Dolly Parton Shares Heartfelt Message About Missing Her 80th Birthday Opry Show
Dolly Parton in January 2026.
Credit:
Grand Ole Opry/Instagram
### Dolly Parton to Miss 80th Birthday Celebration at Grand Ole Opry
Dolly Parton has announced that she will not attend her 80th birthday celebration at the Grand Ole Opry. The country music icon, who turns 80 on January 19, expressed her gratitude for the event in a heartfelt Instagram video shared on January 8.
In the message, Parton conveyed, “Well hey there Grand Ole Opry family. I just wanted to say how much it means to me that you’re all coming together again this year to celebrate my big ol’ birthday with some of my songs.”
Parton reminisced about her cherished memories at the Opry, stating, “Some of my favorite memories happened right here on stage at the Grand Ole Opry, and I wish I could be there in person but I’ll be sending you all my love.”
She concluded her message with warm wishes for those attending, encouraging them to “have the best night ever.”
The celebration is scheduled for January 17 and has drawn attention within the country music community. Featured performers include Vince Gill, Lainey Wilson, Rhonda Vincent, and songwriter Trannie Anderson. The event will also highlight an “80 Years of Song” retail collection in collaboration with Parton, available for pre-order.
While the Grand Ole Opry confirmed Parton’s absence in the comments, they assured fans that the celebration would be filled with music, tributes, and fun. Highlights will include birthday party cupcakes, a large birthday card for fans to sign, photo opportunities with a Parton impersonator, and themed drinks.
Parton’s announcement comes on the heels of her decision to postpone her Las Vegas residency due to health concerns following a kidney stone-related infection, which will now be held in September 2026.
Despite recent health challenges, a source close to the 79-year-old artist shared that “Dolly is getting better every day,” and she is surrounded by friends and family during her recovery. Reflecting on her upcoming milestone birthday, Parton noted, “People say, ‘Well, you’re going to be 80 years old.’ Well, so what? Look at all I’ve done in 80 years. I feel like I’m just getting started.”
As the country music community prepares for this special celebration, fans will undoubtedly feel the absence of their beloved star while honoring her legacy through song and celebration.
