In 1976, Dolly Parton took a major step forward in her career when she became the host of her own variety show. While this was not her first time on television — she appeared on Porter Wagoner’s show for years — it was her first experience at the helm of a show. Unfortunately, it was not a pleasant working experience for Parton or many of the other people involved.
People were not happy on the set of Dolly Parton’s show
Parton was thrilled to begin work on her 1976 variety show, Dolly. Unfortunately, the experience of working on it was not what she had hoped.
“Everybody workin’ on the show became miserable,” Parton’s guitarist Tom Rutledge said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “It wasn’t organized well, and it was time-consuming. They had a lot of technical difficulties. They wanted a more contemporary show, and that’s why they...
People were not happy on the set of Dolly Parton’s show
Parton was thrilled to begin work on her 1976 variety show, Dolly. Unfortunately, the experience of working on it was not what she had hoped.
“Everybody workin’ on the show became miserable,” Parton’s guitarist Tom Rutledge said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “It wasn’t organized well, and it was time-consuming. They had a lot of technical difficulties. They wanted a more contemporary show, and that’s why they...
- 6/12/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In the 1970s, Dolly Parton toured with her Traveling Family Band, a group made up of her relatives. Parton liked having them on the road with her, but their presence in her touring life caused problems. Her guitarist, who was not related to her, said Parton seemed to be afraid to make requests of her family members. They didn’t feel the same way about making demands of her.
Dolly Parton felt bad telling her family band what to do
Parton’s Uncle Louis ran her business affairs for a time, but quickly proved he wasn’t capable of carrying out the job. Parton’s band leader, Bill Rehrig, took over Louis’ responsibilities. When he did, Parton asked him to take some duties away from her, too.
“Dolly didn’t know how to deal with the family without putting them off,” guitarist Tom Rutledge said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
Dolly Parton felt bad telling her family band what to do
Parton’s Uncle Louis ran her business affairs for a time, but quickly proved he wasn’t capable of carrying out the job. Parton’s band leader, Bill Rehrig, took over Louis’ responsibilities. When he did, Parton asked him to take some duties away from her, too.
“Dolly didn’t know how to deal with the family without putting them off,” guitarist Tom Rutledge said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
- 6/11/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In the early stages of Dolly Parton’s career, she dressed with consideration for how her dad might view her outfits. While she liked tight, sparkling costumes, she wanted to ensure that her outfits had high necklines. She tried to avoid wearing things that she thought would agitate her father.
Dolly Parton preferred her outfits to have high necklines because of her dad
When Parton accepted a position on The Porter Wagoner Show, she began working with designer Lucy Adams and seamstress Judy Hunt. They grew familiar with her tastes and personal style.
“If she could reach down and pick it up, it was too loose,” Adams said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “If she’d left it up to me, I wouldn’t have done that. Sometimes I’d make things and think they fit real nice, but she’d say they were too big, for me to take them up more.
Dolly Parton preferred her outfits to have high necklines because of her dad
When Parton accepted a position on The Porter Wagoner Show, she began working with designer Lucy Adams and seamstress Judy Hunt. They grew familiar with her tastes and personal style.
“If she could reach down and pick it up, it was too loose,” Adams said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “If she’d left it up to me, I wouldn’t have done that. Sometimes I’d make things and think they fit real nice, but she’d say they were too big, for me to take them up more.
- 6/10/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton has been a prolific writer all her life, able to crank out lyrics to as many as 20 songs in one day. She finds the process of writing to be very therapeutic and feels deeply as she works on songs. While some of what she writes about is pure fiction, she also draws inspiration from her life and experiences. Parton said people would be shocked to hear which of her lyrics are pulled directly from her real life.
Dolly Parton said she shows her real self in her lyrics
Parton has been writing songs since she was a child. She takes time every day to write something, no matter where she is. Everyone in Parton’s life knows how important writing is to her.
“People don’t realize how serious a songwriter she is and how much writing means to her,” her makeup artist Jo Coulter said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
Dolly Parton said she shows her real self in her lyrics
Parton has been writing songs since she was a child. She takes time every day to write something, no matter where she is. Everyone in Parton’s life knows how important writing is to her.
