Elton John, Taylor Swift and Billy Ray Cyrus lead tributes to Dolly Parton
She passed away this week
Last updated 9 hours ago
Following the sad announcement that Dolly Parton had passed away, celebrities and musicians around the world have been sharing tributes for the late singer - famous for songs such as 'Jolene', '9 to 5' and 'I Will Always Love'.
On Tuesday 25th August the sad news of Dolly's passing was shared by her family on her official social media accounts, with Bryan Seaver (Dolly's head of security, nephew and the son of Dolly Parton's sister - Cassie Parton), announcing the news.
In the video he told fans: "Hey everyone. My name is Bryan Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, and I am representing the Parton and Owens family today, announcing the of my Aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean.
"Sister, sis, Aunt Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next."
Thousands of messages poured in, in the comments, with Greatest Hits Radio presenter Zoe Ball writing: 'Oh Dolly. An extraordinary woman, a true trailblazer, and glorious company. Forever grateful for her music, her passion & her wisdom ♥️✨'.
Pop star Kylie Minogue simply shared some star emojis: '✨✨✨'.
While Khloe Kardashian shared a lengthy statement, saying: 'I swear I believed Mrs Dolly was immortal. Some people are so extraordinary, their existence feels almost impossible. Dolly was one of those people.
'A once-in-a-lifetime soul. A woman whose light, heart, talent and humanity changed this world forever.
'To have admired her was a gift. To have met her, spent time in her presence, and somehow been lucky enough that Dolly Parton knew my name… I will never have words big enough for what that means to me.
'What an astronomical human being. What a legacy. What a loss.
'There will never be another Dolly 💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔
'Beautiful tribute. Thank you for sharing your Dolly with us'.
Elton John
Other celebrities took to their own social media accounts to share their tributes, with Elton John writing in an Instagram Story: 'Shocked and devastated to hear of Dolly's passing. A giant of an artist - unique and irreplaceable, with the kindest heart.'
Kenny Rogers
Kenny Rogers, who sang 'Islands In The Stream' with Dolly wrote: 'Our Dearest Dolly:
'It's painstakingly hard to put into words what you meant to Kenny...and to all of us.
'When the two of you sang about being islands in the stream who together had found peace unknown, having real love for each other as true friends who would always stand by each other, and how you just can't make old friends, it was always as genuine as it could possibly be...coming straight from the heart and reflecting what you both felt for each other.
'Saying a simple, yet sincere thank you could never be enough for bringing so much joy, laughter, and amazing songs and stories into our lives.
'Your irreplaceable spirit of compassion, positivity, friendliness, and immense generosity will live on with your remarkable legacy.
'We must accept that you've simply traded your butterfly wings in for angel wings.
'Though we write this through tears and feelings of extraordinary grief and sadness, at the same time we realize how thankful we are that you were able to live such a vibrant and meaningful life using your many God-given talents, in turn making millions of other lives better, and we are happy for you and the reunions you're enjoying with your heavenly arrival.
'Dolly, we will think of you every step of the way...and we will ALWAYS love you!'
Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand added: 'So sorry to hear about Dolly - she was a true force of nature. May she rest in peace 😢. Barbra.'
Blake Shelton
Country music star Blake Shelton wrote: 'I can say with absolute certainty that we are all feeling the same heart brokenness today. I only got to spend any real time with Dolly when Gwen and I got to work with her on The Voice. I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is. It was like being with the funnest, most loving, most caring and closest member of your family. Truly a loss for the entire world. We love you Dolly.'
Taylor Swift
In a statement shared by the BBC, pop star Taylor Swift, who started out in country music wrote: 'A world without Dolly doesn’t feel possible, real, or right. But because of the eternally generous way she spent her time on this earth and the countless lives she changed for the better, her legacy will be an everlasting one.'
She continued: 'She was truly the gift that kept on giving. Dolly gave us someone to look up to while encouraging us to be who we are as individuals. Somehow she was able to give us her lessons about the world gently and honestly, simultaneously, and oftentimes hilariously.
'She managed to give the world the ultimate mystery and fantasy in some corners of her life, but to give full transparency in the ways that counted. Somehow she was true grace and true grit, all in one dazzling person. She possessed the softest heart when it came to the struggles of others, and a backbone of steel to defend her own self worth as an artist.'
