Despite growing up surrounded by fame and wealth, North West has revealed that she would like to experience something considerably more ordinary.

The 13-year-old daughter of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West has already begun carving out a music career, but she also has her eyes set on working a regular job at Starbucks.

As North West gets older, her ambitions and personal style continue to evolve, from abandoning an earlier dream of becoming a basketball player to embracing music and her growing collection of piercings.

northie for @Dazed 🩵 pic.twitter.com/KY1RpDZWp7

— Kim Kardashian (@KimKardashian) August 24, 2026

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North may already have access to opportunities that most teenagers could only imagine, but she is still interested in experiencing a regular job.

During an interview with Dazed, she revealed that she would like to work at Starbucks once she turns 14.

“I still wanna work. I wanna work at, like, Starbucks next year,” North said. She believes turning 14 could give her the opportunity to pursue that goal, adding, “I want to have a regular job, I guess.”

Despite being born to celebrity parents, she appears eager to live an ordinary life.

North’s comments quickly went viral online, prompting mixed reactions from Netizens. One individual wrote, “She should! Everyone should work a customer service job once in their life. For her, maybe backstage at Disneyland though.”

In contrast, someone else noted, “

The Singer Gave Up On Her Basketball Career

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Basketball was once among the many careers North imagined for herself, but that dream no longer seems to be part of her future.

When asked about becoming a professional basketball player, the 13-year-old made it clear that ambition is “not” in the cards for her anymore.

Her answer marks a change from 2023, when North listed basketball alongside several other ambitions. At the time, she said, “A basketball player, a rapper, um… Well, when I was seven, I wanted to be a boxer.” She also expressed interest in art, business, and eventually owning Yeezy and SKIMS.

Music, however, now appears to have become one of her main priorities. North dismissed advice that she should start her career later, explaining, “This is my hobby, this is what I like to do, this is what I wanna do with my life.”

She also admitted she avoids activities she does not excel at, saying, “I don’t like to do things that I’m bad at.” Her ideal day now involves rehearsing, heading to the studio, or preparing for a major performance.

North West’s Love For Body Piercings

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North’s growing interest in self-expression has also been reflected in her appearance. According to People, she has been seen with dermal piercings on her hands and fingers and recently appeared in TikTok videos with two metal studs on each thigh.

The piercings have generated mixed reactions online, but North has continued embracing the distinctive style she prefers. Her appearance has also included blue hair and other bold looks, making her aesthetic an increasingly recognizable part of her public image.

Kim has defended her daughter amid some of the criticism. Responding to concerns about North’s changing appearance, she previously called the controversy “such a non-issue.” The mother of four has also asked people to show her more “grace” as she navigates parenting a teenager whose choices are regularly scrutinized publicly.

Despite the attention surrounding her appearance, North continues to experiment with her personal style as she grows older. Her piercings and bold fashion choices appear to be part of an evolving identity that she is increasingly comfortable expressing in public.

North West’s Growing Public Exposure Raises Concerns

North’s increasing fame has also brought concerns about the amount of public exposure surrounding her.

The criticism intensified following her appearance at a Vetements show during Paris Fashion Week, where footage showed photographers and other adults gathering around her.

According to the Daily Mail, one interaction in particular generated concern after internet personality Matteo Sinet hugged North when she appeared to be offering him a handshake.

Rapper Skepta was among those who reacted to the attention surrounding her, saying, “WOW!! Protect your kids, people. Protect your kids!”

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Another source said, “No child should be placed in a position where adult men feel entitled to crowd her, comment on her, or seek photos with her in a way that treats her as public property.”

Kim Kardashian And Kanye West Also Faced Backlash Over Their Daughter’s Freedom

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The scrutiny has also fallen on Kim and Kanye, with questions being raised about how their daughter’s freedom is being managed.

However, an insider said Kim strongly objects to suggestions that she is failing to protect North.

“Kim feels judged by a lot of other parents but is insulted at the idea that she isn’t doing enough to protect North,” the source said.

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Dolly Parton was still dreaming about the future just four days before her death. The country music legend, who died on August 25 at age 80, spoke candidly about her ongoing health challenges in what would become one of her final interviews. Despite acknowledging that she was still recovering, Parton made it clear that she had no intention of stepping away from her work.

