Dolly Parton’s sister, Freida Parton, has issued a clarification regarding the health status of the renowned country music artist, following widespread concern prompted by her earlier public request for prayers.
Earlier in the day, Freida, 68, had posted an appeal on Facebook urging the public to pray for her 79-year-old sister, whose recent postponement of six scheduled performances from the Dolly: Live in Las Vegas residency had already raised speculation about her wellbeing.
Subsequently, Freida published a follow-up statement to allay public fears, emphasizing that she did not intend to “alarm anyone” and explaining that Dolly had merely been “a little under the weather.” She further clarified that her initial message was not meant to imply a serious medical emergency but was instead motivated by her personal faith in “the power of prayer.”
In her own words, Freida wrote:
“I want to clear something up. I didn’t mean to scare anyone or make it sound so serious when asking for prayers for Dolly. She’s been a little under the weather, and I simply asked for prayers because I believe so strongly in the power of prayer. It was nothing more than a little sister asking for prayers for her big sister. Thank you all for lifting her up. Your love truly makes a difference.”
The clarification came after an outpouring of concern from fans, many of whom expressed relief that the situation was not grave.
Dolly Parton, who lost her husband Carl Dean earlier this year at age 82, had announced on September 28 that her Las Vegas residency—initially slated for December 2025 at Caesars Palace—would be postponed to September 2026 due to “health challenges.”
In a personal statement shared via Instagram, the Grammy-winning artist explained that she was required to undergo several medical procedures on the advice of her physicians. Maintaining her trademark humor, she assured fans that it was not “a usual trip to see [her] plastic surgeon,” joking that it was time for her “100,000-mile check-up.”
Parton also made it clear that she has no plans to retire, stating:
“Don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet. But I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you. I love you and thank you for understanding.”
Her announcement drew numerous supportive comments from fellow entertainers, including Olivia Munn, Brandi Carlile, and Jennifer Nettles, all expressing their affection and well-wishes for the country legend’s recovery.#newsafro_
