By Kayla DeKraker
The legendary Dolly Parton is back after taking a break due to heath issues and grieving the death of her husband, Carl Dean.
“I’ve been not touring, as you know. I’ve had a few little health issues, and we’re taking good care of them,” the “Jolene” singer said at the kickoff event for the 2026 Dollywood season, opening up about her personal life and return to the stage.
Although she didn’t specify what her health struggles were, Parton explained that grief played a significant role.
“I just kind of got worn down and worn out, grieving over Carl and a lot of other little things going on,” she said. “I just got myself kind of where I needed to build myself back up spiritually, emotionally and physically.”
Her husband died last March. They spent nearly 60 years together.
Related: A Look Back at Dolly Parton’s Impressive Career as a Musician, Actress and Humanitarian
Although Parton took a break publicly, she has still been dreaming of the future.
“I’ve just been doing a lot of writing, a lot of thinking, a lot of praying and a lot of getting ready for a lot of new stuff coming up for the rest of this whole year. So, be ready for me. I ain’t done, I ain’t near done,” she emphasized.
She has stayed busy, though. The Broadway musical about her life will debut later this year, and she collaborated with other artists on her song “Light of a Clear Blue Morning.”
Parton also addressed rumors that surfaced after she performed with Dollywood Company president Eugene Naughton, clarifying that she isn’t looking to date anyone.
“I think Carl Dean’s waiting for me. If I should show up at the pearly gates with somebody else, he would not like that…” she said.
Her Instagram account has stayed active in her public absence, as well.
“I got dreams so big they’d scare some people. 🦋” she posted earlier this month.
People in the comment section showered her with support. “You keep being inspirational,” one fan said. Another added, “Keep dreaming Dolly! We love you! 💜🦋”
Parton’s health has been in and out of the news over the last year. In October, after her sister asked fans to pray for the singer, Parton clarified what was really going on.
“Everybody thinks I’m sicker than I am. Do I look sick to you?!” she said in an Instagram video, adding “I wanted to put everyone’s mind at ease that seem to be real concerned which I appreciate, and I appreciate your prayers because I’m a person of faith.”
It sounds like Parton has a lot to keep her busy!
Read Next: ‘I Appreciate Your Prayers’: Dolly Parton Addresses Health Concerns
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