Instead, the “Jolene” singer was looking ahead to the numerous projects she hoped to complete, declaring that she still had “so many things” left to achieve. Her hopeful words have taken on a heartbreaking new meaning following the news of her death.

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Parton shared the health update during an interview published by PEOPLE Magazine on August 21. The singer explained that some of her recent medical problems had gone unaddressed while she cared for her husband, Carl Dean, before his death in March 2025. “As I’ve shared in video messages throughout the past year, I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn’t pay attention to when I was watching over Carl,” Parton said.

She noted that it was not the first time she had experienced a significant health setback, recalling being sidelined for several months during the 1980s. “You know, this isn’t the first time I’ve had to manage something like this,” she continued. “Back in the early ’80s, I was down for several months with female issues, and I was struggling with my weight at the time too, so it’s not like I haven’t been through hard times with my health.”

Parton also acknowledged how social media had amplified public concern and speculation surrounding her condition. “But I think because we live in a 24/7 world with social media, everything gets magnified in ways it wasn’t years ago,” she said. “I used to joke that I was the Queen of the Tabloids, but now I guess I can say I’m the Queen of Social Media AI!”

The Country Icon Refused To Stop Dreaming

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Even while discussing her health, Parton remained focused on the work she still wanted to finish. “Seriously, though, even though I’m still healin’, I’m still workin’!” she declared. “You know me, as I’ve often said, I’ve dreamed myself into a corner and I still have so many things I want to achieve, so I’m gonna keep on working as long as I can to see everything come to life.”

At the time of her final interview, Parton was working on a Broadway transfer of “Dolly: A True Original Musical,” an autobiographical production that premiered in Nashville in 2025.

Parton previously said she wanted to remain directly involved in the musical’s development rather than leave others to interpret her life after she was gone. “I wanted to see it done while I’m still around, to be able to oversee it and make sure that it’s done properly in a way that I would want to see it, rather than to wait till I’m gone and let somebody else decide how they think it should be done,” she explained at the production’s announcement.

Health Problems Forced Dolly Parton To Cancel Her Las Vegas Return

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Parton’s health struggles had become more visible during the final year of her life. She initially postponed her “Dolly: Live in Las Vegas” residency in last fall, explaining that doctors had advised her to undergo several medical procedures.

At the time, Parton reassured fans that she was not retiring. “And don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet,” she said. “But, I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you.”

However, Parton ultimately canceled the rescheduled dates in May after determining that she would not be ready to return to the stage. She said she was “responding really well to meds and treatments” and “improving every day,” but explained that her recovery would take longer than anticipated.

Parton disclosed that her immune and digestive systems had become “out of whack” and also discussed her recurring problems with kidney stones. More recently, she missed a Dollywood appearance after becoming dehydrated and being instructed by her doctor not to travel.

Parton consistently characterized her conditions as treatable. No official cause of death was immediately disclosed, and her previous health issues have not been publicly established as the cause.

Dolly Parton Previously Worried About Running Out Of Time

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Parton had spoken openly in the past about whether she would have enough time to bring all her ideas to life. “I just hope I live long enough to do more things,” she once admitted. “That’s the only thing that worries me, that I may run out of time before I see so many of my dreams come true.”

However, the songwriter had also prepared for her work to continue beyond her lifetime. “I wake up with new dreams all the time,” she explained. “But I put them in a place where they can continue, even after I’m gone.”

That philosophy extended well beyond her music. Parton’s legacy includes Dollywood, her Imagination Library literacy program, her philanthropic work and numerous projects intended to preserve her story.

Dolly Parton’s Dreams Were Designed To Outlive Her

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In her final interview, Parton did not sound like someone reflecting on a finished career. She sounded like the same ambitious young songwriter who left the Tennessee mountains for Nashville with an abundance of ideas and the determination to make them real.

Parton may not have lived to see every remaining dream completed, but she made certain that much of what she created could continue without her.

Bella Hadid got sentimental about her time visiting home.

Hadid, 29, showed off her bikini body in a colorful swimsuit while enjoying a picturesque trip to a place she held near and dear.

In the pic, which she shared via Instagram on Monday, August 24, the model slayed in a red, white and blue plaid bikini featuring triangle cups and straps that tied behind her neck. She styled the itty-bitty top, which exposed her underboob, with high-waisted swim shorts. Hadid further accessorized with bracelets on her wrists and a white baseball cap.

