Dolly Parton has long been an icon — not just for her contributions to country music and her unforgettable stage presence, but also for her resilience and spirit. Even in 2025, she continues to engage new generations, collaborating with Sabrina Carpenter on “Please Please Please.”
Tragically, Dolly’s personal life took a painful turn when her husband of nearly six decades, Carl Thomas Dean, passed away on March 3, 2025. In an Instagram post, she shared, “Carl and I spent many wonderful years together. Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.” The statement continued, “The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time.”
In the months since, Dolly has been candid about the toll her loss has taken, admitting in a video that she let her health slide while mourning Carl. In 2025, she postponed her Las Vegas residency and missed several appearances due to issues with kidney stones and infection, citing the need for medical procedures and recovery time.
I ain’t dead yet! pic.twitter.com/Mp553laadI
— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) October 8, 2025
Learn more about her net worth, age, and Carl’s age below.
Dolly Parton’s Net Worth
Dolly has a net worth of $650 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
How Old Is Dolly Parton?
Dolly is 80 years old. She celebrated her 80th birthday on January 19, 2025.
How Old Was Carl Thomas Dean?
Carl was 82 at the time of his passing. He and Dolly had been married since 1966, keeping their relationship mostly private over the years.
Does Dolly Parton Have Children?
Dolly never had children. In a 2020 interview with Oprah Winfrey for The Oprah Conversationon Apple TV, she explained her decision.“I didn’t have children because I believed that God didn’t mean for me to have kids so everybody’s kids could be mine, so I could do things like Imagination Library because if I hadn’t had the freedom to work, I wouldn’t have done all the things I’ve done,” Dolly said. “I wouldn’t be in a position to do all of the things I’m doing now.”
She added, “Since I had no kids, and my husband was pretty independent, I had freedom.” The singer continued, “So I think a big part of my whole success is the fact that I was free to work.”