“People don’t realize how serious a songwriter she is and how much writing means to her,” her makeup artist Jo Coulter said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
- 6/9/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In the 1970s, Dolly Parton and her band toured for weeks at a time. The schedule was grueling and had everyone living out of a bus. While it wasn’t easy, members of Parton’s band said they couldn’t have been traveling with a better person. Her former guitarist shared what it was like to tour with Parton.
Dolly Parton’s band said touring with her was very enjoyable
Parton worked with her Traveling Family Band for a time, hiring siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles to join her on the road. Not every member of her band was related to her, though. Guitarist Tom Rutledge, who was not a member of the Parton family, said he never felt like an outsider.
“eing the kind of person she is, in an effort to keep those of us who weren’t family members from feeling like we were second-class citizens, she...
Dolly Parton’s band said touring with her was very enjoyable
Parton worked with her Traveling Family Band for a time, hiring siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles to join her on the road. Not every member of her band was related to her, though. Guitarist Tom Rutledge, who was not a member of the Parton family, said he never felt like an outsider.
“eing the kind of person she is, in an effort to keep those of us who weren’t family members from feeling like we were second-class citizens, she...
- 6/7/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When Dolly Parton played concerts in the 1970s, she won the audience over with jokes and banter that was, according to her guitarist, often pre-written. She repeated the same jokes to her band show after show. While these lines got a laugh from a fresh audience, her band members began to tire of them. Tom Rutledge, her guitarist, said he could scarcely listen back to a recording of one concert.
Dolly Parton’s guitarist cringed when he listened to one of her concerts
In between songs during her concerts, Parton chatted to her audience and band members. The jokes were often, as a New York Times critic put it, “appallingly corny.” Rutledge said they were typically only funny when they went off-script.
“One of the rare cases when I remember anything funny happening on the stage is when Randy [Parton] screwed up [a key] line,” Rutledge said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
Dolly Parton’s guitarist cringed when he listened to one of her concerts
In between songs during her concerts, Parton chatted to her audience and band members. The jokes were often, as a New York Times critic put it, “appallingly corny.” Rutledge said they were typically only funny when they went off-script.
“One of the rare cases when I remember anything funny happening on the stage is when Randy [Parton] screwed up [a key] line,” Rutledge said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
- 6/6/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Exclusive: Man Alive Entertainment is set to become the latest UK producer to close its doors amid the content slowdown.
Founded by former Channel 4 entertainment chief Justin Gorman, Man Alive has filed for voluntary liquidation after nine years of trading. Insolvency firm Wilson Field is overseeing the closure.
Man Alive launched with investment from Fremantle in 2015, but financial filings show that the European super producer divested its 25% stake last year.
Dolly Parton: Here I Am, a 2019 BBC documentary with exclusive access to the country music icon, was among Man Alive’s most notable projects.
The company also produced Discovery+ series The Faking Dead and Stand Up To Cancer content for Channel 4.
Man Alive founder Gorman has been contacted for comment. Fremantle had no comment.
A number of UK producers have closed in recent months. Deadline revealed in April that Zig Zag, the 25-year-old indie behind shows including Fox‘s I Wanna Marry Harry,...
Founded by former Channel 4 entertainment chief Justin Gorman, Man Alive has filed for voluntary liquidation after nine years of trading. Insolvency firm Wilson Field is overseeing the closure.
Man Alive launched with investment from Fremantle in 2015, but financial filings show that the European super producer divested its 25% stake last year.
Dolly Parton: Here I Am, a 2019 BBC documentary with exclusive access to the country music icon, was among Man Alive’s most notable projects.
The company also produced Discovery+ series The Faking Dead and Stand Up To Cancer content for Channel 4.
Man Alive founder Gorman has been contacted for comment. Fremantle had no comment.
A number of UK producers have closed in recent months. Deadline revealed in April that Zig Zag, the 25-year-old indie behind shows including Fox‘s I Wanna Marry Harry,...