She also shared more moments of her vacation, including a clip of her going topless while sitting on the side of a creek. Hadid wore nothing but flowy white pants complete with an elastic waistband. She wore her blonde hair down and laughed while sitting on a rock overlooking the water.

Hadid also posed in her bra before going topless, which was complete with white lace details. She put her hands on her hips and gave the camera a big smile.

Hadid made sure to spend quality time with her family and shared pics of herself working outside, playing with kids and soaking up the scenery.

“I like home,” she captioned the post.

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Hadid previously showed off her bikini style in May while enjoying a boat ride. At the time, she wowed in a bronze bikini complete with triangle cups and razor-thin straps. She styled the top with matching string bottoms finished with a thong back. Hadid made her look even more chic by accessorizing with oversized brown sunglasses while sipping on a coffee.

She went makeup-free at the time, showing off her natural beauty. Hadid wore her hair, which was still wet from swimming, down and pushed back.

“Morning coffees before work shall never feel the same from this point forward,” the Victoria’s Secret model wrote alongside the pics.

There’s nothing like binge-watching an excellent TV series from start to finish. With long-running shows, this can take months, but shorter series can be watched in full over the course of just a day or two. A great short series makes the most of its limited number of episodes and gets viewers attached to the characters early on. These shows, no matter the genre, keep viewers engaged with compelling storylines and captivating relationship dynamics.

From limited series to shows that only got two seasons to others that are still releasing new episodes, there are so many fantastic shows that don’t have very many episodes. These shows make for the best binge-watches, and they are also great to rewatch over and over. Whether they be hilarious sitcoms with just a season or two or absolutely devastating miniseries, these are the seven best series to stream with fewer than 20 episodes.

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‘Bad Sisters’ (2022–2024)

Image via Apple TV

Bad Sisters is a dark comedy thriller series that follows the five Garvey sisters: Eva (Sharon Horgan), Grace (Anne-Marie Duff), Ursula (Eva Birthistle), Bibi (Sarah Greene), and Becka (Eve Hewson). In the present day, Grace’s abusive husband, Jean Paul (Claes Bang), has just died. As Grace mourns, her sisters try to cover up their mysterious involvement in his death, and two insurance agents try to find a way out of paying Grace.

In the past, Jean Paul ruins the lives of each of Grace’s sisters, while continuing to treat her horribly. Feeling out of options, Eva, Ursula, Bibi, and Becka decide to plot his murder. None of them know anything about killing someone, though, so they go through a lot of trial and error along the way. They try out a number of different methods to try to kill Jean Paul, and the result is both suspenseful and hilarious. Bad Sisters makes the most of its 18 episodes, and it keeps viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

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‘Crashing’ (2016)

Image via Channel 4

Crashing is a hangout sitcom that follows a group of people who all act as property managers for an abandoned hospital. Because of this, they get to live there for free — at least until the property gets torn down or used for something else. The events of the show start when two new people move in and shake things up: Lulu (Phoebe Waller-Bridge), the wild childhood friend of one of the residents, and Colin (Adrian Scarborough), a recently separated man going through a midlife crisis.

Crashing only has six episodes, and you can watch the entire show in just about two hours. Even though it is so short, Crashing is one of the best sitcoms on streaming. It is laugh-out-loud funny, with sharp dialogue, a delightfully bizarre main setting, and uniquely strange and charming characters. The main dynamics are also incredibly compelling, both among the larger group and through the individual friendships and romantic connections.

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‘Daisy Jones & the Six’ (2023)

Image via Prime Video

Daisy Jones & the Six tells the story of an iconic ’80s rock band, all building up to the night that mysteriously split them up at the height of their fame and success. The show starts with the formation of a band called The Six, while separately, up-and-coming singer-songwriter Daisy Jones (Riley Keough) makes a name for herself. Then, Daisy Jones and The Six are paired together to work on a song, where she and lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist Billy Dunne (Sam Claflin) butt heads. It soon becomes clear that Daisy and Billy are magic together, and they are pushed to keep making music together.