Billy Ray Cyrus
Singer Billy Ray Cyrus also shared a long tribute to the singer, writing: ' have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start. Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TV’s, right in our living rooms.
'In 1992, I’ll never forget walking into her dressing room to apologize for all the tabloid stories which claimed I was having an affair with her. In true Dolly fashion, she just looked at me, winked and said, “Honey, this trash sells records!”
'Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart. I will always love her in the same way ….. with my whole heart … and I always will.'
Sir Paul McCartney
Sir Paul McCartney also commented: 'The magnificent star Dolly Parton has died and it is so sad. She was such a wonderful woman. I first met her in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry where she had been playing with the country star Porter Wagoner and was about to start her solo career. She was so bubbly and full of life it is difficult to take in the news that she has passed. Her songwriting, her singing and her philanthropy were unrivaled in the world of country music and it is hard to imagine living in a world without Dolly.
'She was a very clever business woman who understood the value of her music and, most importantly, the effect that she had on the people of the world. There was no greater honour for me than to have her sing my song Let It Be and, even though I only made a small contribution to it, I am so honoured that she did it. I am so proud to have known her and admire her unique talents.
Thanks Dolly for the beautiful music you gave me and the whole world. We will always love you, god bless and rest in peace. You were the best.'
Mick Fleetwood
Mick shared a black and white photo of Dolly writing: 'I met Dolly Parton many years ago.. and will always remember how it felt…that instantly I was meeting an old friend. Her energy was that personable, her magic through her whole life made folks feel like they belonged. Her positive approach to life and the amazing songs she wrote is her legacy that will live on in a world that so needs healing!!❤️
'To family and friends of Dolly, my condolences… and the hundreds of millions that will miss her so….
'God bless you Dolly Parton.. ❤️🌈❤️🙏❤️'.
Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper shared a photo of with Dolly writing: 'It’s hard for me to imagine the world without Dolly. Dolly’s heart was as big as her talent. She was not only a great singer/song writer/actress/TV star, Dolly also lived her art. She used her art, her fame and her money to help so many people. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve thought to myself, “What would Dolly do?” She was a great role model for all of us. I hope she is in a place with Carl, her Mom and Dad and all her loved ones who’ve passed. She will be so missed. Rest in Peace Dolly.'
Sharon Osbourne
Sharon Osbourne shared a photo of herself with Dolly writing: 'She was sent here to bring joy, kindness and light to us all.
'Her work is done and she’s gone home. We will always love you @dollyparton 🕊️ 🙏 🪽'.
Sabrina Carpenter
'Espresso' singer Sabrina Carpenter shared on her socials: 'oh dolly 💔 the only thing i could say after we first met was “she really is an angel walking the earth” and “we look like we could be sisters!”
'i will cherish our laughter and conversations and i will keep your wisdom, your playful outlook on life, and perfect sense of humor in my pocket for the rainy days. there will never be another you and how lucky are we all to have experienced your singular magic as well as your once in a lifetime voice, songs, and heart.
'your light will be something the world will search forever to find again 🦋🦋🦋 i will always love you'. (sic)
Katy Perry
'Dark Horse' singer Katy Perry shared several videos and photos of the late singer, writing: 'Like the rest of the world, my heart sank seeing the news of dear Dolly’s passing. She meant so much to so many people for so long.'
Take a look through other famous people who have passed away in 2026:
Terry Yorath
Former Leeds and Wales footballer Terry Yorath sadly died at the age of 75 following a short illness in January. His family, including his daughter, TV presenter Gabby Logan, shared the sad news via a statement, which said: "To most he was a revered footballing hero, but to us he was Dad; a quiet, kind and gentle man. Our hearts are broken but we take comfort knowing that he will be reunited with our brother, Daniel."
Derek Martin
Actor Derek Martin, best known for playing the iconic role of cab driver Charlie Slater in BBC soap EastEnders, sadly died at the age of 92 on 10th January 2026. Derek's agent Sharon Henry sharing a statement on behalf of his family, which read: "Derek wasn't just a dad to us he was a friend and supported us through our highs and lows. He never stopped learning, he loved meeting people and was always generous with his time. We both miss him terribly. The family ask that their privacy be respected at this difficult time."
