Dolly Parton, the American country music icon known for hits such as "Jolene" and "9 to 5," has died at the age of 80, according to multiple Dutch news outlets including AD.nl, NOS, and NU.
The reports, published on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, confirm the singer's death but provide no further details on the cause or circumstances. Parton was born in 1946, making her 80 years old at the time of her passing.
Parton rose to fame as a singer-songwriter with a career spanning decades, becoming one of the most recognizable figures in country music. Her songs, including "Jolene" and the title track from the film "9 to 5," became enduring classics, according to the reports.
Dutch newspaper de Volkskrant described Parton as a "diva full of self-mockery," but above all a singer of pure country music. The outlet highlighted her ability to balance humor with genuine musical artistry, a trait that endeared her to audiences worldwide.
Another AD.nl piece compared Parton to Dutch entertainer André van Duin, noting that "nobody disliked her." The comparison underscores her widespread appeal across generations and cultural boundaries, a rarity in the entertainment industry.
Parton's career included not only music but also acting, with her role in the 1980 film "9 to 5" cementing her status as a pop culture staple. She was also known for her philanthropic work, though specific details were not included in the source material.
The news of her death has prompted tributes from fans and fellow musicians, with the Dutch reports marking her as a loss to the global music community. Further details about memorial arrangements or official statements from her family have not yet been reported by the outlets cited.
As the story develops, expect additional coverage from international media on her legacy and the response from the music world.