- 6/6/2024
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Emmylou Harris and Dolly Parton worked together on an album for the first time in 1987. Years before this, though, Harris was growing to be a big fan of Parton. She praised her voice and writing, noting that she could imbue her work with powerful emotions. Harris pointed to one song in particular that nearly brought tears to her eyes. She said it was so good that it almost wasn’t fair.
Emmylou Harris said a Dolly Parton song nearly made her weep
In the early days of Parton’s career, Harris spent so much time publicly praising her that Parton joked she should pay her for the good press.
“I just think she’s a marvelous writer,” Harris said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “I mean, if nothing else, she’s a marvelous writer, and an incredible singer, but then she’s also amazing because of the way...
Emmylou Harris said a Dolly Parton song nearly made her weep
In the early days of Parton’s career, Harris spent so much time publicly praising her that Parton joked she should pay her for the good press.
“I just think she’s a marvelous writer,” Harris said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “I mean, if nothing else, she’s a marvelous writer, and an incredible singer, but then she’s also amazing because of the way...
- 6/4/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton’s Make-Up Artist ‘Almost Fainted’ When She Saw the Major Change Parton Made to Her Hair
While the public rarely sees Dolly Parton without a wig on, the people close to her have seen her natural hair. The hairstyles she likes to achieve are easier to achieve with wigs, and she damaged her hair by continually dying it. Earlier in her career, though, she wore her natural hair long. When she made a major change to it, she nearly caused her make-up artist to faint.
Dolly Parton made a surprising change to her hair
Parton has been wearing wigs for years. She said that she began to rely on hair pieces as soon as she could.
“I always wore my hair all teased up,” she wrote in the book, Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics. “Whenever that style started, I was the first to get my hair all poofy. Then as soon as I could buy those hairpieces and wigs, I wanted them. For one thing,...
Dolly Parton made a surprising change to her hair
Parton has been wearing wigs for years. She said that she began to rely on hair pieces as soon as she could.
“I always wore my hair all teased up,” she wrote in the book, Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics. “Whenever that style started, I was the first to get my hair all poofy. Then as soon as I could buy those hairpieces and wigs, I wanted them. For one thing,...
- 6/3/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner began working together in 1967 and formed a very close professional relationship. They had such good chemistry on The Porter Wagoner Show and in their duets that many wondered if they were having an affair. Parton denied this, but she admitted that they fought like a married couple. Wagoner was also extremely possessive over Parton. During an appearance on The Tonight Show, he didn’t allow anyone to ask her any questions.
Porter Wagoner didn’t let Dolly Parton talk during an interview
Part of the reason Wagoner hired Parton was for her image, and he wanted to make sure she kept up appearances. He was “totally protective — both of her and of her image,” said Nashville agent Dolores Smiley in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. He wouldn’t even allow her to appear on the cover of a magazine that included advertisements for clubs that served alcohol.
Porter Wagoner didn’t let Dolly Parton talk during an interview
Part of the reason Wagoner hired Parton was for her image, and he wanted to make sure she kept up appearances. He was “totally protective — both of her and of her image,” said Nashville agent Dolores Smiley in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. He wouldn’t even allow her to appear on the cover of a magazine that included advertisements for clubs that served alcohol.
- 6/2/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton almost never steps out in public in casual clothes and natural makeup. The singer has favored towering wigs, bright eye makeup, and sequined clothing for most of her career. She believes this style suits her best, and hasn’t changed it much over the years. When asked why she doesn’t go out looking more natural, Parton said she thought her appearance would disappoint people.
Dolly Parton said she wouldn’t want to show the public her natural appearance
Practically every time Parton is in public, she wears eye-catching clothing, sparkling makeup, and a wig. She explained she was hesitant to appear otherwise because people have come to expect the look from her.
“See, that’s my gimmick,” she said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “Me without my wig would be like Liberace in overalls. The public has come to expect me to look a certain way,...
Dolly Parton said she wouldn’t want to show the public her natural appearance
Practically every time Parton is in public, she wears eye-catching clothing, sparkling makeup, and a wig. She explained she was hesitant to appear otherwise because people have come to expect the look from her.
“See, that’s my gimmick,” she said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “Me without my wig would be like Liberace in overalls. The public has come to expect me to look a certain way,...
