Celebrities pay tribute to Dolly Parton amid death, aged 80

Fans are mourning the American singer, known for her hit songs including Jolene and 9-to-5, as tributes pour in for the star after the announcement made by her nephew, Bryan Seaver.

President Donald Trump has asked for all American flags to be lowered for a week of mourning (Image: AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Donald Trump has ordered the lowering of American flags throughout the United States for one week in tribute to Dolly.

Posting on Truth Social, he said: “Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people.

“There has never been anyone like her, and never will. In her honour, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you. President DONALD J. Trump.”

Graham Norton shared a picture of the pair together on Instagram; in the caption he said: “Such heartbreaking news.

“I only met and worked with Dolly a few times so it’s hard to explain the bond I felt. She was the best of us and lived her life in a way we should all aspire to. Her talent and humanity were beyond compare. I will always miss you.”

The heartbreaking announcement was made today (Tuesday, August 25), shocking fans across the globe.

Graham Norton pays “heartbrekaing” tribute (Image: BBC)

Dolly connected to Oxfordshire through her children’s literacy charity, Imagination Library.

Partnering with local organisations, it provides free monthly books for young children across the county.

Her hit 9 to 5 musical has also been staged at the New Theatre, as well as productions by groups such as the Abingdon and Witney College.

The news comes after her husband, Carl Dean, sadly died in March 2025, aged 82, after 60 years of marriage.

Concerns about her health surfaced last autumn after she postponed her Las Vegas residency.

She was originally due to perform six shows at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in December, but was forced to postpone them due to unspecified “health challenges”.

Her sister asked for prayers, but Dolly was quick to shut down speculation, posting a video with the harrowing caption “I ain’t dead yet”.

She added: “I’m not ready to die yet. I don’t think God is through with me. And I ain’t done working.”

Earlier this month, she missed the opening night of a new attraction at her Tennessee theme park after experiencing dizziness and dehydration, with doctors advising her against travel.

In the aftermath of the cancelled appearance, she told People: “I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn’t pay attention to when I was watching over Carl.”