Dolly Parton, the iconic country artist, has been married to her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, for an impressive 57 years. Despite their long and happy marriage, the couple never had children. Dolly Parton recently revealed why in a candid interview.
In 1982, Parton experienced severe abdominal pain and bleeding. Concerned about her health, she canceled her tour and underwent a partial hysterectomy in 1984. It was during this procedure that she learned she would never be able to have children. Understandably, this news took a toll on Parton, and she struggled with depression for two years.
She believed that her inability to become a mother was a sign from God, telling her to slow down and focus on managing her life. Before her diagnosis, she and her husband had even discussed their plans for starting a family and even had a name picked out for their future daughter, Carla.
However, as time went on, Parton and her husband accepted their fate and found happiness in not having children. Parton reflects on how becoming a mother would have meant giving up her thriving career. She shares that she believed having children would have put an end to her musical journey.
Although Dolly Parton never became a biological mother, she found fulfillment in being a godmother to another legendary singer—Miley Cyrus. Parton and Billy Ray Cyrus, Miley’s father and a close friend of Parton’s, had a special bond. When Miley was born, Billy Ray asked Parton to be Miley’s fairy godmother, a role Parton enthusiastically embraced.
Parton took her duties as Miley’s godmother seriously. She provided guidance and support to Miley during her rise to fame as Hannah Montana. Parton was impressed by Miley’s professionalism and witnessed her handle success and wealth at such a young age without being negatively affected by it. The godmother and goddaughter shared a unique connection and learned from each other.
Reflecting on her time as Miley’s godmother, Parton said, “Here I am, you know, Miley’s fairy godmother, and (I’m) on the show, kind of sharing all that with her. For me, watching her being such a pro, she didn’t know it, but I was watching her like a proud mama, thinking, ‘You go, you little thing! I’m so proud of you.’”
Miley Cyrus credits Dolly Parton for helping her stay grounded and inspiring her to be respectful and love people. Parton not only imparted her wisdom but also defended Cyrus when she wanted to break away from her child star image.
According to Parton, Miley is like her in many ways and she admires Miley’s songwriting skills and voice. Parton wanted Cyrus to follow her dreams and never let anyone dictate her choices. She encouraged Miley to pave her own path and be true to herself.
Their bond grew stronger, and in 2022, Miley and Parton co-hosted a TV special called “Miley’s New Year’s Eve Party: Legendary” on NBC. When Miley expressed her desire to dye her hair brunette and shared her intentions with Parton, Parton simply said, “You can’t do that. You are me.” Miley remained a blonde, honoring her godmother’s wishes.
Miley expressed her gratitude and admiration for her godmother on social media and during collaborations. She considers Dolly Parton her idol and role model. In particular, Miley felt honored to have the opportunity to duet with Parton on the song “Wrecking Ball” and shared her love and appreciation for her “Aunt Dolly.”
Dolly Parton reciprocated the love and said she was honored to sing with Miley. She described Miley as the most gifted person she knows and expressed her pride in her goddaughter’s achievements.
The bond between Dolly Parton and Miley Cyrus is a testament to the power of friendship and mentorship. Parton’s role as Miley’s fairy godmother has had a profound impact on both their lives. Through her guidance and support, Parton has helped shape Miley into the successful and grounded artist she is today.
What do you think of this inspiring relationship? Let us know in the comments below.
