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Dolly Parton's niece Danielle Parton is taking on a new role connected to her aunt's legacy, following the country music icon's death in August.
The Dolly Parton Estate announced Danielle as its official brand ambassador, with the 50-year-old saying she wants to share personal stories about the woman her family knew as Aunt Granny.
In an Instagram video posted on October 22, Danielle spoke about how losing her aunt had changed her perspective on the stories and lessons Dolly left behind.
"Like so many of you, losing her has changed something for me. It made me think of the stories, values, and lessons that she left behind, and the responsibility that our family has to care for them," she said.
Danielle was also clear that she does not intend to replace her aunt or speak on her behalf. "I would never try to speak for Dolly, and I'm not crazy enough to try to fill her shoes. God knows I couldn't walk on them without killing myself," she said.
Instead, she wants to share memories of Dolly and help support the people continuing the work she created. "Yes, Dolly Parton was my aunt, but to me, she will always be Aunt Granny," Danielle said. "She loved us deeply, believed in big dreams, and she always encouraged me to find my way in this world."
Danielle has built a career far removed from the music industry. She graduated from Belmont University in Nashville in 1998 before working as a flight attendant and later becoming a pilot.
Her appointment comes as projects connected to Dolly's legacy continue to move forward. These include DOLLY: A True Original Musical, which is scheduled to begin Broadway previews on December 7, ahead of its January 2027 opening. A biopic, docuseries and scripted television series are also in development.
The estate has not said whether Danielle's new position includes managing those businesses or projects.
For now, she says she is taking on the role while continuing with her own career and interests.
"I'm still a pilot. I'm still a girl boss, and I'm still Danielle," she said. "But I'm also still a Parton, and I'm so grateful to help care for a legacy that means so much not only to my family, but to all of you."
