Dolly Parton has announced that she will be stepping away from live performances indefinitely as she focuses on her health and ongoing medical treatments.
In a heartfelt Instagram video shared with fans, the country music icon revealed that she is currently responding well to medications and treatments but needs additional time to recover before returning to the stage. Parton explained that some of the medications have left her feeling "swimmy-headed," making it difficult to perform safely during demanding live shows.
The announcement also confirms the cancellation of her highly anticipated "Dolly: Live in Las Vegas" residency at Caesars Palace. The six-show engagement had previously been postponed before ultimately being canceled as the singer continues prioritizing her health and recovery.
While Parton did not disclose a detailed diagnosis, reports indicate she has recently dealt with kidney stones and additional complications affecting her immune and digestive systems. Despite the setback, the beloved entertainer reassured fans that she is improving and remains hopeful about the future.
"I ain't dead yet," Parton joked in her trademark optimistic style, comparing herself to "an old classic car" that simply needs restoration before getting back on the road.
Though stepping away from live performances, Parton emphasized that she is still actively involved in several creative projects. The legendary singer-songwriter continues working on Dolly: A True Original Musical, the upcoming stage musical based on her life and career, along with additional projects connected to her growing entertainment empire in Nashville and Tennessee.
The announcement comes during an emotional chapter for Parton following the passing of her husband, Carl Dean, in 2025. Fans and fellow artists across the music industry have continued flooding social media with prayers and messages of support for the 80-year-old superstar.
Widely regarded as one of the most beloved figures in music history, Dolly Parton has spent more than six decades entertaining audiences around the world with timeless songs such as "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," and "I Will Always Love You." Beyond music, she is also celebrated for her philanthropy, including the globally recognized Imagination Library literacy initiative.
Although no timeline has been given for a possible return to touring or live performances, Parton thanked fans for their continued love, patience, and prayers as she focuses on her health and recovery.
