Dolly Parton delivered a pre-recorded virtual acceptance speech during the Governors Awards held on Sunday, wherein she was conferred an honorary Oscar in the category of The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
The 79-year-old recording and film icon had earlier withdrawn her physical attendance at the ceremony—conducted at The Ray Dolby Ballroom, Hollywood, California—citing unspecified health-related challenges. Notwithstanding her absence, Ms. Parton caused a video message to be produced and transmitted for presentation to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the assembled audience.
In her remarks, Ms. Parton expressed profound appreciation for the recognition, stating: “From my heart to yours, I truly thank you,” and elaborated on the personal significance of the honor. She referenced her upbringing in a household of twelve children, noting that such circumstances instilled in her an early understanding of generosity despite limited material resources. She further acknowledged the example set by her parents, emphasizing that their values taught her that giving yields greater intangible blessings. She stated that she has endeavored throughout her life to adhere to those principles and has, in turn, been “blessed more than [she] ever dreamed possible.”
Continuing her address, Ms. Parton described the award—bestowed by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences—as a significant and deeply meaningful recognition. She characterized the honor as both humbling and inspiring, expressing a renewed commitment to seek innovative ways to contribute to the welfare and upliftment of others, consistent with the humanitarian spirit that the award represents.
Ms. Parton extended specific gratitude to her long-time colleague and 9 to 5 co-star, Lily Tomlin, who formally introduced her during the ceremony. She also thanked the Academy for selecting her as the year’s honoree. As defined by the Academy, the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award is presented to an individual in the motion picture industry whose humanitarian initiatives have advanced human welfare and contributed to the remediation of social inequities.
Ms. Parton concluded her remarks by reiterating her gratitude to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for the distinction.#newsafro_