Trevor A Toussaint
Actor Trevor A Toussaint, best known for playing the role of Walter Deveraux on Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks, sadly died at the age of 65 in January. His rep confirmed the sad news on social media, writing: 'It is with deep sadness that we formally announce the passing of Trevor A Toussaint. His family wish to thank you for your well wishes and support as they take this time to privately come to terms with their great loss of an enigmatic, loving father, husband, grandfather, uncle and friend."
Francis Buchholz
German bassist Francis Buchholz, best known for his two-decade tenure with Scorpions and being a member of Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock, sadly died in. January, aged 71. A post from his family said: 'It is with overwhelming sadness and heavy hearts we share the news that our beloved Francis passed away yesterday after a private battle with cancer. He departed this world peacefully, surrounded by love.'
Catherine O'Hara
Home Alone and Schitt's Creek actress Catherine O'Hara sadly died at the age of 71 in January, following a brief illness. The Canadian-American comedy star was well known for playing Kevin's mum in Home Alone and Moira Rose in Schitt's Creek.
John Virgo
Snooker player and commentator John Virgo sadly died at the age of 79 in February. World Snooker Tour confirmed the sad news in a statement which read: "Everyone at World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo, aged 79. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV."
James Van Der Beek
Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek sadly died at the age of 48 in February, following a battle with bowel cancer. The family statement said: "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."
Robert Duvall
The Godfather actor Robert Duvall sadly passed away at the age of 95 in February. The Oscar-winning actor died "peacefully" at his home surrounded by "love and comfort", according to a statement by his wife Luciana Duvall.
Eric Dane
American actor Eric Dane, best known for his roles in TV shows like Grey's Anatomy and Euphoria, sadly died at the age of 53, after being diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in 2025.
Mike Vernon
Fleetwood Mac, David Bowie and Eric Clapton producer Mike Vernon died aged 81. His family released a statement saying: 'To the world, he was a passionate champion of the blues and a legendary record producer who helped shape so much incredible music.
'But to us, he was also our dad, a brother, an uncle, a grandpa and partner — our steady guide, our storyteller, and our biggest supporter.
'We will miss him beyond words, but his music, his spirit, and his love will stay with us always.'
Mel Schilling
Mel Schilling, relationship expert and host of Married at First Sight in the UK and Australia, sadly died at the age of 54 after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. Her husband shared a statement, which read: 'In her final moments, when I thought cancer had taken away her ability to speak, she ushered me closer and whispered a message for Maddie and me that will sustain me for the rest of my life. It took all of her remaining strength, and that gesture summed up our wee Melsie perfectly. Even then, her only thought was for Maddie and me.'
Alan Osmond
Alan Osmond has passed away age 76. The news was shared by his family, with his brother Merrill telling fans: 'Two days before my brother, Alan, passed, I was blessed to sit quietly with him. We talked as brothers do, heart to heart. He was struggling, but when I shared a joke or two, he found the strength to chuckle… and then he smiled.'
Elsie Kelly
Benidorm actress Elsie Kelly passed away on 21st April 2026, aged 89. She was best known for playing Noreen (and later her twin sister Doreen) in the hit TV series, alongside her on-screen son, Johnny Vegas, who played Geoff. Johnny paid tribute to his 'mam', calling her 'generous, talented, funny, kind and hard grafting'.
Nedra Talley Ross (The Ronettes)
The Ronettes' Nedra Talley Ross has sadly died aged 80, the singer passed away peacefully at home according to her daughter, who said on Facebook: 'At approximately 8:30 this morning our mother Nedra Talley Ross went home to be with the Lord.
'She was safe in her own bed at home with her family close, knowing she was loved. Thank you Lord. There will be a Celebration of Life in the future and I will post information when plans have been confirmed.'
Jake Hall
Former TOWIE star and model Jake Hall sadly passed away at the age of 35 in May, following a 'tragic accident' which happened in Mallorca, Spain. A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office said: "We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities."
Judith Chalmers
Wish You Were Here presenter Judith Chalmers sadly died at the age of 90 in May. In a statement to ITV News, Judith's family said: "After living an extraordinary life that involved over 60 years in broadcasting and countless adventures all over the globe, Judy sadly passed away last night, surrounded by the family she loved so much after suffering with Alzheimer's for some years.
"We will miss her greatly but she leaves behind a giant suitcase of the happiest of memories."
