Dolly Parton says she is recovering well from ongoing health issues but will step back from live performances for now, offering fans a candid look at her condition and future plans.
In a video posted Monday, the 80-year-old country music icon shared that her treatment is working and her health is improving each day. She did not name a specific illness but pointed to long-term challenges affecting her immune and digestive systems. She also acknowledged a history of kidney stones.
The update brought both relief and disappointment for fans. Parton confirmed she will not return to the stage immediately, explaining that her medication can cause dizziness.
“And of course, I can’t be dizzy carrying around banjos, guitars and such on five-inch heels,” Parton said in the video. “And you know that I’m gonna be wearing them.”
Despite the pause in performances, Parton remains active behind the scenes. She is preparing to open a museum and hotel in Nashville later this year. At the same time, she continues work on her upcoming Broadway production, “DOLLY: A True Original Musical,” expected to debut in New York during the fall or early winter season.
The update also came on a personal note. Monday marked the anniversary of the death of her husband, Carl Dean, a moment she described as emotionally difficult.
“I will always love him, and I’ll always miss him, but you would be surprised at how much your love and concern meant to me during that time,” she said, thanking fans for their continued support. “You have been a big part of my healing.”
Parton ended her message with optimism, sharing reassurance from her doctors that her condition is manageable.
“Just think of me as like an old classic car,” she said. “Once restored, [it] can be better than ever.”