Some time several decades into the future, the members of the band and those connected to them tell the story of those years in a tell-all interview, each separately recounting their own memories of the events. In the past, Daisy and Billy form an unlikely and explosive connection that propels all of their careers, while also threatening the core dynamics that make up the band’s inner circle. Daisy Jones & the Six is a deeply captivating drama series with excellent music and memorable characters, and it makes for the perfect binge-watch.

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‘Over the Garden Wall’ (2014)

Image via Cartoon Network

Over the Garden Wall is an animated fantasy miniseries that aired on Cartoon Network a little over a decade ago. The series follows two half-brothers named Wirt (Elijah Wood) and Greg (Collin Dean), who are already lost in a magical forest called the Unknown at the start of the series. They don’t remember how they got there, and they have no idea how to get out. Still, the brothers embark on a quest to get home, making both unlikely friends and dangerous enemies along the way.

Over the Garden Wall is a cozy and whimsical series with excellent animation and well-written storylines. Each episode, Wirt and Greg stumble upon a new part of the Unknown, having exciting adventures and getting to know the creatures and people that populate the space. All the while, the brothers are at risk from a villain who turns children into trees and burns them as kindling for his lantern. The series perfectly balances its lightness and whimsy with this darker storyline.

5

‘Adults’ (2025–Present)

Adults is an excellent sitcom that first premiered last year and will be releasing its second season at the end of this month. The show follows five close friends who all live in a house together in Queens: Anton (Owen Thiele), Issa (Amita Rao), Billie (Lucy Freyer), Samir (Malik Elassal), and Paul Baker (Jake Innanen). Each episode, the friends deal with anything from normal adult issues like money problems to strange dilemmas like accidentally befriending a local “stabber.”

The highlight of Adults is its fantastic main friend group. Each of the characters is complex and quirky in their own unique ways, and they all have excellent dynamics with one another. The writing is absolutely hilarious as well, and the show’s humor is delightfully over-the-top and strange. In between seasons, Adults released a prequel episode that shows how all the friends met Paul Baker, and its nine episodes are all available to binge-watch ahead of Season 2.

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‘The Haunting of Bly Manor’ (2020)

Image via Netflix

Based on The Turn of the Screw and other works by Henry James, The Haunting of Bly Manor is a stunning and terrifying limited series about a woman named Dani Clayton (Victoria Pedretti), who is trying to escape her painful past back in America. In 2007, an older woman (Carla Gugino) tells a scary story at a wedding. In the events of the story, back in 1987, Dani Clayton goes to work as an au pair for two young children at their family’s isolated and mysterious manor in Bly.

Soon, Dani starts to see things that make her question her reality, all while learning that this place has a horrifying history — starting with its beginning and ending with the recent death of Rebecca Jessel (Tahirah Sharif), the children’s last au pair before Dani. Over the course of the series, Dani becomes very close with her new coworkers and the children, forming a beautiful found family dynamic. Her new life here isn’t safe, though, and she’ll have to learn more about this place if she wants to keep her new family protected.

7

‘Galavant’ (2015–2016)

Image via ABC

Galavant is a hilarious fairy-tale spoof that follows Galavant (Joshua Sasse), a formerly successful knight who’s been a mess since his true love, Madalena (Mallory Jansen), left him to marry the evil King Richard (Timothy Omundson). Galavant’s sulking is interrupted when the desperate Princess Isabella (Karen David) asks him for help saving her kingdom from Richard, telling him that Madalena misses him and needs saving as well.

Little does Galavant know, though, that Isabella is tricking him. Richard is holding her parents captive, and in order to save them, she has to take an unknowing Galavant to his death. Galavant is a laugh-out-loud funny and truly delightful series that has excellent original songs and some seriously exciting quests throughout. It’s fun and entertaining from start to finish, and over the course of its 18 episodes, it delivers some truly phenomenal arcs for its characters.

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Galavant

Release Date

2015 – 2016-00-00

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• 
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  Timothy Omundson

  King Richard

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Get a rundown of Us‘ top stories making headlines in celebrity news, sports and entertainment on August 25, 2026. Here are the key takeaways:

• Country music icon Dolly Parton died peacefully in Nashville, her rep announced Tuesday, August 25. The singer, songwriter, actress and philanthropist leaves behind a seven-decade legacy that includes hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You,” her Dollywood theme park and her Imagination Library book-gifting program.

