The Primetime Emmys became the first awards show to honor Dolly Parton on Monday, Sept. 14, just three weeks after her passing from cancer at 80. Sally Field, who starred alongside Dolly in 1989’s Steel Magnolias, delivered the tribute, telling the room that if there are truly angels on Earth, we just lost one. She closed her speech simply: I love you, Dolly, so much.
Reba McEntire then took the stage to perform“Appalachian Memories”live. Choosing a deep cut instead of a greatest hit felt like a friend’s gesture, a quiet nod to the woman behind the iconic hits. The tribute aired just before the evening’s In Memoriam segment.
Dolly’s Emmy story covered 48 years, from her first nomination in 1978 for Cher…Special to her 2021 win for Dolly Parton’s Christmas on the Square. The moment gave country fans and viewers everywhere a chance to grieve together and celebrate a legacy that touched music, film, and television alike.
What’s your favorite Dolly Parton memory? Tell us in the comments.
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Ava Hart
Ava Hart is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
