Dolly Parton’s husband Carl Dean, her partner of 58 years, died on March 3, 2025 at age 82.
The famously private couple’s love thrived on mutual respect and space. Since his passing, Dolly has been open about her deep grief, pausing new music and creative projects despite having “beautiful ideas” she can’t yet finish.
She released one tribute song, “If You Hadn’t Been There,” and says inspiration will return when her heart is ready.
Yet she’s moving forward: Dolly is heading back to Las Vegas for her first residency in over 30 years.
In her sorrow, she’s showing us all it’s okay to pause, grieve fully, and trust that light—and music—will come again. ❤️