- 6/2/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton was proud of building her career on her own terms, but she noted that two other musicians helped her go far. While Parton denied that either of these artists influenced the decisions she made in her career, she said the publicity they gave her didn’t hurt. She joked that they did so much to bring her attention that she should have put them on her payroll.
Dolly Parton said two musicians gave her great publicity
In the 1970s, both Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt recorded versions of Parton’s songs. Their covers were successful — Harris’ version of “To Daddy” hit number three on the country charts — and brought attention to Parton’s writing. Both artists also spoke glowingly about how much they liked Parton.
“They were into my music before I even met either one of ’em,” she said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “And I think they’re super.
Dolly Parton said two musicians gave her great publicity
In the 1970s, both Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt recorded versions of Parton’s songs. Their covers were successful — Harris’ version of “To Daddy” hit number three on the country charts — and brought attention to Parton’s writing. Both artists also spoke glowingly about how much they liked Parton.
“They were into my music before I even met either one of ’em,” she said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “And I think they’re super.
- 6/2/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1973, Dolly Parton released “Jolene.” The song became a major hit for Parton and found crossover success with a pop audience. When people complimented her on releasing a new type of song, she felt a bit frustrated. She had been trying to release songs like “Jolene” for years.
Dolly Parton had to fight to write songs like ‘Jolene’
In 1967, Parton began working with Porter Wagoner on The Porter Wagoner Show. In their years of collaboration, they released a number of duets together, and they consistently entered the Top 10 on country charts. “Jolene” was a solo effort by Parton, but she said Wagoner helped with the song.
“I have a big part of the arrangements in the main bulk of my songs, say like, I made up the little lick on the guitar, and it’s followed all the way through,” she said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash, later adding,...
Dolly Parton had to fight to write songs like ‘Jolene’
In 1967, Parton began working with Porter Wagoner on The Porter Wagoner Show. In their years of collaboration, they released a number of duets together, and they consistently entered the Top 10 on country charts. “Jolene” was a solo effort by Parton, but she said Wagoner helped with the song.
“I have a big part of the arrangements in the main bulk of my songs, say like, I made up the little lick on the guitar, and it’s followed all the way through,” she said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash, later adding,...
- 6/2/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When imagining Dolly Parton, the first word that comes to mind likely isn’t “modest.” The singer favors tight, revealing clothing, bright makeup, and towering wigs. According to those who knew her, though, Parton took modesty seriously. Her friends said that though Parton dressed a certain way, she was modest when it came to her body.
Dolly Parton was surprisingly modest, according to her friends
When Parton began to appear on The Porter Wagoner Show, she turned to seamstress Judy Hunt and designer Lucy Adams to build her a custom wardrobe. These women got to know Parton’s measurements well, but they never saw her body.
“She’s V-e-r-y modest, yes sir!” Hunt said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “I mean she’ll turn that back! Go off in another room! You’re not gonna see her with no clothes on. Now, you can see her in her pantyhose,...
Dolly Parton was surprisingly modest, according to her friends
When Parton began to appear on The Porter Wagoner Show, she turned to seamstress Judy Hunt and designer Lucy Adams to build her a custom wardrobe. These women got to know Parton’s measurements well, but they never saw her body.
“She’s V-e-r-y modest, yes sir!” Hunt said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “I mean she’ll turn that back! Go off in another room! You’re not gonna see her with no clothes on. Now, you can see her in her pantyhose,...
- 6/1/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Lily Tomlin Weighs In On Jennifer Aniston’ 9 To 5′ Remake ( Photo Credit – IMDb )
Lily Tomlin, one of three stars in the iconic 1980 movie 9 to 5, recently told People magazine that she felt “rejected” after the announcement of Jennnifer Aniston’s remake. The film, which starred Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin and featured the iconic Dolly Parton theme song, was a comedy masterclass about the corporate world riddled with sexism.
Earlier this year, Jennifer Aniston’s production banner Echo Films announced that a reboot is in the works at 20th Century Studios. In a recent interview with People, Lily Tomlin spoke about the sequel written by Oscar-winner Cody Diablo.
