**Dolly Parton Provides Health Update Ahead of New Nashville Museum Opening**
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Dolly Parton, the iconic country singer and songwriter, has revealed that despite facing some health challenges, she remains active and is preparing to debut her highly anticipated SongTeller Hotel in Nashville in September 2026. The 80-year-old star recently discussed her health condition and future projects during an interview with PEOPLE.
Parton’s health concerns come in the wake of her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, passing away in March 2025, at the age of 82. In her statement, Parton admitted that while she is working through some ongoing health issues, she has sought to keep herself occupied. “I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn’t pay attention to when I was watching over Carl,” she shared.
Reflecting on her experiences, Parton recalled previous health setbacks, including a difficult period in the early 1980s when she was notably unwell due to female health issues. “It’s not like I haven’t been through hard times with my health,” she noted, pointing out that the constant connection afforded by social media often amplifies personal struggles in ways that were less common in years past.
The update on her health comes shortly after the singer made a virtual appearance at her amusement park Dollywood for the opening of its new ride, NightFlight Expedition. Parton explained to fans that her doctors advised her against travelling to the event due to her health concerns, including dizziness and dehydration. “If your doctor tells you, ‘You ain’t traveling this week,’ you ain’t traveling this week,” she quipped.
Despite these setbacks, the singer’s determination to pursue her passions remains undeterred. Recently, Parton announced the plans for her Life of Many Colors Museum in Nashville, which is set to celebrate her remarkable career and life. According to the museum’s website, it is poised to be the largest exhibit dedicated to her legacy globally.
Parton expressed her excitement about the museum, which was inspired by a chance discovery of a suitable location in downtown Nashville. “I knew I wanted to do something special in Nashville, and until I saw this building, nothing ever hit me as the right thing to do,” she explained. The museum will occupy the third floor of the building, which will feature her new SongTeller Hotel.
In addition to her museum project, Parton is also expanding her entrepreneurial ventures by collaborating with Purina to develop a new line of dog treats. Furthermore, she is particularly enthusiastic about launching her coffee brand, Cup of Ambition Coffee, in partnership with Community Coffee. This venture is particularly close to her heart, stemming from a lyric she penned over forty years ago in her hit song ‘9 to 5’.
“I’ve had this dream for over 40 years,” Parton stated, adding that the coffee product is set to be available online for nationwide shipping starting in September.
As Parton continues to navigate her health challenges, she remains a figure of resilience and creativity, illustrating a spirited dedication to both her craft and her community. Her undertaking in Nashville will enable fans to connect with her life story in an unprecedented way, further solidifying her status as a beloved icon in the music industry.
With new projects and a commitment to her health, Dolly Parton exemplifies enduring passion and determination, promising to bring more joy and inspiration to her fans for years to come.