Dolly Parton's secret that led to her death has been revealed

Dolly Parton had spoken publicly about difficult health problems in the final weeks of her life, but one crucial detail remained private: the country music icon was also battling cancer.

Parton died August 25 at age 80 at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, surrounded by loved ones, according to a statement from her representatives. They confirmed that cancer was behind her death but didn't disclose the specific type she had been diagnosed with.

“After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones,” her representatives said.

The announcement provided new context for a series of health concerns that had become increasingly visible in the days before her death.

Parton had reportedly been hospitalized five days earlier with kidney and autoimmune issues. She had also canceled a scheduled appearance at Dollywood after her doctor advised against traveling.

“Sometimes I get a little dizzy and I get dehydrated,” Parton explained in a prerecorded message. “And so my Nashville doctor clipped my wings, saying, ‘You ain’t traveling this week.’”

Parton acknowledged ‘hard times’ with health

Just four days before her death, Parton spoke about her health in an interview with People, saying she had neglected some of her own medical needs while caring for her husband, Carl Dean , before his death in March 2025.

“It’s not like I haven’t been through hard times with my health,” she stated.

Despite those struggles, Parton continued making public appearances virtually. On August 19, she accepted the ACM Poet’s Award and reflected on the creative work that had defined her career.

“You know, I’ve been able to do many things throughout my life, but at my core, songwriting has always been the most important part of who I am creatively,” Parton said.

Her representatives’ statement also emphasized the legacy she built away from the stage, including the millions of books distributed through her Imagination Library and her financial support for vaccine research.

“Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched,” they said.

Family shares Parton’s final request

Her nephew and longtime head of security, Bryan Seaver , later announced her death on behalf of the family.

“This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago before I fully absorbed it as a future reality,” Seaver said. “It is an honor, an honor that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness.”

He also revealed that Parton had asked to be laid to rest “in a beautiful bed of plush cotton.”

“After a life wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserves to be comfortable,” Seaver added.

Tributes quickly followed from some of her longtime friends and co-stars. Julia Roberts , who appeared with Parton in Steel Magnolias, called her a “magical and joyous human,” adding, “The sun has dimmed today.”

Sally Field and Lily Tomlin were also among those honoring a performer whose influence stretched across music, film and philanthropy.