Dolly Parton Faces Health Challenges
In September 2025, country music icon Dolly Parton was scheduled to attend an event at Dollywood for the announcement of the park’s new attraction, Night Flight Expedition. But, she had to cancel at the last minute due to kidney stones that caused an infection.
Then just a few weeks later, Dolly announced that was forced to postpone her upcoming Las Vegas residency shows due to unforeseen “health challenges.”
Dolly explained that she wanted to put on her best show for fans, and would not be able to give them the experience they hoped for at this time.
“I want the fans and public to hear directly from me that, unfortunately, I will need to postpone my upcoming Las Vegas concerts. As many of you know, I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures. As I joked with them, it must be time for my hundred thousand mile checkup, although it’s not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon!” Dolly told fans on social media at the time.
The “Jolene” singer assured fans that she was not going anywhere, but the 79-year-old does feel God is calling her to “slow down” from her incredibly busy schedule.
Worries about Parton’s well-being grew even more when her sister, Freida, shared an emotional message on social media.
However, Dolly herself posted a video message on social media shortly after, clearing up the confusion about her health.
Dolly again addressed fans in November ongoing health issues forced her to skip a ceremony inducting her into the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions’ Hall of Fame.
“I sure wish I could be with you in person today, but you probably heard that I’ve been dealing with a few health challenges this fall, and my doctors told me to take it easy for just a little while,” Dolly said in the video at the time. “I’m truly sorry I can’t be there, but I sure wanted to take the chance to say thank you for this incredible honor.”
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Dolly’s Longtime Producer Shares Update On Her Health
In a recent interview with Parade, Dolly’s longtime producer Kent Wells gave an update on the singer’s health.
“She was over here at my studio last week. And she seems great. She’s singing great, she looks fantastic and seems perfectly fine,” he said.
Kent added that whatever was going on with Dolly last year must have been “serious” considering she doesn’t cancel many obligations.
“I feel like she’s great. She says she’s great. She says there’s no issue. They got it all taken care of, and that’s all I know.”