Khloé Kardashian has expressed her deep sorrow over the passing of country music icon Dolly Parton, who died at the age of 80 on August 25. In a heartfelt tribute shared on her Instagram Stories, Kardashian remembered Parton as a “once-in-a-lifetime soul” whose impact on the world was profound.
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The reality television star had long been an admirer of Parton, even celebrating her own 40th birthday with a Dolly-themed party in 2024. Following the news of Parton’s death, Kardashian posted a touching video message from the singer that was sent to her for the birthday celebration. In the message, Parton expressed her regret at not being able to attend the party, adding a playful note about how Kardashian had purchased all her cake mixes.
“Hey Khloé! Somebody’s having a party and I’m not gonna be there, and I’m sorry about that,” Parton stated in the video. “Thanks for inviting me, though. I know you’re gonna have a good time, and I would’ve baked you a cake, but you bought all my damn cake mixes. You have fun!”
In her caption accompanying the video, Kardashian admitted to being overwhelmed with emotion, writing, “Ugh I could cry hysterically.” The post also featured images from her birthday celebration, including a cake adorned with Dolly Parton’s famous cake mixes, which had been a central part of the festivities.
Since the announcement of Parton’s passing, Kardashian has continued to pay tribute to the beloved musician. In an emotional message shared on her Instagram, she wrote, “I swear I believed Mrs Dolly was immortal. Some people are so extraordinary, their existence feels almost impossible. Dolly was one of those people. A once-in-a-lifetime soul.” She went on to highlight Parton’s brilliance, noting, “A woman whose light, heart, talent and humanity changed this world forever.”
Kardashian reflected on the incomparable experience of having met Parton, expressing gratitude for their time together. “To have admired her was a gift. To have met her, spent time in her presence, and somehow been lucky enough that Dolly Parton knew my name… I will never have words big enough for what that means to me,” she added.
Moreover, Kardashian had previously featured Parton on her podcast, “Khloé in Wonder Land”, where the country star shared insights about her almost sixty-year marriage to Carl Dean, who passed away in March 2025. In the episode, Parton spoke candidly about her relationship with Dean, revealing how their contrasting personalities complemented one another despite their differences.
“Certainly, some personalities are just great for each other,” Parton reflected. “We were together 61 years. We were just so different, but we were so similar.”
Days before her death, Parton spoke to PEOPLE about facing health challenges, admitting that she had let her personal health take a back seat while caring for her late husband. “Even though I’m still healin’, I’m still workin’! You know me — as I’ve often said — I’ve dreamed myself into a corner and I still have so many things I want to achieve,” she shared, showcasing her enduring drive and passion for her career.
As fans and fellow celebrities around the world continue to mourn Dolly Parton, Khloé Kardashian’s heartfelt tribute stands out as a testament to the immense influence that the singer had on many lives, not just as a musician but as a beacon of kindness and inspiration. The legacy left behind by Parton, filled with her songs, stories, and wisdom, will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.