Miley Cyrus Pays Tribute to Dolly Parton After Her Death

Miley Cyrus has paid heartfelt tribute to her godmother, the late Dolly Parton, following the beloved country music icon’s passing at the age of 80. In an emotional message shared on Instagram, Cyrus expressed her sorrow and gratitude, stating, “I have an angel by my side. 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.”

Dolly Parton had a significant influence on Cyrus’s life, having been a part of her world since her infancy. The connection began when Cyrus’ father, Billy Ray Cyrus, toured with Parton during the 1990s and asked her to be his daughter’s godmother before Cyrus was even born.

As Cyrus grew older, her relationship with Parton deepened, notably on the set of the Disney Channel show “Hannah Montana,” where Parton guest-starred as Aunt Dolly. Reflecting on their experiences, Cyrus remarked during a March 2026 interview, “My favorite episodes are the ones with Dolly. That’s how her and I became as close as we are.”

Parton was always supportive of Cyrus, even as she transitioned into adulthood and faced public scrutiny over her evolving image. In a statement made to Variety in March, Parton congratulated Cyrus on her anniversary special, declaring, “When Miley told me she was doing [the anniversary special], I jumped up and down and thought what a brilliant idea. I am so proud of her. We all love Hannah Montana and we all love Miley, so how can it miss? Congratulations girl. I love you, Aunt Dolly.”

Throughout Cyrus’ career, Parton remained a close mentor and collaborator. The two artists often took the stage together, performing tracks like “Jolene” on various occasions, including “The Voice,” the 2019 Grammys, and “Miley’s New Year’s Eve Party” in 2022. They also co-wrote the song “Rainbowland” for Cyrus’s 2017 album “Younger Now,” and collaborated on Parton’s 2020 Christmas album.

In addition to their musical collaborations, Parton provided unwavering support for Cyrus during turbulent times. Reflecting on her growth, Parton once said, “If I didn’t know how smart and talented Miley is, I might worry about her. But I’ve watched her grow up. So I don’t. She knows what she’s doing. She was very proud of the work she did as Hannah Montana, but people were gonna leave her there forever.”

Dolly Parton’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through the countless lives she touched, including Miley Cyrus, who now carries forward the memories and lessons imparted by her beloved godmother.