Parton delivered the commencement speech at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville's College of Arts and Sciences graduation ceremony, where she also received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from the university.
September 6, 2009: Closing of 9 to 5: The Musical on Broadway
On September 6, 2009, Dolly Parton's "9 to 5: The Musical" closed on Broadway after a short run.
2009: Public Support for Same-Sex Marriage
In 2009, Dolly Parton publicly came out in support of same-sex marriage, solidifying her long history of openly supporting the gay community.
2009: Expected to reprise her television role
In 2009, Parton expected to reprise her television role as Hannah's godmother in the musical comedy film Hannah Montana: The Movie, but the character was omitted from the screenplay.
2009: Connie Francis revealed Parton tried to film her life story.
In 2009, singer Connie Francis revealed that Dolly Parton had been contacting her for years in an attempt to film the singer's life story, but Francis declined.
2009: Interview on Larry King Live
In a 2009 interview on CNN's Larry King Live, Dolly Parton said she had written "at least 3,000" songs and writes something every day.
2010: Hannah Montana as Aunt Dolly
In 2010, Dolly Parton appeared on the Disney Channel series Hannah Montana as "Aunt Dolly", visiting Hannah and her family.
June 3, 2011: Dolly Parton Day in South Carolina
On June 3, 2011, Dolly Parton appeared for the opening of Pirates Voyage Fun, Feast and Adventure in Myrtle Beach, and the South Carolina General Assembly declared June 3, 2011, as Dolly Parton Day.
June 2011: Lumberjack Feud Dinner Show opening
In June 2011, the Lumberjack Feud Dinner Show in Pigeon Forge opened.
June 2011: Myrtle Beach Pirates Voyage Fun, Feast and Adventure Opening
In June 2011, the Myrtle Beach location of Dolly Parton's Stampede became Pirates Voyage Fun, Feast and Adventure.
2011: Voice Role in Gnomeo & Juliet
In 2011, Dolly Parton had a voice role in the comedy family film Gnomeo & Juliet, an animated film with garden gnomes about William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
2011: Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award
In 2011, Dolly Parton received a Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award, adding to her total of 11 Grammy Awards and 55 nominations.
2011: Comments on Marriage
In 2011, Dolly Parton said, "We're really very proud of our marriage. It's the first for both of us. And the last."
January 19, 2012: Announcement of new water and snow park
On January 19, 2012, Dolly Parton's 66th birthday, Gaylord Opryland and Dollywood announced plans to open a $50 million water and snow park in Nashville.
September 29, 2012: Dolly Parton withdrew support for Nashville Park
On September 29, 2012, Dolly Parton officially withdrew her support for the Nashville park due to the restructuring of Gaylord Entertainment Company after its merger with Marriott International.
October 12, 2012: UK tour for Dolly Parton's 9 to 5: The Musical commenced
Ambassador Theatre Group announced a 2012 UK tour for Dolly Parton's 9 to 5: The Musical, commencing at Manchester Opera House, on October 12, 2012.
2012: 3,000 Songs Written and 100 Million Records Sold
As of 2012, Dolly Parton had written more than 3,000 songs and sold more than 100 million records, making her one of the best-selling female artists of all time.
2012: Co-starred in Joyful Noise
In 2012, Dolly Parton co-starred with Queen Latifah in the musical film Joyful Noise, playing a choir director's widow who joins forces with Latifah's character to save a small Georgia town's gospel choir.
2012: Dolly Parton loses Dolly Parton lookalike contest
In 2012, Dolly Parton revealed that she had entered a Dolly Parton drag queen lookalike contest and lost.
June 12, 2015: Dollywood Company Purchased Lumberjack Feud Dinner Show
On June 12, 2015, it was announced that the Dollywood Company had purchased the Lumberjack Feud Dinner Show in Pigeon Forge.
December 2015: Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors Aired on NBC
In December 2015, Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors, a made-for-TV film based on Parton's song "Coat of Many Colors", aired on NBC, with narration by Parton.
2015: Parton announced new production company Dixie Pixie Productions
In 2015, Dolly Parton announced that her new production company would be called Dixie Pixie Productions and would produce movies-of-week in development with NBC Television and Magnolia Hill Productions.
2015: Lichen Species Named in Honor of Dolly Parton
In 2015, a newly discovered species of lichen found growing in the southern Appalachians was named Japewiella dollypartoniana in honor of Dolly Parton's music and her efforts to bring national and global attention to that region.
May 6, 2016: Vow renewal announced
On May 6, 2016, Dolly Parton announced that she and Carl Dean would renew their vows in honor of their 50th wedding anniversary later in the month.
November 2016: Cameo in Coat of Many Colors Sequel
In November 2016, Dolly Parton also had a cameo in the sequel to Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors.
2016: Participation in Telethons for Great Smoky Mountains Wildfire Relief
In 2016, Dolly Parton participated in a telethon to raise money for victims of the Great Smoky Mountains wildfires, held in Nashville on December 9. Additionally, Parton hosted her own telethon on December 13 and reportedly raised around $9 million. Her "My People Fund" provided financial assistance to affected families.
