Several celebrities and personalities are paying tribute to American music legend Dolly Parton following her passing at the age of 80.
Following the news of her death, stars from the music, film and television industries took to social media to remember the “Jolene” singer and celebrate the legacy she left behind.
Sex and the City star Sarah Jessica Parker expressed her grief despite never having met Dolly personally.
“I never met @dollyparton but my gosh, did I love her. I don’t think any of us had to know her to love her. One of the greatest this country ever produced. Legend. For real. Forever. And always advocating for those she knew and understood needed a champion. What a loss. But aren’t we so lucky,so fortunate for the endless gifts she shared. With the world. Godspeed and RIP. You will be terribly missed,” she wrote.
READ: Sabrina Carpenter pens tribute for 'Please Please Please' collaborator Dolly Parton
Gwen Stefani shared a video of one of Dolly's appearances on The Voice as she remembered the country music icon.
“So heartbroken to hear about the loss of a true original and forever one of a kind 🤍 Such an inspiration to us all. I was so lucky to work with you. There will never be another Dolly 🕊️,” Gwen said.
The Devil Wears Prada star Anne Hathaway reflected on the countless gifts Dolly left behind, from her music and stories to her memorable performances.
“I know this is hard but just think: she left us so much to work with. She shared with us so many melodies, so many lyrics, so many stories, so many jokes, so much laughter, so many iconic performances but most of all, so many shining examples of how to be a treasure of humanity,” Anne wrote.
“She more than deserves her rest, and now it’s up to us to do our best follow in her brilliant, adorable, one-of-a-kind, bedazzled footsteps so that we still feel that magic in our world. Dolly, you have always been one of my angels. I will always love you,” Anne added.
Singer Katy Perry remembered Dolly as an example of a woman who defied stereotypes throughout her career.
“Like the rest of the world, my heart sank seeing the news of dear Dolly’s passing. She meant so much to so many people for so long,” Katy said.
The pop star also recalled meeting and performing with Dolly several times, describing her as a joyful and inspiring person.
“If there’s someone you wanna look up to and model your life after, it’s Dolly. Dolly was glam, funny, and kind as fuck. Her star will forever shine bright and I bet you she’s already remodeling them pearly gates with rhinestones. We will always love you Dolly!”
READ: Taylor Swift pays tribute to Dolly Parton: 'Her legacy will be an everlasting one'
Celine Dion celebrated Dolly's warmth, generosity and contribution to music, saying: “Dolly…you were pure light, with a kind heart and a generous spirit. We will now be missing one of the most joyful voices this world has ever known. Thank you for the music, the laughter, and the love you gave us all. We will always love you. Rest in peace, Dolly.”
Cyndi Lauper also mourned the loss of Dolly, remembering not only her talent but also the way she used her success to help others.
“She was not only a great singer/song writer/actress/TV star, Dolly also lived her art. She used her art, her fame and her money to help so many people. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve thought to myself, “What would Dolly do?” She was a great role model for all of us. I hope she is in a place with Carl, her Mom and Dad and all her loved ones who’ve passed. She will be so missed. Rest in Peace Dolly,” said Cyndi.
Purple Hearts star Sofia Carson shared a heartfelt message for Dolly, writing: “Goodbye, Dearest Dolly. Tonight, the world cries. . . As we look up to the sky, We wish for you Joy & Happiness. But above all. . . We Will Always Love You, Dolly. Forever and Always.”
Blake Shelton, who also worked with Dolly on The Voice, remembered her as exactly the kind of person fans imagined her to be: “I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is. It was like being with the funnest, most loving, most caring and closest member of your family. Truly a loss for the entire world. We love you Dolly.”
Model and television personality Heidi Klum also shared her memories of Dolly: “You were an idol to me and so many other people around the world - your generosity and talent are unparalleled. It was an honor to share a couch with you and to learn how to use my nails to make music. I will always love you. ❤️”
Country singer Carrie Underwood remembered Dolly for her faith, kindness and ability to make people feel special.
“She was the epitome of faith, grace, talent, beauty and humor. She had a humble heart for Jesus and made everyone around her feel special. She was probably the one person on planet Earth that everyone loved and could agree on. She was a one of one and no one will ever come close. It’s alright to be sad that this world lost a legend, but heaven gained an angel. Well done, good and faithful Dolly. Welcome home. ❤️🦋”
Billy Ray Cyrus shared a more personal memory of Dolly, recalling how she had been part of his life since childhood.
“I have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start. Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TV’s, right in our living rooms,” he said.
Billy also shared a message he recently received from Dolly: “Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart. I will always love her in the same way... with my whole heart … and I always will.”
Earlier stars like Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter and Eminem also penned their message to Dolly while honoring her legacy and tribute in the music industry.