Dolly Parton, the legendary singer, songwriter, actress, philanthropist, and one of the most recognizable entertainers of her generation, has died at the age of 80.
Parton’s family announced her passing Tuesday, August 25. Her nephew Brian Seaver shared the news on behalf of the Parton and Owens family, while Parton’s publicist confirmed that a small private service will be held for immediate family.
For Disney fans of a certain generation, Dolly also holds a special place in Disney Channel history thanks to Hannah Montana.
Parton appeared on the hit series as Aunt Dolly, the godmother of Miley Stewart, played by Parton’s real-life goddaughter, Miley Cyrus. It was one of those cases where real life and Disney storytelling blended together perfectly. Dolly essentially played an exaggerated version of herself, bringing her unmistakable personality, humor, and affection for Miley to the series.
And their relationship extended far beyond television.
Parton was a major influence throughout Cyrus’ life and career, something Cyrus has spoken about often. Earlier this year, we learned that Dolly even played a part in getting the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special off the ground. Cyrus said she followed advice from her godmother to start promoting something she wanted before it actually existed, creating enough excitement around a potential Hannah Montana anniversary project that Disney ultimately made it happen.
That makes Dolly’s Disney connection feel particularly poignant today. Twenty years after Hannah Montana premiered, her influence was still helping bring that world back to Disney fans.
Of course, Aunt Dolly represents only a tiny piece of an extraordinary career. Parton wrote hundreds of songs, sold more than 100 million records, starred in films including 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias, and became known just as much for her generosity as her music. Her Imagination Library has provided free books to children around the world, growing from a program inspired by her father’s struggles with literacy into one of her most enduring legacies.
Dolly Parton was one of those rare entertainers who seemed to belong to everybody. For Disney kids who grew up with Hannah Montana, she was also Aunt Dolly.
And that feels like a pretty lovely little piece of Disney history to remember today.
