Elton John, Oprah Winfrey and Paul McCartney offer Dolly Parton tributes

Country singer Blake Shelton, who worked with Parton on the American television series The Voice wrote: “I can say with absolute certainty that we are all feeling the same heart brokenness today.”

“I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is,” he added. “It was like being with the funnest, most loving, most caring and closest member of your family.”

On social media, American singer and actress Dionne Warwick said her “heart is heavy”.

“I will certainly miss her laughter, jokes and her being. Rest well and in total peace my friend,” she wrote.

Former wife of Elvis Presley, Priscilla Presley, recalled: “After Elvis and I left the courthouse following our divorce, he sang [I Will Always Love You] to me as we walked down the steps together.”

“Her music touched all of us, but it was Dolly’s warmth, humour and enormous heart that made her truly one of a kind,” Presley added.

Parton, who was known for her roles in the movies 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias, as well as the show Hannah Montana, was remembered fondly by many actors.

Seth MacFarlane said that when working with Parton, who guest-starred on his show The Orville, “her kindness, generosity, and authenticity were evident from moment one”.

“I’m devastated. Truly”, actress Keke Palmer said alongside a photo of her and Parton. The pair starred in the 2012 musical Joyful Noise.

Actress Jamie Lee Curtis said Parton was a hero who “is a great example for us all”.

Fashion designer Donatella Versace said: “The world has lost one of the kindest and most generous of souls, the greatest of story tellers and a true legend of music.”