Dolly Parton: Ricky Schroder slammed as a ‘tool’ over politically charged tribute to late country music icon
An American actor has sparked fierce backlash over an Instagram tribute to Dolly Parton, with critics accusing him of turning the music legend’s death into a political statement.
Ricky Schroder has sparked fierce backlash over an Instagram tribute to Dolly Parton, with critics accusing the actor of turning the music legend’s death into a political statement.
Schroder, 56, shared a photo of himself with Parton following her death at age 80 on August 25, but an accompanying message highlighting their differences over transgender rights and COVID-19 vaccines quickly drew criticism
“I didn’t agree with her advocating for Transgender & Covid Vaccine support…but Loved her anyway,” Schroder wrote in the post’s caption.
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The actor had a professional and personal connection with Parton after he portrayed her father, Robert lee Parton, in the television films Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colours and Dolly Parton’s Christmas of Many Colours: Circle of Love.
Schroder’s post prompted a wave of angry responses from celebrities who aired their disapproval over his decision to mention his disagreements while remembering Parton.
“’I loved her anyway’ what a strange tribute. Good Lord,” wrote The Walking Dead star, Jay Huguley.
Journalist and online commentator, Billie Vino, chimed in, saying: “And to think that Dolly loved you and didn’t judge you..”
Fans were equally enraged by the post and shared their thoughts in the comments.
“DOUBLE Ick,” one person wrote.
“Honestly dude, please just sit down and be quiet. Honor her or don’t. This is weird,” said another.
A third simply added: “God, you’re a tool.”
“Wow !!! Why are you making her death about your beliefs? Just like the great woman she was I will let God judge you . This just gives me the ick,” another wrote.
Parton had long been associated with messages of acceptance and support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The star was also known for her contribution to COVID-19 vaccine research after she donated $1 million to Vanderbilt University Medical Centre, which helped fund the Moderna vaccine.
But Schroder appeared to be unfazed by the backlash as he followed up the post with an Instagram Story describing his disapproval over her role in the vaccine’s inception.
“I warned Dolly to not support the Experiment,” he wrote on Thursday over a video of Parton speaking about getting the Moderna vaccine, news.com.au reports.
“Wished she listened,” he wrote beside a frowning emoji.