While Lily Tomlin wished Aniston the best with the reboot, the Grace and Frankie star also noted that she felt ‘rejected” by the announcement.
Trending Kris Jenner Defends Age Gap With Boyfriend Corey Gamble: “Age Is Just A Number…...
Lily Tomlin, one of three stars in the iconic 1980 movie 9 to 5, recently told People magazine that she felt “rejected” after the announcement of Jennnifer Aniston’s remake. The film, which starred Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin and featured the iconic Dolly Parton theme song, was a comedy masterclass about the corporate world riddled with sexism.
Earlier this year, Jennifer Aniston’s production banner Echo Films announced that a reboot is in the works at 20th Century Studios. In a recent interview with People, Lily Tomlin spoke about the sequel written by Oscar-winner Cody Diablo.
While Lily Tomlin wished Aniston the best with the reboot, the Grace and Frankie star also noted that she felt ‘rejected” by the announcement.
Trending Kris Jenner Defends Age Gap With Boyfriend Corey Gamble: “Age Is Just A Number…...
- 6/1/2024
- by Anushree Madappa
- KoiMoi
Dolly Parton and Porter Wagoner worked together for seven years. In that time, Parton went from a rising voice in Nashville to a recognizable star. Many people believed she had outgrown their working relationship and was ready to move into a solo career. Wagoner resented when people said Parton had been stuck in their partnership. He said that if anyone should have felt trapped, it was him.
Porter Wagoner said he felt like Dolly Parton trapped him
In 1967, Parton joined The Porter Wagoner Show as a singer. She signed to Wagoner’s record label, and the pair began to release successful duets together. It was a major opportunity for her, but by the early 1970s, she began to feel stuck. When interviewers pointed this out to Wagoner, he bristled.
“I feel like that trap was pretty nice to her,” he said, per the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “There were...
Porter Wagoner said he felt like Dolly Parton trapped him
In 1967, Parton joined The Porter Wagoner Show as a singer. She signed to Wagoner’s record label, and the pair began to release successful duets together. It was a major opportunity for her, but by the early 1970s, she began to feel stuck. When interviewers pointed this out to Wagoner, he bristled.
“I feel like that trap was pretty nice to her,” he said, per the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “There were...
- 5/31/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When Dolly Parton moved to Nashville, people became enamored not only with her unique voice but with her talent as a songwriter. Parton prides herself on her lyrics and has received well-earned credit for her ability to write. One Nashville music publisher saw a glaring problem with her writing, though.
A Nashville music publisher said Dolly Parton had a weakness as a songwriter
As Parton’s career took off, she received praise for her ability to write. Her songs were complex, emotional, and evocative of her childhood in Tennessee. When she wrote, it was clear that the product was a Dolly Parton song. This, according to record producer Clarence Selman, was a problem.
“Her major weakness as a writer is that she has so stylized her songs by the time she’s written them, that it would lead another artist to believe that they’re only for Dolly Parton,” Selman...
A Nashville music publisher said Dolly Parton had a weakness as a songwriter
As Parton’s career took off, she received praise for her ability to write. Her songs were complex, emotional, and evocative of her childhood in Tennessee. When she wrote, it was clear that the product was a Dolly Parton song. This, according to record producer Clarence Selman, was a problem.
“Her major weakness as a writer is that she has so stylized her songs by the time she’s written them, that it would lead another artist to believe that they’re only for Dolly Parton,” Selman...
- 5/29/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
For many years, Dolly Parton spent a good deal of her time on tour. She traveled with many musicians, but there were a few she did not want to join her on the road. According to a talent agent, there were a few major male stars who Parton did not want to be around. Here’s why.
Dolly Parton didn’t want to tour with certain people
For much of Parton’s career, she has dealt with rumors about affairs between herself and various other celebrities. People paired her with Porter Wagoner, Burt Reynolds, Sylvester Stallone, and others. Her former boyfriend, Bobby Denton, said there was little truth to these rumors.
“Oh, I don’t think anybody ever really believed that gossip,” Denton said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “You know people start wild, vicious rumors, and the people who knew Dolly didn’t believe it. Any time...
