Dolly Parton does whatever she wants to do: ‘I don’t care that I’m famous..,’
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
At 78, Dolly Parton is not just a country music legend; she’s an icon who embodies the spirit of living life on her terms. Despite being one of the most recognized figures in the world, Parton refuses to let fame dictate how she navigates her everyday life. In a recent interview with E! News, the “Jolene” hitmaker shared her unfiltered views on fame, privacy, and the world around her.
“Anything I really want to do, then I’ll do it. I don’t care that I’m famous,” Parton confidently stated. Her words echo the attitude of someone who has long transcended the trappings of celebrity. For Parton, the lack of anonymity that comes with her global fame isn’t a barrier but rather a mere inconvenience she’s learned to shrug off. This candid perspective is a testament to her grounded nature, even after decades in the spotlight.
Having been married to Carl Thomas Dean since 1966, Parton’s personal life has often been shielded from public view, a choice that has allowed her to maintain a sense of normalcy. However, in a world where privacy is increasingly rare, Parton remains unfazed by her fame, choosing instead to focus on what truly matters to her.
When asked what scares her in life, Parton didn’t hesitate to speak about the challenges of living in today’s world. “It scares me that people are not better to one another and that we have to live in a world where people are nuts and crazy,” she admitted. Her words reflect a deep concern for the state of humanity, highlighting the struggles we all face in trying to navigate a world filled with unpredictability and chaos.
Despite these concerns, Parton’s career is a beacon of positivity and resilience. With nearly 50 studio albums under her belt, she’s enjoyed countless milestones, but one particular achievement stands out even after more than five decades—the moment she became a member of the Grand Ole Opry in Tennessee.
“Well, I’m proud of all of them, but I think one of the things that remains with me is that when I was younger, I wanted to be a member of the Grand Ole Opry,” Parton reflected. “So when I became a member back in the late 60s, to me, that’s still a highlight of my life.” This membership was a dream come true for the young girl from Tennessee, symbolizing her acceptance into the heart of country music.
But what if things had turned out differently? What if Dolly Parton had never made it in show business? In her typically humorous and humble fashion, she confessed, “Had I not been in showbusiness, if I hadn’t made it, I probably would have been a beautician because I still would’ve had all that hair and makeup.”
It’s hard to imagine a world where Dolly Parton isn’t a music legend, but her down-to-earth musings remind us that she’s just like anyone else—with dreams, fears, and a love for a little glamor. Whether on stage or off, Parton’s life is a testament to the power of staying true to oneself, no matter how famous you become.