2016: Great Smoky Mountains Wildfires
In 2016, the Great Smoky Mountains wildfires prompted Dolly Parton to launch the "My People Fund" to provide financial relief to victims.
2016: Opening of the renovated Lumberjack Feud Dinner Show
In 2016, the new, renovated Lumberjack Feud Dinner Show by the Dollywood Company opened.
April 2017: University of Tennessee Study on "My People Fund"
In April 2017, University of Tennessee College of Social Work professor Stacia West surveyed 100 recipients of the 'My People Fund' emergency relief funds to study the fund's financial impact on wildfire victims.
December 2017: Follow-up Survey on "My People Fund"
In December 2017, a follow-up survey was conducted by University of Tennessee College of Social Work on recipients of the 'My People Fund' to study the fund's financial impact on wildfire victims.
2017: Net Worth Estimated
As of 2017, Dolly Parton's net worth was estimated at $500 million.
February 2018: Donated 100 Millionth Free Book
In February 2018, Dolly Parton donated her 100 millionth free book, a copy of Parton's children's picture book Coat of Many Colors, to the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. and was honored by the Library of Congress on account of the "charity sending out its 100 millionth book".
June 2018: Announced Netflix series
In June 2018, Dolly Parton announced an eight-part Netflix series, featuring her music career, where she is its executive producer and co-star.
2018: Second Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
In 2018, Dolly Parton received a second star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, inducted alongside Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris in recognition of their work as a trio. Parton was also recognized in the Guinness World Records for holding records for the Most Decades with a Top 20 hit and Most Hits on Billboard's Hot Country Songs Chart by a Female Artist.
2018: Death of brother Floyd Estel
In 2018, Dolly Parton's brother Floyd Estel died.
2018: FBI Honors Parton for Wildfire Aid Work
In 2018, the FBI honored Dolly Parton with the 2018 Director's Community Leadership Award at a ceremony at FBI Headquarters in Washington for her wildfire aid work.
November 2019: Dolly Parton's Heartstrings Aired
In November 2019, Dolly Parton's Heartstrings aired on Netflix.
December 2019: Here I Am added to Netflix
In December 2019, the biographical documentary Here I Am was added to the catalog of the Netflix streaming service.
2019: Discovering composition of Jolene and I Will Always Love You
In 2019, on Brian Johnson: A Life on the Road, Dolly Parton found old cassette tapes, realizing she composed both "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You" in the same session.
April 10, 2020: Re-release of 93 songs from six classic albums
On April 10, 2020, Dolly Parton re-released 93 songs from six of her classic albums: Little Sparrow, Halos & Horns, For God and Country, Better Day, Those Were The Days, and Live and Well.
May 27, 2020: Release of 'When Life Is Good Again'
On May 27, 2020, Dolly Parton released a new song called "When Life Is Good Again" to uplift spirits during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.
May 28, 2020: Music video premiere for 'When Life Is Good Again'
On May 28, 2020, Dolly Parton's music video for "When Life Is Good Again" premiered on Time 100 talks.
October 2020: Featured on 'Pink' single and release of 'A Holly Dolly Christmas'
In October 2020, Dolly Parton was featured on the single "Pink" alongside Monica, Jordin Sparks, Sara Evans and Rita Wilson, released for Breast Cancer Research. Also, in October 2020, she released the album 'A Holly Dolly Christmas'.
November 2020: Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square
In November 2020, Dolly Parton produced and starred in the Netflix musical film Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square, which won her a Primetime Emmy Award.
2020: Grammy Award for "God Only Knows"
In 2020, Dolly Parton received a Grammy award for her collaboration with For King & Country on their song, "God Only Knows".
2020: Inspiration Credits in 'Songteller: My Life in Lyrics'
In her 2020 book 'Songteller: My Life in Lyrics', Dolly Parton credits her mother and Aunt Dorothy Jo for much of her musical inspiration.
March 2021: COVID-19 Vaccination and Encouragement
In March 2021, Dolly Parton was vaccinated against COVID-19 at Vanderbilt University, labeling social media accounts of the occasion "Dolly gets a dose of her own medicine." Parton strongly encouraged everyone to get vaccinated when eligible and performed a song celebrating her vaccination, set to the tune of her song "Jolene".
November 2021: Parton appears in final season of Grace and Frankie
In November 2021, Dolly Parton was confirmed to be appearing in the final season of Grace and Frankie in a guest-starring role, reuniting with her 9 to 5 co-stars Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda.
2021: Appeared on Country Charts in Seven Decades
As of 2021, Dolly Parton had appeared on the country music charts in each of seven decades, the most of any artist.
2021: Turned Down Presidential Medal of Freedom and Request to Remove Statue Bill
In 2021, Dolly Parton turned down the Presidential Medal of Freedom for a third time to avoid the appearance of politics. Additionally, in response to a proposal by the Tennessee legislature to erect a statue of Parton, she requested the bill be removed from consideration, feeling it was inappropriate given world events.