Lauren Bennett
LMFAO vocalist and G.R.L. band member Lauren Bennett sadly passed away at the age of 36 in May. Her G.R.L. band mates paid tribute in a statement on 6th July, writing: 'It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Lauren. Our hearts are broken, and we cannot begin to express how much she meant to us. We will forever cherish the love, laughter, and countless memories she gave us. Her beautiful spirit touched so many lives, and she will be deeply missed and forever loved. Rest peacefully, sweet Lauren. You will always be in our hearts. Your GRLS, Em, Tash, and P'. (sic)
Peabo Bryson
Peabo Bryson, the two-time GRAMMY-winning R&B vocalist, died aged 75 after recently suffering a stroke. He is most recognised for Disney film favourite songs including the 'Beauty and the Beast' title track and Aladdin's 'A Whole New World'. His family confirmed he "transitioned peacefully" on Tuesday 2nd June 2026.
Tributes poured in from Celine Dion, his duet partner on 'Beauty and the Beast', and actress Viola Davis. Peabo's five-decade career shaped countless playlists with smooth soul hits and iconic Disney romance duets that became shorthand for slow-jam devotion.
Kanya King CBE
On Friday 5th June, MOBO Organisation announced the sad passing of its Founder and CEO, Kanya King CBE. Kanya passed away peacefully on 3rd June 2026 after a courageous and characteristically determined battle with colon cancer. She was surrounded by her family, close friends and love.
Anthony Head
Anthony Head, famous for his roles in Merlin, Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Ted Lasso, sadly died at the age of 72 in early June. A statement from his daughters, actresses Emily and Daisy Head, to the Press Association, said: "It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of our extraordinary father, Anthony Head.
"He passed away peacefully of complications due to pneumonia, surrounded by his family. It has been, and forever will be, an honour and a privilege to be his daughters, and to have witnessed first hand the impact both he and his work have had on so many."
Görel Hanser (ABBA Manager)
ABBA shared a touching tribute to their long-time manager Görel Hanser, who passed away in June at the age of 76. Görel, who worked with ABBA for many years in the 70s and beyond, was also a good friend of the band.
Roger Cook
Investigative journalist Roger Cook, known for The Cook Report, died in June 2026, aged 83. A family statement said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Roger Cook, who died peacefully on Saturday after a short illness.
"Alongside a distinguished and award winning career in journalism, Roger was first and foremost a beloved husband and father."
Clive Davis
Clive Davis, the music producer who has worked with artists such as Bruce Springsteen and Whitney Houston, sadly passed away at the age of 94, in June. he family said: 'To the world, our father was the iconic music legend whose vision, instincts, and relentless pursuit of excellence shaped the soundtrack of countless lives. He discovered, mentored, and championed the greatest artists in modern music history, leaving an indelible mark on culture that will endure for generations.'
Dame Penelope Keith
Actress Dame Penelope Keith, best known for her roles in sitcoms The Good Life and To The Manor Born, sadly passed away at the age of 86 in June. A statement on behalf of her family said: "We are deeply saddened to announce that Dame Penelope Keith died peacefully whilst living with cancer at her home in Surrey where she had lived for more than 50 years. The family is grateful for the care and support she received throughout her treatments, and ask that their privacy be respected at this time."
Victor Willis (Village People)
Victor Willis, a founding member and the lead singer of the Village People, has sadly died following a short illness. The singer, who co-founded the iconic group in 1977, was the distinctive voice behind hits such as 'YMCA' and 'In The Navy'.
Bonnie Tyler
Singer Bonnie Tyler sadly died at the age of 75 in July. The sad news was confirmed in a statement uploaded to Bonnie's Facebook page, which read: 'Bonnie's family and team are heartbroken to announce that Bonnie unexpectedly passed away last night in hospital in Portugal as a result of the illness that she was being treated for'.
Ann Widdecombe
Ann Widdecombe, the former MP and MEP who also featured on shows like Celebrity Big Brother and Strictly Come Dancing, sadly died at the age of 78 in July. A statement from her management said: "It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, DSG. We send our deepest condolences to Ann's family and friends. We ask that the family's wish not to be contacted at this sad time is respected."