Dolly Parton didn’t want to tour with certain people
For much of Parton’s career, she has dealt with rumors about affairs between herself and various other celebrities. People paired her with Porter Wagoner, Burt Reynolds, Sylvester Stallone, and others. Her former boyfriend, Bobby Denton, said there was little truth to these rumors.
“Oh, I don’t think anybody ever really believed that gossip,” Denton said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “You know people start wild, vicious rumors, and the people who knew Dolly didn’t believe it. Any time...
- 5/28/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton’s career reached new heights when she began to appear on The Porter Wagoner Show. She was a rising star in Nashville, but Wagoner was a much-loved figure in country music. Her years on the show helped make her a bigger name, but she eventually outgrew the job. One record executive said the show began to do more damage than good.
A record executive said Dolly Parton needed to move on from Porter Wagoner
After seven years on The Porter Wagoner Show, Parton decided it was time to move on. They had been incredibly successful as a duo, but Parton wanted to make a name for herself as a solo artist. Other in the industry believed this was the right move.
“The team was a winner. I don’t know if they’re winners separately or not,” country music comedian Minnie Pearl said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
A record executive said Dolly Parton needed to move on from Porter Wagoner
After seven years on The Porter Wagoner Show, Parton decided it was time to move on. They had been incredibly successful as a duo, but Parton wanted to make a name for herself as a solo artist. Other in the industry believed this was the right move.
“The team was a winner. I don’t know if they’re winners separately or not,” country music comedian Minnie Pearl said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
- 5/28/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton and her husband, Carl Dean, have kept their relationship away from the public eye for decades. While Parton has often spoken about Dean in interviews, he practically never joins her in public. Their interactions, therefore, take place entirely in private. According to a friend of the couple, the visible love they had for each other was impressive.
Dolly Parton and her husband were very much in love
In 1967, Ed Enoch — a member of the Stamps Quartet, a group that played with Elvis Presley — befriended Dean. According to him, Dean spoke often of Parton and the pride he felt in her blossoming career.
“He was happy for her to have her career, and we used to talk about his wife traveling on the road,” Enoch said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash, adding, “He said it didn’t matter to him, that he wanted her to have her place,...
Dolly Parton and her husband were very much in love
In 1967, Ed Enoch — a member of the Stamps Quartet, a group that played with Elvis Presley — befriended Dean. According to him, Dean spoke often of Parton and the pride he felt in her blossoming career.
“He was happy for her to have her career, and we used to talk about his wife traveling on the road,” Enoch said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash, adding, “He said it didn’t matter to him, that he wanted her to have her place,...
- 5/26/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton is married and close with her family members, but she said that there’s only one person with whom she could spend all her time. When Parton was in school, she met Judy Ogle. The pair connected immediately, forming what would become a lifetime friendship. Parton shared why their relationship was such a close one.
Dolly Parton said she could spend all her time with one person
One of Parton’s closest allies in life is Ogle. After attending school together, Ogle joined Parton on the road. She managed her affairs and provided Parton with company on long tours.
“I have other friends that are very dear and close to me, but there’s nobody like Judy,” Parton said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “She knows everything that it’s humanly possible to know about me.”
Their relationship was so close that some people speculated that they were lovers.
Dolly Parton said she could spend all her time with one person
One of Parton’s closest allies in life is Ogle. After attending school together, Ogle joined Parton on the road. She managed her affairs and provided Parton with company on long tours.
“I have other friends that are very dear and close to me, but there’s nobody like Judy,” Parton said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “She knows everything that it’s humanly possible to know about me.”
Their relationship was so close that some people speculated that they were lovers.
- 5/26/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
After Dolly Parton moved to Nashville, her life turned around when a record label signed her. Fred Foster, who founded Monument Records, realized Parton would be a success and began to work with her. He thought she needed a little work before she could achieve stardom, though. Foster reportedly spent thousands of dollars trying to make her a little classier.
Dolly Parton’s record label paid for her to take lessons
Though Parton had achieved local success in her music career as early as childhood, she struggled when she moved to Nashville. She could hardly afford to eat, and record label after record label rejected her. Foster turned her luck around.
