Friends and insiders are deeply concerned for music legend Dolly Parton as she continues to grapple with profound grief following the death of her beloved husband, Carl Dean.
A Heartfelt Loss
Carl Thomas Dean, Parton's famously reclusive spouse, passed away at the age of 82 on March 3, 2025. The country icon, now 79, has spoken openly about the loss, describing it as leaving a 'hole in my heart'. According to a source speaking to Radar Online, the depth of her sorrow is worrying those close to her.
'She's desperately trying to rally herself back to work, but it is very difficult. The loss is hitting her so hard. Her friends are very worried,' the insider revealed. They added that Dean's passing had 'knocked the wind right out of her.'
Missed Events and Health Challenges
Parton's struggle was highlighted recently when she was unable to attend the Governor's Ball in person to accept a prestigious honorary Oscar. She had been scheduled to receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award but instead accepted the honour virtually via a pre-recorded segment.
An insider indicated that Parton was 'sad' to miss the event but 'simply could not handle going, which tells you just how bad it is.' This follows a series of health-related postponements, including her Las Vegas residency and a trip to Dollywood in September 2024, after she needed to recover from a kidney stone.
A Love Story For The Ages
Parton and Dean shared one of entertainment's most enduring love stories. They first met in Nashville in 1964 at a laundromat, describing it as love at first sight. The couple married two years later in 1966 and renewed their vows in May 2016 to celebrate their golden anniversary.
In the wake of his death, Parton paid tribute, stating, 'Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years.' She later shared with Knox News that Dean had 'suffered a great deal' towards the end of his life, adding, 'I'm at peace that he's at peace, but that don't keep me from missing him and loving him.'
Despite reports of a 'long list' of suitors expressing interest, sources confirm Parton has 'zero interest' in pursuing a new relationship. For now, the beloved star is focused on navigating her loss, cherishing six decades of memories, and slowly finding a way forward without her lifelong partner.
