Dolly Parton was noticeably absent during the recent announcement of a new attraction at Dollywood due to her recovery from a kidney stone. The renowned country star, aged 79, could not attend the unveiling of the Night Flight Expedition ride at her theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., but she made sure to address her fans through a video message during the event on Wednesday, Sept. 17. Parton candidly shared, “Hello Dollywood! It’s me,” and explained the reason for her absence, stating, “I had a little problem.”
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Parton went on to reveal the underlying health issue that prevented her from gracing the event in person, saying, “I had a kidney stone that was causing me a lot of problems, turned out it’d given me an infection, and the doctor said ‘You don’t need to be traveling right this minute, so you need a few days to get better.’” Despite her physical absence, Parton assured her fans that she was there with them in spirit, expressing, “I was looking so forward to it.”
The Night Flight Expedition ride is set to debut at Dollywood next year, promising an exhilarating experience for visitors. Despite missing the attraction announcement, 2025 has been a busy year for Parton as a musical based on her life premiered in Nashville in January with plans for a Broadway run in the near future. Additionally, she is gearing up for a Las Vegas residency scheduled for December.
In the midst of her professional commitments, Parton has also been processing personal challenges. Following the passing of her husband of 60 years, Carl Thomas Dean, in March 2025, she has put some creative projects on hold. Reflecting on her current emotional state, Parton shared, “I can’t afford the luxury of, you know, getting that emotional right now.” She acknowledged the impact of her loss on her creative endeavours, indicating that she is focusing on other aspects of her life for the time being.
Parton remains resilient in the face of adversity, hinting at future creative pursuits while honouring the need to prioritise her emotional well-being. With a remarkable career spanning decades, she continues to inspire fans worldwide with her music and unwavering spirit. As she navigates both personal and professional challenges, Dolly Parton’s enduring legacy shines brightly, resonating with audiences across generations.
In conclusion, Dolly Parton’s absence from the Dollywood attraction announcement serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of prioritising one’s health and well-being. Despite facing setbacks, Parton’s resilience and determination are a testament to her indomitable spirit. As she embarks on new chapters in her career and personal life, fans eagerly anticipate her future endeavours and continue to be inspired by her enduring charm and grace.