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Dolly Parton, the sparkling music icon, actor, philanthropist and author, has passed away at the age of 80.
Her team shared the following message on her official Instagram page, confirming the sad news, perfectly describing the Dolly we all loved:
"A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family. Dolly Parton's legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place."
In a statement to People, Dolly's team revealed she passed away following a brief battle with cancer. The type of cancer hasn't been disclosed. Earlier this year, Dolly shared that she'd been having some troubles with kidney stones and other health issues but was otherwise fine.
Dolly wasn't just an entertainer but an advocate for so many things. Her Imagination Library has delivered over 3 million books to children around the world, she donated to vaccine research during the COVID pandemic and has shown support for the Black community: "Of course Black lives matter. Do we think our little white asses are the only ones that matter? No!"
Since news of her death broke, the internet has been flooded with love for Dolly -
Sophie Bush on Instagram said: "Dolly was an advocate for all of us. From her library that mailed millions of free children's books, or her outspoken defence of women everywhere, or her allyship to the LGBTQ and Black communities, or her support of science that saves lives, she LOVED people. She chose not to be a billionaire and instead paid so much of what she could have kept for herself forward to millions of others. She was fabulous. She was radical. She was kind. She was light."
Taylor Swift shared a statement with People which partly reads: "I am so grateful for the tightropes she walked so that young girls like me could grow up dreaming of joining the circus too."
Colman Domingo said on X: "Dolly taught us that you can be anything and do anything and to do it with kindness. What a light. We are all grateful that we lived in a time of Dolly Parton. We will always love her."
Elizabeth Banks said in an Instagram video: "Dolly Parton, in show business, is the only person to aspire to be. She was the most kind, the most loving, the most talented, the most generous, the most inclusive, the most resilient, the most gritty. She was, undeniably, a force of nature."
Beyoncé posted on her website: "Dolly, you were the barometer. The north star. Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious. You taught so many lessons on how to be uniquely oneself. I am grateful for your art, your heart, your generosity, your humour, your entrepreneurship.. You are truly one of one."
Sabrina Carpenter wrote on Instagram: 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."
Viola Davis posted on Instagram: "The bastion of compassion, of altruism, authenticity, artistry, and love has left this life... And oh, how you were blessed with talent. No words to describe your reach through generations. No words to describe your love force. No words to describe the lives you touched, saved, entertained and shifted."
Jane Fonda shared on Instagram: "She was simultaneously a naughty, playful, southern gal from the hollows of Tennessee and a deep, soulful thinker who could see through people right down to their true selves. She was many things... lyricist, songstress, player of many instruments, writer, prankster, visionary, loyal friend, who'd never go to bed before she and her friends had laughed so hard they'd have to cross their legs."
Brandi Carlile wrote on Instagram: "She has been asked to comment and speak on MANY things over the years, choosing only to speak on that which brings love and mercy to real people, and shutting down any line of questioning that won't. She never wavered on accepting anyone for who they were and who they were meant to be."
Reese Witherspoon shared on Instagram: "Throughout my entire career, she sent me little notes of encouragement and support, telling me to be the light in people's lives and listen to my angels. Always signed: "I will always love you." Dolly, I miss you already. Your talent, your wisdom, and your beautiful spirit lit up our lives. Go soar with your angels... We will always love you."
And Julia Roberts said in a statement to Variety: "Dolly was a magical and joyous human. I hold knowing her as a treasure in my life. The sun has dimmed today."
(Feature Image Credit: Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock.com)
