Dolly Parton’s sister calls for prayers as country legend battles health issues and cancels LA appearances

Country music icon Dolly Parton has paused several appearances to focus on her health, and now her sister is asking fans around the world to join her in prayer.

Freida Parton took to Facebook to share a heartfelt message alongside a photo of her famous sister, urging followers to send love and strength to the beloved Jolene singer.

“Last night, I was up all night praying for my sister, Dolly,” Freida wrote.

“Many of you know she hasn’t been feeling her best lately. I truly believe in the power of prayer, and I have been led to ask all of the world that loves her to be prayer warriors and pray with me.”

Freida continued, “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. Godspeed, my sissy Dolly. We all love you!”

In September, the 79-year-old star was forced to cancel a planned appearance at Dollywood after suffering complications from kidney stones, The National News Desk reported.

Parton had been scheduled to attend the announcement of the new Night Flight Expedition ride, set to open in 2026 at her Tennessee theme park, but stayed home on doctor’s orders.

In a video message played for fans at the event, Dolly explained, “I had a kidney stone that was causing me a lot of problems, turned out it’d given me an infection, and the doctor said, ‘You don’t need to be travelling right this minute, so you need a few days to get better.’”

Reassuring her fans, she added, “He suggested I not go to Dollywood today, but I’m there with you in spirit. I was looking so forward to it. Don’t worry about me, I’m gonna be okay. Just can’t do it today.”

Earlier this month, Dolly also announced she would be delaying her six-date residency at The Colosseum in Las Vegas, originally scheduled for December.

Dubbed “Dolly: Live in Las Vegas,” the shows were set for December 4, 6, 7, 10, 12 and 13.

In a statement on social media, she told fans, “As many of you know, I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures. As I joked with them, it must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up, although it’s not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon!

The statement continued: In all seriousness, given this, I am not going to be able to rehearse and put together the show that I want you to see, and the show that you deserve to see. You pay good money to see me perform, and I want to be at my best for you.”

Parton assured fans she has no plans to retire, saying she just needs “a little time to get show-ready.”

“And don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet,” she said.

“But, I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you. I love you and thank you for understanding.”

Parton has also been grieving the loss of her beloved husband, Carl Dean, who passed away on March 3, 2025, at the age of 82.

Known for his quiet nature and steadfast devotion, Carl spent nearly 60 years by Parton’s side, offering unwavering love and support while choosing a life out of the spotlight.

Just days later, Parton released a heartfelt new song, If You Hadn’t Been There, in his honour. The emotional ballad captures the depth of their lifelong bond, with lyrics that read, “I wouldn’t be here if you hadn’t been there, holding my hand, showing you care.”

In a touching Instagram post, Parton wrote, “I fell in love with Carl Dean when I was 18 years old. We have spent 60 precious and meaningful years together. Like all great love stories, they never end — they live on in memory and song. He will always be the star of my life story, and I dedicate this song to him.”