Dermot Murnaghan
Following a battle with prostate cancer, TV presenter Dermot Murnaghan sadly passed away at the age of 68 in July. A statement posted on X said: 'It is with great sadness that the family of Dermot Murnaghan announces that he passed away at home in north London earlier this morning (July 11) at the age of 68 following a period of illness with prostate cancer. He died peacefully with his family at his side. The family wish to thank the medical teams who cared for Dermot with such sensitivity and extraordinary compassion throughout his illness'. (sic)
Theo Burrell
Antiques Roadshow star Theo Burrell sadly died at the age of 39 in July. The TV presenter was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a highly aggressive and incurable form of brain tumour in June 2022. Her family released a statement saying: "It is with great sadness that I share the news that Theo passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Wednesday afternoon. Neither she nor her medical team foresaw this happening quite so quickly.
"She was an incredible person who fought hard for her family, friends and raising awareness of this cruel disease."
Sam Neill
Jurassic Park legend Sam Neill sadly passed away at the age of 78 in July, in what his family described as "sudden and unexpected". The statement said: "It is with immense sadness that the whānau extended family of Sam Neill share the news of his passing on Monday 13th July, in Sydney, Australia. Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterised his whole life.
"The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer free."
Brenda Fricker
Oscar-winning actress Brenda Fricker, best known for her roles in Casualty, My Left Foot, and as the Central Park pigeon lady in Home Alone 2, sadly died at the age of 81 in July. In a statement, her agent Phil Belfield said: "We will never see her like again and the world is lesser for the lack of her. I was honoured to know, love and work with her and she will always have a place in my heart and in the heart of so many film and TV fans the world over."
Kevin Keegan
England, Liverpool and Newcastle footballing legend, Kevin Keegan, sadly died at the age of 75 in July, following a battle with cancer. His family said: "It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75. The former England player and manager had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments."
Bill Oddie
Wildlife presenter and comedian Bill Oddie sadly passed away in July at the age of 85. His agent said: "Bill was a multi-talented celebrity – wildlife presenter, broadcaster, comedian, writer, songwriter, musician and conservationist. Yet it was never fame that he valued.
Ronnie Le Drew (Zippy puppeteer)
Ronnie Le Drew, the puppeteer behind Rainbow character Zippy, has died following a short illness. The sad news was shared by the British Puppet Guild, of which he was President. The Guild posted a black and white photo of Ronnie, along with a statement, which read: 'We are saddened to announce the death of our President and friend Ronnie Le Drew, following a short illness. Ronnie has been our President for 10 years, possibly the most active and supportive President we have ever had or will have.
Glen Hansard
Oscar-winning Irish musician and activist Glen Hansard sadly died in a motorcycle crash in Dublin. He was the frontman for the Irish band The Frames, featured in the Irish film The Commitments, and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for 'Falling Slowly' in 2007, which he co-wrote with Markéta Irglová for the movie Once.
Vincent Pastore
The Sopranos actor Vincent Pastore sadly passed away in August, aged 80. The actor is best known for his portrayal of tough guy Salvatore Bonpensiero in the popular 90s-00s American mob drama, but also starred in films like Goodfellas and Awakenings. His co-star Jamie-Lynn Sigler said: "A wonderful actor, a kind and loving man. It was an honour to know you and work with you."
William Orbit
British music producer William Orbit, known for his work with acts including Blur, Madonna, All Saints and U2, sadly passed away at the age of 69 in August. A statement made by William's friends said: "We are deeply saddened by his passing. He will be greatly missed by us and by so many whose lives he touched through his music, friendship and kindness."
Hayden Panettiere
American actress Hayden Panettiere, best known for role in Heroes and Nashville, sadly died at the age of 36 in August. Her father announced the sad news saying: "It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her - and to the millions who watched her onscreen."
Jo Gardiner
Race Across The World series two contestant Jo Gardiner sadly passed away at the age of 61 in August, following a battle with cancer. The sad news comes just one year after Jo's son Sam, who she appeared on the show with, lost his life in a tragic car crash.
Dolly Parton
Music legend Dolly Parton sadly died at the age of 80 in August, after a brief battle with cancer. Her nephew Brian Seaver announced the news in a video shared on her Instagram page, with tributes later pouring in from around the world.
Tim Curry
Acting legend Tim Curry, best known for his roles in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Home Alone 2 and Annie, passed away aged 80 on Tuesday 25th August 2026. It followed a stroke in 2012 which left him in a wheelchair.