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Dolly Parton is grateful for how she has made a living. The "Jolene" singer issued a heartfelt apology for being unable to attend the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Hall of Fame ceremony on November 17—where she was recognized for her theme park Dollywood—due to recent health issues.
"I sure wish I could be with you in person today," Dolly said in a thank you video posted to Dollywood's Instagram on Nov. 19, "but you probably heard that I've been dealing with a few health challenges this fall, and my doctors told me to take it easy for just a little while."
The Grammy winner was also unable to attend the 2025 Governors Awards in person on Nov. 16 to accept the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award—she emphasized that she was “truly sorry” she couldn’t be there but thanked IAAPA “for this incredible honor.”
And Dolly went on to say that she is especially appreciative of her Dollywood collaborators, who always listen when she comes in with "one of her big ideas and dreams."
"And somehow," she told me, "the amazing team at Dollywood finds a way to make those dreams come true."
The "9 to 5" singer also reflected on the history of Dollywood, which began as Rebel Railroad in 1963 and went through various versions before she took over and relaunched the park as Dollywood in 1986.
“I dreamed of a place right here in Smoky Mountain where my family could perform and we could provide steady work for the good people in our community,” she explained. “Where families could come and laugh and play and have fun and make memories together.”
And Dolly's IAAPA accolade was especially meaningful because she was only the second woman to be admitted into the Hall of Fame on her own and the fourth overall.
"From the bottom of my heart, thank you for this honor," she said. "For me and everyone who contributes to Dollywood's success. And to all of my friends and partners, as well as everyone out there helping families generate magic every day in their own parks and sites, please know that I will always adore you.
Dolly Parton addressed concerns about her health in an October Instagram post, reassuring fans that while she did not attend a Hall of Fame event due to health issues, she is not gravely ill. She expressed gratitude for the prayers and support from her followers, stating, "I can always use the prayers for anything and everything." Parton reflected on her own well-being, noting that following the death of her husband, Carl Dean, in March, she had neglected her health while caring for him during his illness. Despite her challenges, she affirmed her readiness to continue working, stating, "I'm not done working," and encouraged her fans to keep her in their prayers.
