Dolly Parton, Queen of Country and cultural icon, dies at 80

Dolly Parton, a musician who defined the country genre and was known as the Queen of Country, has died.

She was 80.

Her nephew Brian Seaver announced her death through a video message posted on her Instagram.

“My name is Brian Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, and I’m representing the Parton and Owens family today announcing the passing of my aunt, Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean, Sister, Sis and Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next."

“Rest in peace, Aunt Dolly — Aunt, Granny, Gigi. May God bless Dolly Parton, and may God bless you all. She will always love you,” he said at the end of the message.

The shocking announcement comes after the global icon has been dealing with health problems that she previously discussed on several occasions.

Her condition was ostensibly so fragile that it was having an impact on her career.

For example, she axed a scheduled appearance in Las Vegas last May because she had been undergoing treatment for kidney stones.

However, the rise of the Tennessee-born star was nothing short of a rollercoaster.

She was the fourth child of her parents' 12 children and was raised in a single-room cabin, underscoring her family's financial struggles.

During her teenage years, Parton was putting her skills on display on local radio and television.

Then she shot to stardom in the 1970s when she performed Jolene and I Will Always Love You.

Beyond the music, Parton also stepped into Hollywood.

Starred in 9 to 5, Steel Magnolias, and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.

But she didn't stop at creativity; she also had a keen business acumen.

Her $650 million fortune, which she built, includes an entertainment empire centered on her persona and Dollywood, a theme park in her hometown.

Additionally, the musician had a rich history in philanthropy. Her Dollywood Foundation backed several education and poverty-relief programs.

With a career spanning over six decades, Parton became a cultural force and an icon whose influence is etched in history papers and lives on for generations.