Dolly Parton will not attend her 80th birthday celebration at the Grand Ole Opry. The event is scheduled for January 17 in Nashville, ahead of her birthday on January 19.
Celebration Details
Opry members Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, Rhonda Vincent, and songwriter Trannie Anderson are scheduled to perform in her honor. Parton communicated via an Instagram video that she appreciated the celebration and would send her love, expressing a wish to be present.
The Grand Ole Opry account confirmed her absence but stated the event would include:
- Birthday party cupcakes
- Specialty "Dolly-themed" drinks
- A large birthday card for fans to sign
- Tributes dedicated to the country singer
Previous Absences and Health
This announcement follows Parton's postponement of Las Vegas concerts and her absence from the Governors Awards gala. In September 2025, Parton postponed her Las Vegas residency from December to September 2026, citing "health challenges" and the need for "a few procedures" to "get show ready." She also missed the Governors Awards gala on November 16, where she was honored with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. Parton stated she is not quitting her career but believes she needs to "slow down right now."