Dolly Parton Won’t Be Attending 80th Birthday Party

When you’re Dolly Parton, even your absence makes headlines. As she approaches her milestone 80th birthday, fans were surprised to learn that Parton won’t be attending the big celebration planned in her honor.   

The star-studded birthday event set to commemorate the Queen of Country’s life, career, and legacy will be celebrated without her. The decision to skip the party was because of her health. In a video posted by the Grand Ole Opry, the music icon explained her absence from her birthday show, scheduled on January 17.  

Parton said, “Well, hey there, Grand Ole Opry family. I just wanted to say how much it means to me that you’re all coming together again this year to celebrate my big ol’ birthday with some of my songs. Some of my favorite memories happened right here onstage at the Grand Ole Opry, and I wish I could be there in person, but I’ll be sending you all my love for sure. So you have the best night ever.”  

Even in the absence of Parton, the star-studded event will feature Opry members like Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, Rhonda Vincent, Trannie Anderson, and more performers to be announced soon. The Opry announced, “The Queen of Country is turning 80, and @laineywilson, @vincegillofficial, @rhondavincent, @trannieanderson, and more are coming together to celebrate @dollyparton's iconic ’80s era on January 17 at the Opry House. Grab your tickets to Opry Goes Dolly and get ready to throw it back to when the hair was bigger, the clothes were brighter, and “9 to 5” hit the silver screen!️ Ticket link in bio.”  

Opry also informed fans that a “retail collection in collaboration with Dolly herself” is available for pre-order.