Several quotes from a 2023 Hollywood Reporter piece about long-time LGBTQ+ ally Dolly Parton have resurfaced recently, bringing increased attention to the country artist, her inclusivity and caring for our community.
In the interview, Parton was asked about her reaction to Tennessee’s passing of anti-trans measures into law earlier that year. While Parton said that she wasn’t interested in talking about “the politics of everything,” she did offer a few specific comments, including that “I just want everybody to be treated good.”
She pointed out during the conversation that she has people in her life who identify as queer and trans, and that it was important to hear what they are saying.
“I know and love them all, and I do not judge. And I just see how broken-hearted they get over certain things and I know how real they are,” she said. “I know how important this is to them. That’s who they are. They cannot help that any more than I can help being Dolly Parton, you know, the way people know me. If there’s something to be judged, that is God’s business. But we are all God’s children and how we are is who we are.”
Over the past few months Parton has faced some unexpected challenges. In February, Indiana Governor Mike Braun’s new state budget cuts resulted in the loss of a 50 percent matching funds grant for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library (DPIL). The non-profit, funded by Parton and various grants, has worked with all 50 states to provide books for rural and economically challenged children five and under. Other reported comments have appeared in social media indicating that the program was being “quietly phased out” in North Carolina, as well, although no specific reason has been given why. Parton has stated she hopes the trend will change course.
Another unexpected development: Parton’s extremely private husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Thomas Dean, passed away on Monday, March 3. Parton addressed his death on Instagram. “Carl and I spent many wonderful years together. Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.” Although not officially announced as the cause of death, Dean was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2019.
Despite the loss of her husband and the challenges with DPIL, Parton is moving forward with a full plate of creative efforts, including the stage show “Dolly: The Musical,” set to premiere this summer, with a 14-month national tour; and additional musical collaborations with Selena Carpenter; and The Wiggles. For more details on Parton, visit her website here.
Additional content and updates added by Qnotes staff.