Dolly Parton’s Health Update: Sister Appeals for Prayers Amid Residency Postponement

Freida Parton, sister of country music icon Dolly Parton, has urged fans to pray for her 79-year-old sibling following recent health concerns that led to the postponement of Dolly’s Las Vegas residency to 2026.

In a Facebook post, Freida expressed her worry, writing, “Last night, I was up all night praying for my sister, Dolly. Many of you know she hasn’t been feeling her best lately.” She emphasized her belief in the power of prayer, asking followers to join her in supporting Dolly. “She’s strong, she’s loved, and with all the prayers being lifted for her, I know in my heart she’s going to be just fine,” Freida added.

The request sparked confusion, prompting Freida to clarify that her message was not meant to cause alarm. “I didn’t mean to scare anyone or make it sound so serious,” she said. “She’s been a little under the weather, and I simply asked for prayers because I believe so strongly in the power of prayer.”

Dolly Parton confirmed in September that her Las Vegas residency, originally set to begin in December 2025, would be delayed until September 2026. In an Instagram post, she cited health challenges requiring medical procedures. “I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me I must have a few procedures,” she wrote. She humorously referred to the situation as “my 100,000-mile check-up” but stressed the delay was necessary to ensure a high-quality production.

Parton also reassured fans she would continue working from her Nashville home while recovering. “Don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet,” she said. The update comes days after the death of her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, who passed in March at age 82 after nearly six decades of marriage.