Miley Cyrus has broken her silence following the death of her godmother, country music legend Dolly Parton, with a deeply personal tribute posted to social media. In the emotional message, Cyrus described the loss as 'beyond what feels right to share' and emphasized the private nature of their most cherished moments, writing: 'Our most sacred moments were private and they’ll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts.'
The 'Wrecking Ball' singer reflected on Parton's enduring influence, noting that the country icon would want her to channel her grief into creativity. 'What I KNOW is Dolly would want me to feel it, write a song about it, and then continue on and be strong,' Cyrus wrote. She added, 'I have an angel by my side. I always have. One of our last conversations was about music and metamorphosis.'
Cyrus concluded her tribute with a vow to honor Parton's legacy: 'I will always love her and want to make her proud. My heart breaks for the world, her family and friends who will miss her deeply. We’re in this loss together and we will see her in all of the most beautiful things.'
A Bond Forged Before Miley Was Born
The connection between the two Tennessee natives predates Miley's birth. In 1992, Parton joined Billy Ray Cyrus on tour as he promoted his breakout hit 'Achy Breaky Heart.' During that tour, tabloid rumors suggested a romantic link between the two, but when Billy Ray confronted Parton about it, she famously replied, 'Honey, that’s what sells records.' That moment, he later told journalist Dan Rather, was the start of a lasting friendship.
Years later, Parton appeared as Aunt Dolly on the Disney Channel series 'Hannah Montana,' cementing her role as a mentor and maternal figure to Miley. From that point on, Miley affectionately referred to Parton as her godmother and fairy godmother.
A Legacy of Collaboration and Mutual Admiration
Over the past two decades, the pair collaborated musically on multiple occasions. In 2017, Parton featured on Miley's song 'Rainbowland,' and the 11-time Grammy winner also recorded a cover of 'Wrecking Ball.' Just seven months ago, Parton re-recorded her classic 'Light of a Clear Blue Morning' alongside Cyrus, Queen Latifah, Reba McEntire, and Lainey Wilson.
Parton passed away on Tuesday after a brief battle with cancer, just over a year after the death of her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Thomas Dean. She is survived by her siblings and numerous nieces and nephews.
The country music world and beyond has been quick to honor Parton's life and career. Dolly Parton's death at 80 has prompted an outpouring of tributes, including from political leaders. President Biden led tributes, calling her an 'American original,' and flags have been ordered at half-staff for a week in her honor.
Parton's philanthropic efforts, including her Imagination Library book program, are set to continue, ensuring her legacy extends far beyond her music.
