Dolly Parton, the beloved musician and cultural icon, died after being diagnosed with cancer, according to her representatives.
They did not say what kind of cancer she had or when she was diagnosed. But she was admitted to the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville on Aug. 21.
Parton died at the hospital on Tuesday. She was 80.
Representatives for Parton told
the Associated Press that she “departed her Earthly life” after “bravely facing a brief battle with cancer.”
Parton’s death was announced by her family in a video statement Tuesday featuring her nephew Bryan Seaver, who was her head of security. It has been viewed more than 160 million times.
“She never saw a door she couldn’t open, and the doors she opened made and changed history. My family and I have shared a lifetime of beautiful memories with Dolly, but so have you,” Seaver said.
The singer, songwriter and actress was also known for her philanthropy. She started Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which gives books to children across the country.
She was recognized by the Susan G. Komen breast cancer foundation in 2023 for her support of its mission.
“She used her voice and her remarkable platform to bring hope to people facing breast cancer and to make a meaningful difference in their lives,” the organization told The Washington Post in a statement Wednesday.
“We will always be grateful for the kindness and heart she shared with our community. Her extraordinary spirit, compassion and commitment to helping others will be deeply missed.”
Public figures from across the political spectrum mourned Parton’s death and recognized her life and legacy. President Donald Trump ordered U.S. flags to fly at half-staff for a week in her honor.
Former president George W. Bush said in a statement that Parton was a great entertainer and an even greater person.
“We respected her work to promote literacy, advance health, and strengthen communities. Dolly was a talented and hardworking American who will be missed,” he said.