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• Hayden Panettiere‘s rep is pushing back on “disrespectful” online speculation surrounding the actress’ sudden death, saying there is “much more to this story” than what’s circulating publicly. Panettiere died on August 16 following a reported cardiac arrest, and the Greenville County Coroner’s Office and Greenville City Police Department in South Carolina are conducting a parallel investigation, with an autopsy finding no signs of trauma.

• Nearly seven months after Savannah Guthrie‘s mother, Nancy, was taken from her Tucson, Arizona, home, Us takes a closer look at the missteps, theories and clues that could crack the case. Experts weigh in on two ransom notes demanding millions in Bitcoin, criticism of early crime scene handling and the sheriff’s department’s limits on FBI involvement, and possible paths forward through DNA and digital evidence.

Edited by Samantha Benitz. Story produced with AI assistance

Zoë Kravitz has a way of making the fashion trends we thought we left behind suddenly feel like the only thing we want to wear. Her latest denim moment is making a strong case for bringing a slightly retro silhouette back into rotation — and thankfully, you don’t need a celebrity budget to channel the effortlessly cool look this fall.

On August 22, Kravitz was spotted strolling through New York City in light-wash cropped flare jeans, which she paired with a fitted white tee, black block heels and a slouchy black bag. The ankle-baring hem gave the throwback flair a fresh 2026 update, showing off her shoes while keeping the outfit sleek and minimal. We couldn’t pin down her exact pants, but we found a nearly identical pair on Amazon for $32.

Get the Amazon Essentials Mid-Rise Kick Crop Jeans for $32 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication, August 25, 2026, but are subject to change.

The Amazon Essentials Mid-Rise Kick Crop Jeans make it easy to recreate Kravitz’s look without spending a fortune. They have the same slim-through-the-hip silhouette, subtle flared hem and cropped design that gives her otherwise simple jeans-and-tee combination a cool, fashion-forward finish.

Related: Savannah Guthrie’s Slimming Dress Is an Ageless, Luxe-Looking Staple

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There are certain dresses that earn permanent closet status, and Savannah Guthrie just reminded Us why. A polished midi dress with a waist-defining shape can make getting dressed for the office, a nice lunch or an important event feel practically effortless. It’s a style that lets you look put together without trying too hard, and […]

Made from a cotton-blend fabric, the jeans are designed to move with you while maintaining their shape. Plus, they have a semi-stretchy feel that makes the jeans actually comfortable to wear.

The mid-rise waist makes them easy to pair with everything in your closet. We can see them worn with fitted tees and tanks for summer, and then styled with lightweight sweaters and blazers as temperatures drop.

The Amazon jeans come in a similar light wash to Kravitz’s pair, along with black and dark-wash options; sizes range from 0 through 20.

Petite shoppers are especially impressed with the cropped fit. One reviewer raved that the “no hemming is a win,” and noted that they even “work with flats.” Another buyer who called them “a must buy” wrote, “I love the flare and the crop, [it’s] really trendy and catches everyones eyes.”

Kravitz paired hers with a white tee and heels, but these are the kind of jeans we would also wear with sneakers for errands, loafers for the office or ankle boots once fall weather officially arrives. For $32, they’re an affordable way to test-drive the once-dated denim trend Kravitz made look cool again.

Obsessed with Kravitz’s jeans? Find more cropped flare lookalikes on Amazon.

Shop more light-wash cropped jeans that we love:

Not your style? Explore more cropped jeans here, and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping

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Related: Elisabeth Moss’ Loose, Polished Blouse Is Perfect for the Office

Bloated days have a funny way of making even your most reliable work tops feel like the enemy. But Elisabeth Moss just made a strong case for swapping anything clingy or restrictive for a loose, silky button-down that still looks completely polished — and we found a similar style on Amazon for just $24. Moss […]

Chicago house legend Green Velvet is taking over OMNIA Skybar on Sunday, August 30 — and the rooftop above OMNIA Dayclub has a trick that keeps golden hour going long after the actual sun is gone.

A Sunset That Doesn’t Stop

Sunset Club Sundays is built around one moment: the sun dropping behind the mountains while the Las Vegas Strip goes gold beneath you. But the real draw kicks in after.

