Dolly Parton will not attend her own birthday celebration at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry, where the annual Opry Goes Dolly event is set to take place on January 17, 2024. The country music icon, who turns 80 two days later, shared her disappointment in a heartfelt video released by the venue.
Parton addressed her fans, saying, “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.” She expressed regret about her absence, adding, “Some of my favorite memories happened right here on stage at the Grand Ole Opry.” The beloved singer concluded her message by wishing attendees “the best night ever,” despite not being present.
The upcoming event will feature performances by notable artists, including Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, Rhonda Vincent, and Trannie Anderson. Fans can expect a nostalgic atmosphere, as the Grand Ole Opry encourages attendees to embrace the vibrant style of earlier decades, promising an entertaining experience reminiscent of when Parton’s hit “9 to 5” first captured audiences. Ticket prices for the event vary widely, ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.
Parton’s cancellation comes after ongoing concerns about her health. In October 2023, she postponed her first Las Vegas residency in over three decades, citing “health challenges.” The 9 to 5 star shared through social media, “My doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures.” She emphasized her commitment to delivering a top-quality performance, stating that she did not want to perform unless she could fully engage with her audience.
The health concerns were further magnified when Parton’s younger sister, Frieda, called on fans to pray for the singer, noting, “Many of you know she hasn’t been feeling her best lately.” In response, Parton reassured her supporters in a subsequent video that while she has experienced some health issues, she is on the mend. “I know lately everybody thinks that I am sicker than I am,” she remarked, humorously adding, “Do I look sick to you? I’m working hard here!”
Parton acknowledged that some of her health problems stemmed from neglecting her own well-being while caring for her late husband, Carl Dean, who passed away in March 2023. She revealed, “I let a lot of things go that I should have been taking care of,” and wanted her fans to know, “I’m not dying.”
As she approaches this milestone birthday, Parton remains optimistic and forward-looking. In a recent interview with People, she stated, “People say, ‘Well, you’re going to be 80 years old.’ Well, so what? Look at all I’ve done in 80 years. I feel like I’m just getting started.” Her goddaughter, Miley Cyrus, echoed this enthusiasm, affirming that Parton is eager to return to work and continue sharing her talents with the world.
Dolly Parton’s legacy continues to resonate deeply with fans, and despite her absence from the Grand Ole Opry celebration, her spirit and contributions to music remain unwavering.
