**Miley Cyrus Mourns the Loss of Godmother Dolly Parton After Her Death**
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Dolly Parton, the iconic singer and songwriter, passed away on August 25 at the age of 80 following a brief battle with cancer, as confirmed by her representatives. The news was shared by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, via an Instagram video, leading to an outpouring of tributes from fans and friends alike. Among those expressing their grief was singer Miley Cyrus, who shared a particularly poignant bond with Parton as her godmother.
Parton’s relationship with Cyrus dates back to the early 1990s, when she was asked by Miley’s father, Billy Ray Cyrus, to be the godmother of his soon-to-be-born daughter. At the time, Billy Ray was enjoying a significant rise in his career thanks to the success of his hit song “Achy Breaky Heart” and was on tour with Parton. The two musicians quickly developed a close friendship based on shared backgrounds, with Billy hailing from Kentucky and Parton from Tennessee. When Billy proposed the idea, Parton happily accepted, thus beginning their profound connection.
Over the years, Dolly and Miley’s bond blossomed into a unique relationship akin to family. Their professional collaborations further solidified this bond, with both artists appearing together on the Disney Channel series *Hannah Montana*. Miley spoke fondly about how Parton’s involvement in the show introduced her to a new generation of fans. “She said she felt like a proud mama,” Miley reflected, admiring Parton for her contributions to her career and her life.
In a recent tribute following Parton’s passing, Miley expressed her deep sorrow through an emotional Instagram post. “The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share,” she wrote, emphasising the private nature of their most cherished moments together. Miley described how those intimate memories would remain hidden “behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts.” She added that she could feel Parton’s presence guiding her, vowing to honour her legacy through music.
Despite not being related by blood, it was discovered that Parton and Miley actually share a distant familial connection. A 2024 interview revealed that they are seventh cousins once removed, descending from a common ancestor, John Brickey, who was born in Virginia in 1740. Parton expressed amazement upon learning this and playfully noted how surprised she was not to have assumed a closer relation.
Throughout her life, Dolly Parton was vocal about her pride for her goddaughter. In an interview shortly before her death, she referred to Miley as her “little sweetheart” and praised her intelligence and talent. “I think Miley is a spectacular human being and an amazing talent,” Parton remarked. Their musical collaborations included a duet on Miley’s song “Wrecking Ball,” featured on Parton’s rock album released in 2023, exemplifying the ongoing creative synergy between the two performers.
Their friendship came full circle when they co-hosted Miley’s New Year’s Eve special in 2023, where Parton delightedly shared her love for Miley in front of a live audience. Their shared performances of songs like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You” at various events, including the Grammy Awards, showcased their mutual admiration and professional chemistry. They both enjoyed working together, further solidifying their personal and artistic connection.
Miley, reflecting on her relationship with Parton, has often referred to the country music legend as her idol. In an essay for Time, she described Parton as not only an inspiration due to her illustrious career but also for her steadfast morals and values. Miley occasionally turned to Parton for advice, recounting moments when Parton encouraged her to embrace her individuality, instilling confidence in the young star.
As the world mourns Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus continues to celebrate their powerful bond. In her heartfelt tribute, Cyrus underscored the lasting impact Parton had on her life and career, pledging to carry forward her spirit through her music. “What I KNOW is Dolly would want me to feel it, write a song about it, and then continue on and be strong,” Miley concluded, affirming her commitment to honouring her beloved godmother’s legacy.
Dolly Parton leaves behind a lasting legacy in music and culture, touching the lives of many, particularly her beloved goddaughter. Miley’s emotional tributes serve as a reminder of their remarkable relationship and the impact of Parton’s nurturing guidance on Cyrus’s life.