As natural light fades, the OMNIA Horizon — a custom 8K LED canvas wrapping the entire rooftop — lights up with cinematic sunset footage shot in some of the most striking places on the planet. Golden coastlines. Cliffside horizons. Skies most guests will never see in person.

The effect is less screen than portal, and it turns a fifteen-minute sunset into an all-night visual run.

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Who’s Behind the Decks

Green Velvet needs little introduction to anyone who’s been in a club in the last thirty years. Born Curtis Jones, he’s spent three decades building a catalog that runs from the deep, soulful material he releases as Cajmere to the darker, wirier acid tracks that carry the Green Velvet name — “Flash,” “Answering Machine” and “La La Land” among them.

He founded Relief and Cajual Records, helped push Chicago house into clubs worldwide, and still turns up on festival and residency bills across Europe and the U.S. His sets skew raw and percussive, which makes for a sharp gear change once the rooftop’s ambient programming gives way to the night.

The Food Is Dayclub-Level

The kitchen pulls straight from OMNIA Dayclub’s menu — Tomahawk Taco Platters, Yellowfin Tuna Tartare, shrimp cocktail — served with craft cocktails and the full length of the Strip laid out below.

Dolly Parton has died at 80 years old, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that spans music, film, television, and philanthropy. Following news of her passing, the entertainment industry has come together to mourn the loss of the beloved country music icon, with stars sharing heartfelt tributes and memories. Among them is rapper Eminem, who honored Parton by sharing a sweet letter she had sent him years earlier.

Before her passing, Dolly Parton had been dealing with several health issues that led her to postpone or cancel performances and appearances. The country icon repeatedly assured fans she was on the mend, most recently appearing via video at the grand opening of a new roller coaster in Dollywood, where she said she got dizzy at times and was dehydrated.

Days after, Parton was admitted to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and she peacefully passed away on August 25 surrounded by her loved ones.

Per Parton’s request, the news of her death was announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, who also served as her head of security for over two decades. A representative later announced that Parton died after a “brief battle with cancer,” as The Blast reported.

Eminem Shares Sweet And Impactful Letter From Dolly Parton

Following the news of Parton’s death, the entertainment industry paid tribute to the country legend. Eminem took to social media and shared a touching letter he received from the singer. The rapper noted he never met Parton in person, but said he was deeply touched by her kindness.

In 2022, Parton and Eminem were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in the same class. In her letter, the country singer praised the rapper’s “amazing” performance and said he was “the very best” at rapping. Parton also said she felt an “unexplained connection” with Eminem, despite never having met.

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“Even for a kid who mostly listened to rap music, she was an icon. A superstar in every sense,” Eminem wrote in the caption, thanking Parton for the note.

Dolly Parton’s Legacy Extends Far Beyond Her Music

Parton left behind an extraordinary musical legacy, with hit songs that cemented her place as one of country music’s most beloved figures. However, her influence extended far beyond her music, as she was equally celebrated for her compassion, generosity, and kindness.

Sir Elton John shared his shock over the singer’s passing, writing on Instagram Stories, “A giant of an artist – unique and irreplaceable, with the kindest heart.”

Jack White, meanwhile, shared a black-and-white photo of a young Parton, simply writing, “Instant Sainthood” in the caption.

Journalist Megyn Kelly described Parton by writing she was “as close to total goodness as any mere mortal could come” in a tribute on X.

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Parton supported several causes in her decades-long career and launched the Dollywood Foundation in 1988 to fund literacy initiatives and educational programs for children. She also supported disaster relief, animal welfare, and medical research, among others.

Fellow Singers Honor The Country Music Legend

Sabrina Carpenter was among those who honored Parton, writing in an Instagram post, “There will never be another you, and how lucky are we all to have experienced your singular magic as well as your once in a lifetime voice, songs, and heart.” Carpenter and Parton recorded a special duet remix of the former’s song “Please Please Please” in 2025 and appeared together in a music video.

Beyoncé honored Parton on her official website, writing, “You were the barometer. The North Star. Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious… You are truly one of one.” The two singers collaborated on Beyoncé’s country album “Cowboy Carter,” with Parton appearing in a spoken-word intro for Beyoncé’s cover of her song, “Jolene.”

