Dolly Parton recently provided fans with a personal health update, revealing that she has been feeling “worn down” following the death of her husband, Carl Dean. The country music legend addressed her health concerns during a video shared on March 13, coinciding with the opening day of Dollywood.
In her message, Parton acknowledged that she has been dealing with some underlying health issues, which she attributed in part to her grieving process after Dean’s passing on March 3, 2025. “I’ve not been touring, as you know,” she stated. “I’ve had a few little health issues, and we’re taking good care of them.” Last September, she shared that she had experienced kidney stones that required attention, signaling that her health has been a concern for some time.
Grieving Process and Moving Forward
Parton candidly expressed how the loss of her husband has affected her well-being. “I just kind of got worn down and worn out, grieving over Carl and a lot of other little things going on,” she said. The effort to manage her emotional and physical health has been significant, as she noted, “I just got myself kind of where I needed to build myself back up spiritually, emotionally, and physically. But, all is good. It didn’t slow me down.”
In a light-hearted moment, she addressed rumors about her romantic life since Dean’s death, emphasizing that she is not dating anyone. Parton humorously noted that fans should not confuse Dollywood Company President Eugene Naughton as her new partner. “I think Carl Dean’s waiting for me,” she commented. “If I should show up at the pearly gates with somebody else, he would not like that.”
Assuring Fans of Her Health
Earlier in October 2023, Parton reassured her fans about her health while filming at the Grand Ole Opry in Tennessee. “I know lately, everyone thinks I’m sicker than I am. Do I look sick to you? I’m working hard here,” she joked in a video posted on October 8. She acknowledged the stress and difficulties she faced during her husband’s illness, stating, “I let a lot of things go that I should have been taking care of.”
To emphasize her resilience, she concluded the video with the message, “I ain’t dead yet!” This remark highlights her enduring spirit and commitment to her fans, who continue to support her through this challenging time.
Dolly Parton remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and her transparency about her health and personal struggles resonates with many. As she continues to navigate her grief and focus on her well-being, her fans are left with a sense of admiration and support for the country music icon.