2021: Inclusion on Time 100 List
In 2021, Dolly Parton was included on the Time 100, Time's annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
2021: Death of brother Randle Huston
In 2021, Dolly Parton's brother Randle Huston (Randy) died.
2021: Release of duet version of 'Does He Love You' with Reba McEntire
In 2021, a duet version of the song "Does He Love You" with singer Reba McEntire was released.
July 2022: Appears as a simulation of herself on The Orville
In July 2022, Dolly Parton appeared as a simulation of herself on the sci-fi show The Orville in the episode "Midnight Blue".
October 2022: Parton announces she will no longer tour
In October 2022, Dolly Parton stated in an interview that she would no longer tour, but would continue to play live shows occasionally.
November 5, 2022: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
On November 5, 2022, Dolly Parton was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
2022: Asteroid Named in Honor of Dolly Parton
In 2022, Asteroid (10731) Dollyparton, formerly known as 1998 BL3, was named in her honor.
2022: Received Courage and Civility Award from Jeff Bezos
In late 2022, Dolly Parton received a $100 million Courage and Civility Award from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos for her charity work focused on improving children's literacy around the world.
December 31, 2022: Co-hosting Miley's New Year's Eve Party
On December 31, 2022, Dolly Parton co-hosted NBC's New Year's special, Miley's New Year's Eve Party.
January 17, 2023: Announcement of first rock album, Rockstar
On January 17, 2023, Dolly Parton announced on The View that she would release her first rock album, titled Rockstar, later that year.
January 20, 2023: Release of soundtrack single 'Gonna Be You' from 80 for Brady
On January 20, 2023, the soundtrack single "Gonna Be You" from the movie 80 for Brady was released. The song was written by Diane Warren, and performed by Dolly Parton, Belinda Carlisle, Cyndi Lauper, Debbie Harry and Gloria Estefan.
May 11, 2023: Release of lead single 'World on Fire'
On May 11, 2023, Dolly Parton released "World on Fire", the lead single from her upcoming album, Rockstar. The song reached number 1 a week later.
November 17, 2023: Release of Rockstar album
On November 17, 2023, Dolly Parton released her rock album, Rockstar, featuring collaborations with various artists. The album received positive reviews and achieved high chart positions.
2023: American Library Association Honorary Membership
In 2023, Dolly Parton was awarded American Library Association Honorary Membership.
2023: Ranked on Rolling Stone's 200 Greatest Singers List
In 2023, Dolly Parton was ranked at No. 27 on Rolling Stone′s list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time.
2023: Release of Rockstar Album
In 2023, Dolly Parton's forty-ninth solo studio album, Rockstar, was released, achieving the position of her highest-charting Billboard 200 album.
2023: Halftime performance at NFL game
On Thanksgiving 2023, Dolly Parton performed songs during halftime at the Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys NFL football game.
January 2024: Parton Discusses Faith in New Humanist Magazine
In January 2024, Dolly Parton discussed her liberal approach to faith in the New Humanist magazine.
June 2024: Announcement of autobiographical musical
In June 2024, Dolly Parton announced an autobiographical musical about her life and career initially titled Hello, I'm Dolly.
2024: Death of brother David Wilburn
In 2024, Dolly Parton's brother David Wilburn died.
2024: Publication of Good Lookin' Cookin'
In 2024, Dolly Parton's cookbook Good Lookin' Cookin', co-written with her sister Rachel, was published, recalling numerous family meals.
![Good Lookin' Cookin': A Year of Meals - A Lifetime of Family, Friends, and Food [A Cookbook]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/518J4CCf2lL._SL500_.jpg "Good Lookin' Cookin': A Year of Meals - A Lifetime of Family, Friends, and Food [A Cookbook]")
2024: $2 Million Donation to Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts
In 2024, following Hurricane Helene, Dolly Parton announced a donation of $2 million to relief efforts, with $1 million coming personally and another $1 million through her businesses and the Dollywood Foundation.
February 14, 2025: Featured on Sabrina Carpenter's 'Please Please Please'
On February 14, 2025, Dolly Parton was featured on Sabrina Carpenter's song "Please Please Please" on the deluxe edition of her album Short n' Sweet and its accompanying music video.
February 2025: Indiana Governor Declines to Support Parton's Imagination Library
In February 2025, Indiana Governor Mike Braun declined to support a state 50% match for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. Dollywood Foundation President Jeff Conyers expressed hope that Braun and the Indiana Legislature would restore the state's funding match. Braun subsequently tasked his wife Maureen with finding ways to keep the Imagination Library's Indiana chapter alive.
March 3, 2025: Announcement of Carl Dean's death
On March 3, 2025, Dolly Parton announced on her social media that Carl Dean had died in Nashville at the age of 82.
March 7, 2025: Release of 'If You Hadn't Been There'
On March 7, 2025, Dolly Parton released the single "If You Hadn't Been There", as a tribute to her husband, who had died a week before; in the United Kingdom, single peaked at number 21 on the sales and downloads chart components.
2026: Planned Broadway opening of autobiographical musical
In 2026, Dolly Parton aims to open her autobiographical musical, Dolly: An Original Musical, on Broadway.
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