Musicians who honored Parton include Reba McEntire, Keith Urban, Kacey Musgraves, Brandie Carlile, Blake Shelton, and Shania Twain, among many others, who all expressed the profound impact the country singer had on them.

A Private Service Will Be Held For Dolly Parton

Following the news of her passing, Parton’s team announced that the country icon will be laid to rest in a small, private ceremony, in accordance with her wishes.

Parton’s family has also asked fans to donate to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library instead of sending flowers.

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Those who want to honor Parton are requested to share their tributes and memories of the singer on social media or by writing messages on her official website, dollyparton.com.

Dolly Parton’s journey from a one-room cabin in the Tennessee mountains to international superstardom became one of the most remarkable stories in entertainment history. Before her death at age 80, Parton spent more than six decades building a career that reached far beyond country music. She became an acclaimed songwriter, actress, businesswoman and philanthropist while maintaining the humor and authenticity that made millions of fans feel connected to her. From her childhood performances and arrival in Nashville to Dollywood, Hollywood and her final projects, these photos capture the defining chapters of Parton’s extraordinary life.

Parton was born on January 19, 1946, in Pittman Center, Tennessee, and grew up in nearby Locust Ridge. She was one of 12 children raised by Robert Lee Parton and Avie Lee Owens Parton in a one-room cabin.

Money was scarce, but music remained a constant presence inside the family’s home. Parton began singing in her grandfather’s church as a child and wrote her first song, “Little Tiny Tasseltop,” at approximately 6 years old.

Her rural upbringing would later inspire some of her most personal songs, including “Coat of Many Colors.”

The Future Star Began Performing As A Child

Parton received her first real guitar when she was 8 and quickly began pursuing opportunities beyond her hometown.

By age 10, she was appearing on local television and radio programs in Knoxville. She performed at the Grand Ole Opry when she was 13, where she reportedly met country music legend Johnny Cash.

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Even at that young age, Parton had already decided that music would become more than a childhood hobby. After graduating from high school, she immediately left home to pursue her dreams in Nashville.

Dolly Parton Arrived In Nashville With Big Dreams

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Parton moved to Nashville in 1964, arriving in the center of the country music industry on the day after her high school graduation.

Her first major success came as a songwriter, with other performers recording material she had written. Parton released her debut studio album, “Hello, I’m Dolly,” in 1967, introducing audiences to the voice and storytelling that would eventually make her a global star.

That same year, Porter Wagoner invited her to join his syndicated television series, “The Porter Wagoner Show.” Their partnership gave Parton national exposure and produced numerous successful duets.

Her Partnership With Porter Wagoner Changed Her Career

Parton and Wagoner became one of country music’s most recognizable performing teams throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Their professional relationship helped Parton establish herself with country audiences, but she eventually wanted greater control over her solo career. Her decision to leave the show created tension between them and inspired one of her most enduring songs.

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Parton wrote “I Will Always Love You” as a farewell to Wagoner and their creative partnership. The song topped the country charts after its 1974 release and again after Parton rerecorded it in 1982.

‘Jolene’ Turned Dolly Parton Into A Music Icon

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Parton’s solo career soared during the 1970s as she released several songs that would become country standards.

“Jolene,” inspired partly by a bank teller who appeared interested in Parton’s husband, became one of the most recognizable songs of her career. Other hits included “Joshua,” “Here You Come Again,” “Two Doors Down” and “Light of a Clear Blue Morning.”

Parton’s lyrics frequently explored love, poverty, heartbreak and the experiences of working-class women. Her distinctive voice and visual style helped her reach audiences far beyond Nashville.

Dolly Parton Built A Private Life With Carl Dean

Parton met Carl Dean outside a Nashville laundromat on the day she arrived in the city.

The couple married in 1966 and remained together until Dean’s death in March 2025. Although his wife became one of the world’s most recognizable performers, Dean preferred a quiet life and rarely accompanied her to public events.

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Parton often joked that spending time apart helped their marriage last, but she consistently described Dean as her greatest supporter. Their relationship lasted nearly 60 years and inspired several of her songs.

The Country Singer Conquered Hollywood

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Parton expanded her career into acting with the 1980 comedy “9 to 5,” starring alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. She also wrote and recorded the movie’s title song, which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned an Academy Award nomination.

