Dolly Parton, the iconic country music legend known for her exceptional talent and larger-than-life personality, passed away on August 25, 2023, at the age of 80. Her legacy, which includes a devoted fan base and numerous accolades, is especially intertwined with that of Miley Cyrus, her goddaughter. The bond between them not only spanned the musical world but also extended into a deeply personal relationship.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Miley-Cyrus-Dolly-Parton-120625-02-e99bc3a4b71f45c5b985e853e889d80a.jpg)
Parton’s close connection to the Cyrus family began in 1992, when Billy Ray Cyrus, Miley’s father, chose her to be Miley’s godmother after touring with her. This pivotal decision was explained by Parton during an appearance on The Howard Stern Show, where she conveyed the significance of their relationship in both personal and professional arenas. Over the years, Parton and Cyrus showcased their chemistry on numerous occasions, frequently collaborating on stage and participating in high-profile awards shows together.
In a heartfelt reflection on her goddaughter, Parton described Cyrus as an inventive artist constantly pushing the boundaries of her creative expression. In an interview with PEOPLE in November 2022, she shared her admiration by stating, “I love her. She’s always trying new things. Some of them work great, some of them don’t, but she’s learned a lot.” This sentiment encapsulates not only Parton’s affection but also her supportive nature, encouraging Cyrus to take risks in her career.
The revelation of their deep familial connection came in September 2023, when genetic research indicated that Parton and Cyrus were actually seventh cousins, once removed. This news further solidified their bond, leading Parton to remark, “Well, we’re so close, Miley and I. I would’ve thought we would’ve been at least third cousins, 10 times removed.” Such discoveries reflect a beautifully intertwined history that adds another layer to their already vibrant relationship.
The passing of Parton prompted many tributes from those who cherished her, including a moving Instagram post from Billy Ray Cyrus. He expressed his love for Parton, noting the heartfelt messages they shared over the years. “Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart,” he wrote. “I will always love her in the same way… with my whole heart… and I always will.” This heartfelt tribute serves as a testament to the emotional connection Parton forged with those in her life.
Cyrus’s career was once again linked to Parton’s legacy when she starred as the titular character in the Disney Channel series “Hannah Montana” from 2006 to 2011. Parton made special guest appearances as Aunt Dolly, showcasing their genuine bond on the small screen. Reflecting on this experience, Parton recalled how Cyrus advocated for her inclusion in the show, leading to a refreshing collaboration that introduced Parton’s charm to a younger audience.
Their joint performances throughout the years also contributed to their public personas. Notably, in 2010, the two artists sang the classic “Jolene” during a Hallmark special celebrating the 25th anniversary of Parton’s theme park, Dollywood. The song, originally released in 1974, became a staple in Cyrus’s repertoire, underscoring her appreciation for Parton’s musical contributions.
In subsequent years, they continued to collaborate, with notable performances on platforms such as “The Voice” and at significant events like MusiCares and the Grammy Awards. At the MusiCares Person of the Year gala in 2019, Cyrus poignantly described Parton as “not just my fairy godmother, she’s everyone’s.” Their mutual respect was palpable as they took the stage together again during the Grammys shortly after the gala, further solidifying their celebrated partnership in music.
In recent years, their bond remained evident in projects like the holiday special “Dolly Parton’s Mountain Magic Christmas,” which featured both artists alongside a slew of other celebrity guests. They additionally made headlines by co-hosting Miley’s New Year’s Eve Party in Miami, where they dazzled in matching outfits and thrilled audiences with their performances.
The legacy of Dolly Parton will live on not only through her music and philanthropic endeavours but also in the hearts of her loved ones, particularly Miley Cyrus. Their relationship reflects a unique melding of family and artistry, exemplifying the warmth and encouragement that can exist between generations of artists. As the world mourns the loss of this extraordinary woman, her influence will undoubtedly continue to resonate through the music industry and beyond.