Billy Ray Cyrus Reflects on Dolly Parton’s Legacy One Month After Her Passing
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Billy-Ray-Cyrus-Dolly-Parton-092526-ac195784975c4a7f8568d2e718d2e44e.jpg)
One month after the passing of country music icon Dolly Parton, fellow musician Billy Ray Cyrus has opened up about his enduring friendship with her. While Cyrus recently marked his 65th birthday—a day that should have been filled with joy—it instead became a moment of reflection as he and fans worldwide mourned the loss of the beloved singer and songwriter.
In an interview with PEOPLE, which took place on 25 September, Cyrus expressed that he views his life in terms of “A.D.”—After Dolly. He explained how he is coming to terms with a world now devoid of her presence, remarking, “Her light still shines. That’s the beauty of it.” Despite the sadness of their separation, he emphasised the importance of celebrating Parton’s life and legacy moving forward.
Earlier that day, Cyrus received a delightful surprise when a long-lost interview surfaced. In this archival footage, Parton had conducted an interview with him at Dollywood in the early 1990s, during which their friendship blossomed while touring together. The clip, originally aired on the Today show, captures the playful chemistry between the two artists, particularly when Parton teased that they may have been romantic partners had circumstances been different.
Looking back on that footage felt especially poignant for Cyrus. He shared it with his daughter Miley, who fondly remembers her godmother. Miley commented on Parton’s appearance, saying she looked “so pretty.” For Cyrus, this amusing glimpse into their history served as both a light-hearted distraction and a heartwarming tribute as he continued to grieve.
Reflecting on his memories with Parton, Cyrus recalled a standout day when she visited him and his band Brother Clyde during a recording session in Burbank, California. Not only did she surprise them with a homemade dinner of fried chicken, gravy, and biscuits, but she also lent her voice to one of their songs. “It was truly a wonderful day,” he shared. “She kept us laughing the whole time.”
Cyrus described Parton as a remarkable personality, likening her presence to “Mother Teresa meets Elvis Presley meets Marilyn Monroe.” He believes that she possessed a starlight that transcended earthly measures, stating, “She was a star of a magnitude beyond this planet.” Her vibrant spirit and charisma were part of what made her such a beloved figure, not just among fans, but also among her peers in the music industry.
Emphasising the celebratory aspect of remembrance, Cyrus noted, “It’s a celebration, and that’s what today is.” He emphasised how Parton spread love and humanity throughout her life, approaching everyone she met with grace and kindness. This dedication to uplifting others is a cornerstone of her legacy that Cyrus hopes to carry forward.
In a moving gesture, Cyrus also shared a cherished letter from Parton, which he considers one of his most prized possessions. In the letter, she expressed pride in their collaboration and joked about her own bashfulness when they first met. The affection expressed in her words only serves to illustrate the depth of the bond they shared, showcasing Parton’s heartwarming nature.
As Billy Ray Cyrus continues to navigate the profound impact of Parton’s absence, he is determined to honour her legacy by embracing the joy and laughter she brought into the lives of those around her. Her memory, he asserts, will continue to illuminate the paths of many, a testament to a life lived in service of love and compassion.