Dolly Parton Recovering, Delays Stage Return Amid Health Treatment

Country music icon Dolly Parton has shared a heartfelt health update with fans, revealing she is recovering well but not yet ready to return to live performances.

In a video posted on Instagram on May 4, the 80-year-old singer expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support she has received over the past year, particularly following the March 2025 death of her husband, Carl Thomas Dean.

“Thank you for standing by me and showing me so much love and support over the past year. I’ve still got some healing to do, but I am on my way,” she said.

Parton explained that while she is responding positively to her current medications and treatments, the recovery process is ongoing. She noted that some of the treatments leave her feeling “swimmy-headed,” making it difficult to perform at her usual stage level.

Despite the temporary setback, the legendary performer maintained her signature humour, joking that she couldn’t handle instruments like banjos and guitars while feeling dizzy.