Miley Cyrus Pays Tribute to Godmother Dolly Parton: 'I Have an Angel by My Side'

Dolly Parton, the iconic singer-songwriter and actress, died on August 27, 2026, at the age of 79. Her passing was met with an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow musicians, among them her goddaughter Miley Cyrus.

Cyrus, who has often credited Parton as a guiding influence in her life and career, released a brief but poignant statement through her representatives. The statement read: 'I have an angel by my side. I always have.' In the same message, Cyrus reportedly said, 'I will always love her and want to make her proud,' echoing the title of one of Parton's most famous songs.

The relationship between Cyrus and Parton spanned decades. Parton became Cyrus's godmother after working with the Cyrus family on the television series 'Hannah Montana,' where Parton made a guest appearance. Over the years, the two performed together on several occasions, including a duet of 'Jolene' and a cover of 'The Climb.' Parton often spoke of Cyrus with maternal affection, calling her a 'spirited, talented girl' and a 'natural-born star.'

Parton's death marks the end of an era in American music. With a career that began in the 1960s, she wrote thousands of songs, including classics like 'Jolene,' '9 to 5,' and 'I Will Always Love You.' She was also a philanthropist, founding the Imagination Library, which has donated millions of books to children worldwide. Her legacy extends beyond music into film, television, and business, including the Dollywood theme park in Tennessee.

No cause of death has been announced publicly. The family has requested privacy during this time. Fans have begun to gather outside Dollywood and at her childhood home in Locust Ridge, Tennessee, to leave flowers and memorabilia.

Why This Matters

Dolly Parton was a once-in-a-generation artist whose influence crossed genres and generations — her death removes a towering figure from American culture.
Miley Cyrus's tribute underscores the deep personal bond between the two stars, highlighting how Parton mentored a younger artist and shaped modern pop-country.
The loss affects not only music fans but also the millions of children who benefited from Parton's literacy programs and the broader entertainment industry she helped build.

Background

Dolly Parton and Miley Cyrus's relationship began in the mid-2000s when Parton guest-starred on 'Hannah Montana,' the Disney Channel show that launched Cyrus's career. Parton, who was already a close friend of the Cyrus family, became Miley's godmother. Over the years, Parton offered guidance and public support, often praising Cyrus's talent and resilience. The two collaborated on stage and in the studio, with Cyrus covering Parton's songs and Parton appearing on Cyrus's New Year's Eve specials. Parton's death at 79 follows a long career that made her one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with more than 100 million records sold worldwide. She was also a prolific songwriter and a successful businesswoman, owning Dollywood and the Dolly Parton stampede dinner theaters. Her health had been a topic of speculation in recent years, but she remained active in her work until the end.

Key Perspectives

[Miley Cyrus and the Cyrus family]: Heartbroken loss of a beloved godmother and mentor; Cyrus's statement emphasizes Parton's enduring spiritual presence and her commitment to honoring Parton's legacy. [The music industry and fans]: An irreplaceable icon has passed. Tributes from fellow artists like Willie Nelson, Reba McEntire, and Taylor Swift are expected to pour in. Fans mourn the loss of a down-to-earth legend who bridged country and pop. [Dollywood and philanthropy]: Parton's business and charitable operations face a future without its founder. The Imagination Library, now a global program, will need to continue under new leadership; Dollywood's long-term direction may be affected.

What to Watch

Memorial services and public tributes, including a possible state funeral in Tennessee given Parton's status as a cultural treasure.
Statements from the Dollywood Foundation and the Imagination Library about the future of Parton's charitable initiatives.
The release of any posthumous music or recordings Parton may have left behind, as she was known to work on projects well into her later years.
How the Cyrus family and other close friends publicly honor Parton in the coming weeks, including any planned performances or dedications.

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