'I will always love you': Beyoncé, Sabrina Carpenter, other celebrities honor Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton’s death brought an outpouring of love and tributes from celebrities across music, film and entertainment. The country music legend, philanthropist and actor died Tuesday at 80, leaving behind a career and legacy that touched generations.

Several stars, including Billy Ray Cyrus, Miley Cyrus, Kristin Chenoweth, Sabrina Carpenter and Beyoncé, reflected on their personal connections with Parton.

Billy, who shared a close connection with Parton over the years, paid tribute to the country icon, who died on his birthday.

“I have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start. Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TV’s, right in our living rooms,” Billy began.

Billy looked back on a memorable encounter with Parton in 1992, when he walked into her dressing room to apologize for tabloid stories claiming the two were having an affair.

“In true Dolly fashion, she just looked at me, winked and said, ‘Honey, this trash sells records!’”

Billy also shared that Parton had recently sent him a message expressing how much she loved him, something he would carry with him.

“I will always love her in the same way ….. with my whole heart … and I always will,” he concluded.

His daughter, Miley Cyrus, also mourned the loss of her godmother, whom she affectionately called “Aunt Dolly.” Parton was a familiar presence in Miley’s life and became familiar to a younger generation through her appearances on “Hannah Montana.”

The actress and singer-songwriter shared a lengthy statement reflecting on their bond and Parton’s lasting legacy.

“The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share. Our most sacred moments were private and they’ll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts,” Miley wrote.

She said one of the best ways she could honor Parton was to do what her godmother would have wanted is turn her emotions into music and continue moving forward.

“I have an angel by my side. I always have. One of our last conversations was about music and metamorphosis.”

Miley said she would always love Parton and strive to make her proud.

“My heart breaks for the world, her family and friends who will miss her deeply. We’re in this loss together and we will see her in all of the most beautiful things,” she ended.

Kristin Chenoweth also remembered Parton as a longtime inspiration and someone who always made her feel welcome. The two had known each other for years and developed a friendship alongside their creative connection.

“Like the rest of the world, I’m immediately heartbroken. I met Dolly on several occasions and she always made me feel like one of her own. She even agreed to sing with me on one of my records,” Chenoweth wrote.

“The world has lost one of the best but I know we will never forget her because she is impossible to forget. I love you Dolly and I will ALWAYS love you.” 

Chenoweth’s closing words also echoed the title of Parton’s iconic song “I Will Always Love You,” which Parton wrote and originally recorded in 1973. The song was covered by Whitney Houston in 1992 for the film "The Bodyguard." 

Chenoweth later shared another post featuring a video of the late singer making an appearance on one of her shows years ago.

“Found this video last night. I’ll be looking forward to those chicken and dumplings the next time we meet, Dolly. I still can’t believe how blessed I am that she made this little appearance in one of my shows years ago... I will always love you, @dollyparton,” she wrote.

Sabrina Carpenter, who collaborated with Parton on a special duet of her hit song “Please Please Please” for the deluxe edition of her album “Short n’ Sweet,” remembered the warmth and humor she found in their friendship.

“Oh dolly. The only thing I could say after we first met was ‘she really is an angel walking the earth’ and ‘we look like we could be sisters!’

“I will cherish our laughter and conversations and I will keep your wisdom, your playful outlook on life, and perfect sense of humor in my pocket for the rainy days."

Carpenter also reflected on Parton’s singular talent and the lasting impact she had on those who knew her and listened to her music.

"There will never be another you and how lucky are we all to have experienced your singular magic as well as your once in a lifetime voice, songs, and heart. Your light will be something the world will search forever to find again. I will always love you,” she added.

Beyoncé, who worked with Parton on a reworked version of the country star’s 1973 classic “Jolene” for her 2024 album “Cowboy Carter,” also paid tribute to the late icon. Rather than sharing the message on social media, Beyoncé posted it on her website.

“Dolly, you were the barometer. The north star. Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious. You taught so many lessons on how to be uniquely oneself."

Beyoncé said she was grateful not only for Parton’s music, but also for her generosity, humor and entrepreneurial spirit.

"I’m honored that I had the privilege to work with you. I will treasure that forever. Thank you for your profound impact on the world. You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art. You are truly one of one. Rest peacefully."

Numerous other stars also shared their grief, including Taylor Swift, Julia Roberts, Eminem, Celine Dion and Dionne Warwick. Tributes have continued to come from artists and public figures across generations, underscoring the breadth of Parton’s influence.

Parton’s nephew, Bryan Seaver, announced her death Tuesday through Parton’s own official Instagram account.

Parton reportedly died following a brief battle with cancer. Her publicist said she passed away peacefully in Nashville, Tennessee, her home state, surrounded by loved ones.