At 79, Dolly Parton is facing an undisclosed health struggle—a prayer request shared by her sister
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There are moments when the most admirable people remind people of their humanity, and it often comes at the most unexpected times.
For decades, Dolly Parton has been a steady presence, her voice and spirit woven into the soundtrack of countless lives.
Yet even icons face moments of vulnerability, leaving fans with questions, prayers, and hope for brighter days ahead. Today, Dolly’s family is asking the world to come together in support of the country legend.
One week after Dolly announced the postponement of six Las Vegas shows, her sister Frieda Parton opened up about the singer’s current health challenges.
“Last night, I was up all night praying for my sister, Dolly,” she wrote in a heartfelt online post, adding, “Many of you know she hasn't been feeling her best lately. I truly believe in the power of prayer, and I have been led to ask all of the world that loves her to be prayer warriors and pray with me.”
Frieda ended her message with words of faith, declaring, “She's strong, she's loved. And with all the prayers being lifted for her, I know in my heart she's going to be just fine. Godspeed, my sissy Dolly. We all love you!”
Dolly herself confirmed the news directly to fans last month, explaining that she would need to delay her Dolly: Live in Las Vegas residency until 2026 while she undergoes several medical procedures.

“I want the fans and public to hear directly from me that, unfortunately, I will need to postpone my upcoming Las Vegas concerts,” she wrote on Instagram.
With her signature humor, she described it as her “100,000-mile check-up” and clarified it was “not [her] usual trip to see [her] plastic surgeon.”
Even in sharing difficult news, Dolly reassured fans that she is not retiring, telling them, “Don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet.”
The outpouring of love has been swift and heartfelt, as fellow stars and fans shared messages of support across social media.
Read next: Reveal Dolly Parton's Surprising Secret for Making the Most Delicious Sugar Cookies You'll Ever Taste!
Singer Brandi Carlile praised her as “beyond reproach,” while Jennifer Nettles encouraged, “Big adventures for you, for sure! Can’t wait to enjoy them with you! In the meantime, tend to yourself and feel better!”
Actress Julianne Hough joined the chorus with heart emojis, and fans echoed similar sentiments, posting messages like “Protect this queen at all costs!” and “Heal strong, Queen Dolly!”
For a woman who has built her career on giving joy, the response highlights how deeply her light is felt around the world.
Health concerns have surfaced for Dolly before, including her recent cancellation of a Dollywood appearance due to kidney stones.
While she appeared in good spirits in a video message at the time, many were reminded of her openness about undergoing kidney stone surgery in the past.
Earlier this year, she also endured the loss of her husband Carl Dean, her partner of six decades.
Speaking with NBC’s Today, Dolly admitted, “Oh, you know what, I get very emotional when people bring it up.”
“But we were together 60 years. I've loved him since I was 18 years old.” The grief of losing her husband, combined with new health struggles, has made this year especially difficult for the beloved singer.
Read next: David Briggs, music legend who helped shape Elvis and Dolly's sound, passes away at 82
Even in the face of challenges, Dolly continues to embody resilience and hope. In her own words, she told fans, “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.”
That unwavering optimism has been central to her life and career, a reminder of why so many people feel deeply connected to her.
And now, in this season of uncertainty, her family and fans alike are holding on to that same faith as they surround her with love and prayers.
Read next: Dolly Parton postpones Las Vegas shows after health update
What are your favorite memories of Dolly Parton’s music and the way she’s touched your life? Share your thoughts and wishes for her recovery in the comments below.
For decades, Dolly Parton has been a steady presence, her voice and spirit woven into the soundtrack of countless lives.
Yet even icons face moments of vulnerability, leaving fans with questions, prayers, and hope for brighter days ahead. Today, Dolly’s family is asking the world to come together in support of the country legend.
One week after Dolly announced the postponement of six Las Vegas shows, her sister Frieda Parton opened up about the singer’s current health challenges.
“Last night, I was up all night praying for my sister, Dolly,” she wrote in a heartfelt online post, adding, “Many of you know she hasn't been feeling her best lately. I truly believe in the power of prayer, and I have been led to ask all of the world that loves her to be prayer warriors and pray with me.”
Frieda ended her message with words of faith, declaring, “She's strong, she's loved. And with all the prayers being lifted for her, I know in my heart she's going to be just fine. Godspeed, my sissy Dolly. We all love you!”
Dolly herself confirmed the news directly to fans last month, explaining that she would need to delay her Dolly: Live in Las Vegas residency until 2026 while she undergoes several medical procedures.

At 79, Dolly Parton is facing an undisclosed health struggle—a prayer request shared by her sister. Image source: WATE 6 On Your Side / YouTube
“I want the fans and public to hear directly from me that, unfortunately, I will need to postpone my upcoming Las Vegas concerts,” she wrote on Instagram.
With her signature humor, she described it as her “100,000-mile check-up” and clarified it was “not [her] usual trip to see [her] plastic surgeon.”
Even in sharing difficult news, Dolly reassured fans that she is not retiring, telling them, “Don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet.”
The outpouring of love has been swift and heartfelt, as fellow stars and fans shared messages of support across social media.
Read next: Reveal Dolly Parton's Surprising Secret for Making the Most Delicious Sugar Cookies You'll Ever Taste!
Singer Brandi Carlile praised her as “beyond reproach,” while Jennifer Nettles encouraged, “Big adventures for you, for sure! Can’t wait to enjoy them with you! In the meantime, tend to yourself and feel better!”
Actress Julianne Hough joined the chorus with heart emojis, and fans echoed similar sentiments, posting messages like “Protect this queen at all costs!” and “Heal strong, Queen Dolly!”
For a woman who has built her career on giving joy, the response highlights how deeply her light is felt around the world.
Health concerns have surfaced for Dolly before, including her recent cancellation of a Dollywood appearance due to kidney stones.
While she appeared in good spirits in a video message at the time, many were reminded of her openness about undergoing kidney stone surgery in the past.
Earlier this year, she also endured the loss of her husband Carl Dean, her partner of six decades.
Speaking with NBC’s Today, Dolly admitted, “Oh, you know what, I get very emotional when people bring it up.”
“But we were together 60 years. I've loved him since I was 18 years old.” The grief of losing her husband, combined with new health struggles, has made this year especially difficult for the beloved singer.
Read next: David Briggs, music legend who helped shape Elvis and Dolly's sound, passes away at 82
Even in the face of challenges, Dolly continues to embody resilience and hope. In her own words, she told fans, “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.”
That unwavering optimism has been central to her life and career, a reminder of why so many people feel deeply connected to her.
And now, in this season of uncertainty, her family and fans alike are holding on to that same faith as they surround her with love and prayers.
Read next: Dolly Parton postpones Las Vegas shows after health update
Key Takeaways
- Dolly Parton’s family is asking fans worldwide to lift her up in prayer as she navigates new health challenges.
- Her sister Frieda shared an emotional message, calling on “prayer warriors” to support Dolly during this difficult time.
- The country icon has postponed her Las Vegas residency until 2026 while undergoing medical procedures but assured fans she is not retiring.
- Messages of love from stars and fans alike continue to pour in, underscoring the lasting bond between Dolly and the people who cherish her.