Dolly Parton’s incredible life in pictures as the country music icon dies aged 80
The world is mourning the loss of country music star, cultural icon, philanthropist, actress and author Dolly Parton. This is her incredible story in pictures.
Parton was born in Pittman Centre, Tennessee on January 19, 1946. She was the fourth-eldest child of 12, born to parents Avie Lee Caroline and Robert Lee Parton Sr. Her family had very little money, something which fuelled her charitable endeavours later on in life.
Attribution: Supplied
Parton’s rose to fame came after her debut single Dumb Blonde charted in 1966. She followed it up with her debut solo album Hello, I’m Dolly in 1967.
Attribution: Redferns
Parton formed a duo with Porter Wagoner starring in The Porter Wagoner Show from 1967 to 1974. The duo catapulted her to stardom, making her a household name.
Attribution: RCA Records and Tapes
Parton was so famous that her impact even reached the President of the United States at the time, President Jimmy Carter.
Attribution: AP Photo/Harvey Georges
She also starred in several films. Her most famous role was Doralee Rhodes in the 1980 film 9 to 5. She also released a song of the same name, which quickly became a smash hit.
Attribution: Getty
Parton starred in the film alongside Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda.
Attribution: AP Photo/Richard Drew
Parton met her husband Carl Dean early in her career. The pair were together for 60 years before he passed away in 2025.
Attribution: NNA
Parton posed for the October issue of Playboy in 1978. It is highly regarded as one of the most iconic playboy shoots of all time.
Attribution: Playboy
Parton was beloved by everyone, including fellow musician Kenny Rogers. The pair often performed together.
Attribution: Fairfax archieve 
By the late ’90s Parton had already cemented herself as one of the greatest country stars to ever live.
Attribution: AP Photo/Mark HumprheyView more galleries
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