Dolly Parton, Iconic Singer and Philanthropist, Dies at 78
Dolly Parton, the legendary country artist, actress, songwriter, and philanthropist, passed away at the age of 78, with her death announced on Tuesday. A wave of tributes poured in from across the political landscape, featuring former presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump. In a rare gesture, Trump ordered flags to be flown at half-mast. Parton, who maintained a 65% net approval rating, skillfully navigated away from partisan politics and turned down the Presidential Medal of Freedom from both leaders. Her illustrious career boasted the 1977 classic "Here You Come Again" and the 1980 movie "9 to 5." She also established Dollywood and the Imagination Library. Growing up in Tennessee's poverty, she is celebrated for her humor and generosity, with tributes from Elton John and Oprah Winfrey.
Key facts
- Dolly Parton died on Tuesday, with tributes from politicians and celebrities.
- Trump ordered flags at half-mast, a rare honor.
- Parton's net approval rating was 65% per YouGov.
- She declined the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Trump and Biden.
- Parton had crossover pop success in 1977 and film debut in 1980's '9 to 5'.
- She owned Dollywood, the largest employer in her county.
- Her philanthropy included Imagination Library and Moderna vaccine funding.
- She grew up in poverty in a one-bedroom log cabin with 11 siblings.
Entities
Artists
Institutions
- BBC
- Indiana University
- YouGov
- Fox News
- American Eagle Foundation
- Dollywood
- Moderna
- USA Today
- CNN
- ABC News
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
- Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
- Snopes
Locations
- Tennessee
- United States
- France
- Poland
- North Carolina
- Los Angeles