Dolly Parton eases health fears with warm Thanksgiving message to fans

TOI GLOBAL | Nov 28, 2025, 23:54 IST
Dolly Parton shares emotional Thanksgiving message amid health struggles: ‘Just know that…’

Dolly Parton offered reassurance to millions of concerned fans by sharing a bright and heartfelt Thanksgiving message on Instagram, following weeks of speculation about her health. The 79-year-old singer appeared upbeat and radiant as she wished families blessings for the holiday, easing anxieties that grew after she postponed her Las Vegas residency for medical procedures and after her sister’s emotional social media posts intensified public concern. Parton, who recently joked she “ain’t dead yet,” addressed the rumors directly, insisting she was doing better than people thought. Her warm holiday message brought renewed comfort, showing her trademark humor, resilience, and gratitude as she continues prioritizing her health.

Dolly Parton sent out a reassuring message to fans this Thursday, which was Thanksgiving, by appearing bright, warm, and full of her signature charm. The much-loved 79-year-old music legend posted a video on Instagram, where she wished her fans and their families all the best for the holiday season. Wearing a brown tweed top and having her iconic blond hair swept up, with soft curls framing her face, she looked energized and cheerful, which in itself was a pleasant sight after weeks of public concern.

“Well, hello! It’s Dolly here, and I want to wish all of you and your family blessings this Thanksgiving,” she said with her characteristic energy. “I am so thankful for all of you and for the memories that we’ve shared through the years. So, Happy Thanksgiving to everyone, and just know that I will always love you.” The warmth and steadiness in her voice promptly comforted fans who have anxiously followed updates about her health.

Parton's appearance comes amid rising concern after she postponed her Las Vegas residency earlier this year, citing that her doctors advised her to undergo "a few procedures." She joked at the time, in her signature blend of humor and honesty, "It must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up — although it's not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon!" But she also made it clear that she needed to take the time to focus on her health and couldn't rehearse or execute a show to the caliber she felt her fans deserved.

Speculation increased when Parton's sister, Freida, said on Facebook that she had been "up all night praying" for her sister. The emotional message only served as further fuel for speculation on how serious Dolly's condition was. Though Freida wrote that her sister was strong and provided with thousands of prayers, fans were rightly shaken by the dramatic tone of the message. Later, she clarified that she didn't mean to cause alarm, simply reiterating that Dolly had been "a little under the weather."

Parton herself eventually stepped in with her signature humor to quell the rumors, posting on X that she "ain't dead yet!"-an instantly viral comment for its sass and reassurance. In a longer video, she addressed the situation head-on, explaining that "everybody thinks that I'm sicker than I am," and expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of love and concern. Her directness, paired with her gratitude, reminded fans why she remains one of the most beloved figures in entertainment.

Now, through her Thanksgiving message filled with positivity and strength, the fans have once again breathed a sigh of relief. Her residency might remain postponed, and she's still on her health journey, but Dolly's resilience-and her undying love for her fans-continues to shine through. As she said in her message, the memories shared with her global audience remain her greatest blessing, and her promise that she will “always love you” feels more meaningful than ever.
Tags:
  • thanksgiving
  • instagram
  • parton
  • las vegas
  • freida