Dolly Parton's cause of death has been revealed following the heartbreaking news that the country music legend died at the age of 80.
Parton's representatives confirmed that she died on Tuesday, August 25, after a "brief battle" with cancer. She passed away at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, surrounded by loved ones. The specific type of cancer has not been disclosed.
The revelation comes just days after Parton had spoken publicly about her recent health struggles.
The singer had acknowledged that she had been dealing with health issues and had recently taken time away from some of her professional commitments. She was admitted to hospital on August 21, just four days before her death.
Despite her health problems, Parton remained determined to keep working.
In a recent interview, she spoke about having many things she still wanted to accomplish. She had continued to discuss upcoming projects and remained focused on her music and other creative work even while dealing with personal grief and health challenges.
Parton's death was announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, who shared an emotional message on behalf of the family.
Her passing has triggered an enormous wave of tributes from fans, musicians and celebrities around the world.
Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Paul McCartney, Eminem and numerous other stars have paid tribute to Parton, remembering not only her extraordinary music career but also her generosity and influence.
Parton leaves behind one of the most remarkable careers in entertainment history.
She wrote more than 3,000 songs and became famous for timeless hits including "Jolene," "9 to 5" and "I Will Always Love You." Her career eventually expanded beyond music into acting, business and philanthropy.
Her generosity was particularly important to her legacy. Through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, millions of children received free books, while she also supported medical research and numerous charitable causes.
Parton also experienced profound personal loss before her own death. Her husband, Carl Dean, died in March 2025 after almost six decades of marriage.
Now, fans are mourning the woman who spent much of her life bringing music, laughter and hope to others.
Dolly Parton's representatives said she died surrounded by people who loved her, bringing an end to an extraordinary life that reached far beyond country music.
Her songs, charitable work and unmistakable personality have left a legacy that will continue to influence generations to come.