Reba McEntire Honors Dolly Parton at 2026 Emmys with "Appalachian Memories" and Butterfly Accessories

During the 2026 Emmy Awards, Reba McEntire honored the late Dolly Parton, who passed away last month at the age of 80, by singing "Appalachian Memories," a ballad from 1989. McEntire selected this song to celebrate Parton's heritage and roots in the Smoky Mountains. She donned a stunning white sequined gown with long sleeves and a deep-V neckline, crafted by Michael Schmidt, reminiscent of Parton’s white fringed dress from her 1983 "Live in London" special. Jewelry borrowed from Parton's niece, Rebecca, was arranged by manager Justin McIntosh, featuring rhinestone earrings and a butterfly ring. McEntire first met Parton on September 17, 1977, at the Grand Ole Opry, where Parton wore a black chiffon outfit adorned with rhinestone butterflies. Their collaboration included a 2021 reimagined video of "Does He Love You" and Parton's guest role on Reba. Following a tragic plane crash that took McEntire's band in 1991, Parton was quick to offer her own band, with her bandleader assisting in forming a new group. McEntire remarked that Parton primarily communicated via fax and noted that even Kenny Rogers didn’t have her phone number, describing Parton as potentially more stunning in person than on stage.