Parton later appeared in movies including “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas,” “Rhinestone,” “Steel Magnolias” and “Straight Talk.” She also earned multiple Golden Globe nominations for her work onscreen.

Whitney Houston Gave ‘I Will Always Love You’ A New Life

Parton’s songwriting reached another generation when Whitney Houston recorded “I Will Always Love You” for the 1992 movie “The Bodyguard.”

Houston’s powerful rendition became a worldwide phenomenon and one of the best-selling singles in music history. Parton remained proud that a song born from the end of her partnership with Wagoner had taken on an entirely new meaning.

The success also affirmed Parton’s decision to maintain control of her publishing rights. She frequently described songwriting as her greatest gift and the legacy she most wanted to leave behind.

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Dollywood Brought Her Success Home To Tennessee

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Parton joined the owners of the former Silver Dollar City Tennessee in 1986 to create Dollywood in Pigeon Forge.

The theme park combined attractions and entertainment with the culture and traditions of the Great Smoky Mountains. It eventually grew into one of Tennessee’s most popular tourist destinations while providing thousands of jobs in the region where Parton was raised.

Parton remained closely connected to Dollywood and frequently appeared at the park for openings and celebrations. Its growth allowed her to invest her success back into the community that shaped her.

Dolly Parton Used Her Fame To Help Children

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Parton founded the Imagination Library in 1995 to honor her father, who was unable to read or write.

The program began by mailing free books to young children in her home county and later expanded across the United States and several other countries. Hundreds of millions of books have since been distributed to children from birth until they begin school.

Parton also supported scholarships, disaster recovery, medical research and numerous charitable causes. In 2020, she donated $1 million to Vanderbilt University Medical Center to help fund COVID-19 research.

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The Singer Continued Reinventing Herself

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Parton remained creatively active well into her 70s, collaborating with performers from multiple generations and genres.

She maintained a particularly close relationship with her goddaughter, Miley Cyrus, appearing with her on “Hannah Montana” and joining her for several memorable performances. Parton also worked with artists including Beyoncé and Sabrina Carpenter as her songs continued reaching younger listeners.

After initially hesitating to accept her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Parton embraced the honor and released the rock album “Rockstar” in 2023. The ambitious project featured an extensive lineup of prominent musicians.

Dolly Parton Faced The Deaths Of Her Husband And Brother

The final years of Parton’s life brought devastating personal losses.

Her husband, Carl Dean, died in March 2025 at age 82 after their nearly six-decade marriage. Parton subsequently honored him with “If You Hadn’t Been There,” describing their relationship as a love story that would never truly end.

In July 2026, she also mourned the death of her older brother, Coy “Denver” Parton. The two losses came as the singer was managing ongoing health challenges and reducing some of her public commitments.

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Health Issues Forced Her To Step Away From The Stage

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Parton postponed her planned Las Vegas residency in 2025 after doctors advised her to undergo several procedures.

The shows were rescheduled for September 2026 but eventually canceled as her recovery continued. Parton disclosed that she had experienced recurring kidney stones and problems involving her immune and digestive systems.

She also missed a Dollywood appearance shortly before her death after becoming dehydrated and being advised not to travel. Despite those setbacks, Parton repeatedly assured fans that she was responding to treatment and remained committed to her work.

Dolly Parton Was Still Planning Her Future

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Only days before her death, Parton revealed that she had not stopped dreaming about what she wanted to create. “Even though I’m still healin’, I’m still workin’!” she told PEOPLE Magazine. “I’ve dreamed myself into a corner and I still have so many things I want to achieve, so I’m gonna keep on working as long as I can to see everything come to life.”

Her remaining plans reportedly included a Nashville museum and hotel, an autobiographical Broadway musical and possible collaborations with companies developing avatar performances.

Rather than looking back on a completed career, Parton continued approaching her life as if another creative chapter was about to begin.

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The Country Music Legend Dies At 80

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Parton’s family announced her death on August 25, 2026. She was 80 years old.

An official cause of death was not immediately disclosed. Her death followed a career spanning more than six decades and encompassing music, film, television, business and philanthropy.

From “Jolene” and “9 to 5” to Dollywood and the Imagination Library, Parton created a legacy that extended far beyond the stage. Although she did not live to complete every remaining dream, she built much of her life’s work to continue inspiring others after she was gone.