Published: 00:44 BST, 26 August 2026 | Updated: 10:35 BST, 26 August 2026
Dolly Parton's private cancer battle has been revealed following the heartbreaking news of her death at the age of 80 on Tuesday.
The country music legend's death shocked the world and came after months of health woes that saw her pull out of a string of public appearances, fueling fan fears for her wellbeing.
Those close to the singer said she had both become increasingly reclusive and secretive about her own ill health in recent months.
And now, Parton's representatives revealed she died following a 'brief battle with cancer' in a statement to People, though they did not disclose what type of cancer it was.
'Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched,' the statement read.
'After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones.'
Dolly Parton in 2016…. her private cancer battle has been revealed following the heartbreaking news of her death at the age of 80 on Tuesday
Her representatives also highlighted the extraordinary reach of Parton's 'unmatched generosity,' noting she touched the lives of countless people she would never meet and was always ready to 'offer a helping hand.'
'Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact.'
Despite her cancer battle, Parton remained optimistic and leaned on her deep Christian faith for strength in the last few months.
'From the time that Dolly Parton was born, she was surrounded by faith, by God, by Jesus. Her grandfather was a preacher. Even in her Broadway show, she shows how much faith means to her,' a source told People.
'And so it's natural for people of faith to believe that God is in control. It doesn't matter what doctors may say, people may say. It's not over until God says it's over. I think she lived every day working and as long as God hadn't called her home, she was here and she had more work to do.'
Parton previously told the outlet that she prayed every day in a 2020 interview: 'To me, it's my salvation. It helps me through everything.'
Following news of Parton's secret cancer battle, fans on social media mourned the singer.
