Dolly Parton Announces She Can’t Attend Her 80th Birthday Opry Celebration in Heartfelt Message: ‘I’ll Be Sending You All My Love’
Dolly Parton revealed she won’t be present at the Grand Ole Opry’s 80th birthday celebration for her
“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 said in an Instagram video
The Grand Ole Opry celebration for Parton will take place on January 17th
Dolly Parton unfortunately won’t be able to attend her 80th birthday celebration at the Grand Ole Opry.
A Bittersweet Announcement
On Thursday, January 8th, the country legend shared a heartfelt message on the venue’s Instagram page, expressing her gratitude and revealing she wouldn’t be present at the event, which is set to take place on January 17th. (Parton will celebrate her 80th birthday on January 19th.)
“Well hey there Grand Ole Opry family,” Parton, 79, began the message. “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 continued, “Some of my favorite memories happened right here on stage 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.”
Parton concluded the message by telling her fans to “have the best night ever.”
The Celebration Details
In the clip, the “Jolene” hitmaker appears in a white button-down with yellow lace trim that matches her jeans.
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“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 🦋,” the post’s caption read.
It also noted that there would be an “80 Years of Song” retail collection in collaboration with Dolly herself that could be pre-ordered.
In the comment section, the venue clarified that Parton would not be in attendance.
Star-Studded Lineup
Opry members including Vince Gill, Lainey Wilson and Rhonda Vincent, as well as songwriter Trannie Anderson, are set to perform with other artists to be announced.
“While Dolly is unable to attend in person, we’re looking forward to honoring her through song and fun all day long,” the Grand Ole Opry account wrote, noting that there would be birthday party cupcakes, a “larger-than-life birthday card for fans to sign,” photo opportunities with a Parton impersonator, “Dolly-themed drinks” and tributes.
Health Considerations
News of Parton revealing she won’t be in attendance at her 80th birthday celebration at the Grand Ole Opry comes months after she revealed she would be postponing her Las Vegas residency from December to September 2026 following a kidney stone-related infection.
A source close to Parton said in an August 2025 PEOPLE cover story that “Dolly is getting better every day.”
“She is at home taking care of herself while many friends and family visit her,” the source added of the “9 to 5” artist. “In true Dolly spirit she has already started decorating for the holidays her favorite time of year.”
Her Perspective on Turning 80
“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,” said Parton. “I know that sounds stupid, but unless my health gives way, which right now I seem to be doing fine … I think there’s a lot to be said about age.”
She added that she wasn’t “thinking about” getting “old.”
A Legacy Celebrated
While fans will undoubtedly miss Parton’s presence at the Grand Ole Opry celebration, the event promises to be a fitting tribute to the country music icon’s remarkable eight-decade journey. Her influence on country music, philanthropy, and popular culture has been immeasurable, and the gathering of fellow artists to honor her legacy speaks to the profound impact she’s had on the industry.
The Grand Ole Opry has been central to Parton’s career since she became a member in 1969, making this milestone birthday celebration particularly meaningful despite her physical absence. Her message to fans filled with warmth, gratitude, and love captures the spirit that has endeared her to millions throughout her legendary career.
As Parton approaches this significant milestone birthday, her positive outlook and continued creative ambitions demonstrate why she remains an inspiration to fans and fellow artists alike. While she won’t be there in person, her presence will undoubtedly be felt throughout the celebration as her music, legacy, and indomitable spirit fill the Opry House.