08/26/2026
Dolly Parton, Beloved Singer, Songwriter, and Actress, dies at 80
The New York Film Academy is deeply saddened by the passing of legendary singer, songwriter, actress, and cultural icon Dolly Parton (1946-2026), whose extraordinary career spanned music, film, television, and philanthropy. 🦋🎶
Parton made her unforgettable film debut as Doralee Rhodes in the beloved comedy 9 to 5 (1980), for which she also wrote and performed the Academy Award-nominated title song. She went on to deliver memorable performances in The Best Little Wh******se in Texas, Rhinestone, Steel Magnolias, Straight Talk, and Joyful Noise, among others.
Her influence on film extended far beyond her acting. Parton’s remarkable catalog of songs including “I Will Always Love You,” “9 to 5,” and “Jolene” have become part of the soundtrack of generations, with her music featured, adapted, and reimagined across film and television. She also contributed extensively to film soundtracks, including writing 10 original songs for Straight Talk, and writing and performing “Travelin’ Thru,” the Oscar-nominated song featured in the 2005 film Transamerica, which follows a transgender woman as she reconnects with her son.
Dolly Parton’s legacy extended far beyond entertainment, with her philanthropy supporting literacy, education, children, disaster relief, and communities in need through initiatives including her Imagination Library, which has provided millions of free books to children around the world. Dolly was well-known for her generosity, kindness, and positive outlook on life.
For filmmakers, actors, musicians, and storytellers, Dolly Parton represented the power of an authentic creative voice and the ability to cross artistic boundaries while remaining unmistakably yourself.
The New York Film Academy extends its deepest condolences to Dolly’s family, friends, collaborators, and millions of fans around the world. Her artistry, generosity, humor, and unforgettable body of work will continue to inspire us all indefinitely.
Rest in peace, Dolly. 🦋 Your songs and your stories will live on. 🕊️🎬🎶