Dolly Parton reveals she's facing 'health issues' after husband's death
What's the story
Iconic country music star Dolly Parton (80) recently opened up about her health issues while announcing a new museum dedicated to her life in Nashville. In an interview with PEOPLE, she said, "I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn't pay attention to when I was watching over Carl (Thomas Dean)." Dean, her husband, passed away in March 2025 at the age of 82.
Health history
'It's not like I haven't been through hard times...'
Parton also recalled a time in the early 1980s when she was "down for several months with female issues."
She said, "It's not like I haven't been through hard times with my health."
"But I think because we live in a 24/7 world with social media, everything gets magnified in ways it wasn't years ago."
Despite her ongoing health issues, Parton is still working on new projects and plans to tour differently than before.
New initiatives
Parton is working on 'avatar performances'
Parton is working on a new way to give fans a musical experience through "avatar performances," which are still in the "early stages of development."
She also recently announced her Life of Many Colors Museum in Nashville, which will be the largest exhibit globally celebrating her life.
The museum was inspired by the chance discovery of an office building that once featured her book Songteller in its lobby.
Future plans
Other projects by Parton
Apart from the museum, Parton is also working on a new line of dog treats with Purina.
She is particularly excited about her Cup of Ambition Coffee, which she has been dreaming about for over 40 years.
The coffee will be available online for nationwide shipping starting in September.
Parton also recently unveiled NightFlight Expedition at Dollywood, the park's 11th coaster.