Legendary country singer Dolly Parton has reassured fans of her health status, declaring she is “not dead yet” following concerns raised by her sister’s prayer request. On October 9, 2023, Parton shared a video on social media to clarify her condition after her sister, Freida Parton, revealed she had been “up all night praying” for the music icon’s well-being.
The alarm was raised when Parton announced on September 29, 2023, that she had to postpone six upcoming concerts due to health challenges. In her video, she addressed her supporters directly, stating, “I know lately, everybody thinks that I am sicker than I am. Do I look sick to you?”
In her message, Parton expressed gratitude for the concern and prayers she has received. “I appreciate your prayers because I’m a person of faith,” she said, emphasizing that while she is facing some health issues that require her to be closer to home for treatments, she is not in imminent danger.
The 9 to 5 singer reflected on her past, sharing that the prolonged illness of her late husband, Carl Dean, who passed away on March 3, 2025, took a toll on her health. “Back when my husband Carl was very sick, I didn’t take care of myself,” she admitted, acknowledging that she let several health matters slide during that challenging period.
Freida Parton later took to Facebook to clarify her previous comments, stating, “I didn’t mean to scare anyone. It was nothing more than a little sister asking for prayers for her big sister.” She expressed her appreciation for the love and support they had received, indicating that it had made a significant difference.
Dolly Parton previously announced her need to postpone performances in Las Vegas due to advice from her doctors. “My doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures,” she noted, humorously adding, “it must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up,” while referencing her routine visits to her plastic surgeon.
Earlier in September, the singer was also unable to attend a significant announcement concerning a new ride at her theme park, Dollywood, due to a kidney stone infection.
As fans continue to rally around her, Dolly Parton remains a beloved figure in the music industry, known for her resilience and sense of humor even in the face of health challenges.
