Is Dolly Parton sick? Inside country music icon’s health struggles as sister Freida solicits prayers

Dolly Parton’s sister, Freida Parton, has sent an emotional message to fans across the world, urging them to lift the legendary singer in prayer as she faces ongoing health challenges. The heartfelt plea comes just a week after Dolly announced she would be postponing her scheduled Las Vegas residency concerts due to medical procedures recommended by her doctors.

In a moving Facebook post shared on Tuesday, Freida expressed her deep concern and unwavering faith as she prayed for her sister’s recovery. “Last night, I was up all night praying for my sister, Dolly,” she wrote. “Many of you know she hasn’t been feeling her best lately. I truly believe in the power of prayer, and I feel led to ask everyone who loves her to join me as prayer warriors.”

Freida continued by reassuring fans that Dolly remains strong and optimistic despite her health setbacks. “She’s strong, she’s loved, and with all the prayers being lifted for her, I know she’s going to be just fine,” she added. “Godspeed, my sissy Dolly. We all love you!”

The post quickly went viral, with fans from around the world sending their love, prayers, and well wishes to the country superstar, who has inspired millions for more than six decades.

Dolly Parton, 79, known globally for her timeless classics such as Jolene, Coat of Many Colors, and 9 to 5, had been gearing up for a special series of concerts in Las Vegas at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. However, on September 28, the beloved artist took to social media to share a personal message announcing that she would be postponing her shows.

“I want everyone to hear it directly from me,” Dolly wrote. “Unfortunately, I’ll have to postpone my upcoming Las Vegas concerts. I’ve been dealing with a few health challenges, and my doctors have told me it’s time for a couple of procedures. I joked with them that it must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up—but in all seriousness, I want to be at my best for my fans.”

The country legend emphasized that although she would be taking a short break from performing, she was far from retiring. “While I’ll still be able to work on all my other projects from Nashville, I just need some time to get show-ready,” she explained. “Don’t worry about me quitting the business—God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet.”

Parton also promised fans that her Las Vegas concerts would be rescheduled for September of next year, assuring them that she intends to return stronger than ever.

This isn’t the first time in recent months that Dolly has had to step back from public appearances. Earlier in September, she missed an event at her Dollywood theme park celebrating the launch of a new roller coaster. Addressing fans via video message, she revealed that she had been recovering from a kidney stone and a related infection. “The doctor told me not to travel just yet,” she said. “I was really looking forward to being at Dollywood, but I’m with you in spirit.”

Parton’s recent health challenges come after a difficult period in her personal life. In March, the I Will Always Love You songwriter lost her beloved husband, Carl Thomas Dean, who passed away at 82 after nearly six decades of marriage. Despite the loss, Dolly has continued to find strength in her faith and in the love of her fans around the world.

Known for her resilience and humor, Dolly remains determined to bounce back and return to the stage. “He’s just telling me to slow down for now,” she said in reference to her faith in God. “That way, I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you soon.”

As fans rally behind her with messages of love and prayers, one thing remains certain: Dolly Parton’s spirit and legacy are as unshakable as ever.

FAQs

1. Why did Dolly Parton postpone her Las Vegas residency?
Dolly Parton postponed her Las Vegas concerts after her doctors advised her to undergo several medical procedures. The country legend said she needed time to recover and return to the stage stronger and healthier.

2. What did Freida Parton say about Dolly’s health?
Freida Parton shared a heartfelt Facebook post asking fans worldwide to join her in praying for Dolly’s full recovery, expressing faith in the “power of prayer” and confidence that her sister will be fine.

3. What health condition is Dolly Parton dealing with?
Dolly revealed she has been managing some health challenges that required medical attention. She also mentioned earlier that she had been recovering from a kidney stone and infection, which kept her from attending a Dollywood event.

4. When will Dolly Parton’s Las Vegas concerts be rescheduled?
The postponed shows at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace are expected to be rescheduled for September next year.

5. How old is Dolly Parton, and how is her health overall?
Dolly Parton is 79 years old. While she’s facing some temporary health setbacks, she remains active, optimistic, and committed to continuing her music and projects once she recovers.

6. How did fans react to Freida Parton’s post?
Thousands of fans responded to Freida’s emotional message with prayers, love, and encouraging words, showing immense support for the iconic singer during her recovery.

7. Did Dolly Parton retire from performing?
No, Dolly assured fans that she is not retiring. She emphasized that she simply needs time to heal before returning to perform at her best, adding humorously that “God hasn’t told me to stop yet.”