“The instant you heard her you would never forget that was Dolly Parton,” he said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “Obviously, there are people who can’t stand to hear her sing, but that’s true of...
Dolly Parton’s record label paid for her to take lessons
Though Parton had achieved local success in her music career as early as childhood, she struggled when she moved to Nashville. She could hardly afford to eat, and record label after record label rejected her. Foster turned her luck around.
“The instant you heard her you would never forget that was Dolly Parton,” he said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “Obviously, there are people who can’t stand to hear her sing, but that’s true of...
- 5/25/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When Dolly Parton met Cas Walker, she promised him she’d work hard if he gave her a spot on his radio show. Walker agreed to hire a young Parton, who stayed true to her word. He was endlessly impressed by the dedication she showed.
Dolly Parton’s boss said she was a hard worker
Parton knew she wanted to be a singer from a young age. When she was just 10 years old, she began to appear on Walker’s Farm and Home Hour. By the time she was in high school, Parton was appearing on the show three times a day.
“I didn’t pay much attention to Dolly’s singing when she was little, ’cause that was just part of our family,” her aunt, Estelle Watson, said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “But when she was ten or eleven, I saw she was just determined to be a singer.
Dolly Parton’s boss said she was a hard worker
Parton knew she wanted to be a singer from a young age. When she was just 10 years old, she began to appear on Walker’s Farm and Home Hour. By the time she was in high school, Parton was appearing on the show three times a day.
“I didn’t pay much attention to Dolly’s singing when she was little, ’cause that was just part of our family,” her aunt, Estelle Watson, said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “But when she was ten or eleven, I saw she was just determined to be a singer.
- 5/25/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
After Dolly Parton agreed to appear on Porter Wagoner’s show, he wanted her to sign with his record label as well. This was a difficult decision for Parton, who liked her label It was also a difficult decision for Wagoner’s record company, RCA Victor. Country star Chet Atkins, who worked at RCA, told Wagoner that the label didn’t want Parton. He didn’t think she had a good enough voice.
A country singer told Porter Wagoner that Dolly Parton was a major risk
When Parton signed with Wagoner, he was a major star in the country music industry. His faith in her was not enough for RCA, though. Wagoner brought Atkins a recording of Parton singing and the latter was not impressed.
“This girl just can’t sing,” Atkins reportedly told Wagoner, per the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “I don’t think she’d sell, because she just cannot sing.
A country singer told Porter Wagoner that Dolly Parton was a major risk
When Parton signed with Wagoner, he was a major star in the country music industry. His faith in her was not enough for RCA, though. Wagoner brought Atkins a recording of Parton singing and the latter was not impressed.
“This girl just can’t sing,” Atkins reportedly told Wagoner, per the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “I don’t think she’d sell, because she just cannot sing.
- 5/24/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton moved to Nashville in 1964, ready to both write and sing songs. Though she had achieved some success in her hometown, she struggled in her early days in the city. She began to achieve success not long after a country singer recorded a version of a song she wrote. Parton sang uncredited backing vocals on the song, which began to garner some interest for her.
Dolly Parton’s uncredited vocals on 1 song brought her a lot of attention
Parton and her uncle, Bill Owens, wrote songs together over the years. In 1966, country singer Bill Phillips recorded a version of their song “Put It Off Until Tomorrow.” Parton sang harmony on the song, though her vocals went uncredited. When it entered the Top 10 on the country charts, though, people thought this was due to Parton’s voice.
“That was really the catalyst for Dolly and the thing that brought her to everybody’s attention,...
Dolly Parton’s uncredited vocals on 1 song brought her a lot of attention
Parton and her uncle, Bill Owens, wrote songs together over the years. In 1966, country singer Bill Phillips recorded a version of their song “Put It Off Until Tomorrow.” Parton sang harmony on the song, though her vocals went uncredited. When it entered the Top 10 on the country charts, though, people thought this was due to Parton’s voice.
“That was really the catalyst for Dolly and the thing that brought her to everybody’s attention,...
- 5/23/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton’s flirtatious nature has been a part of her public image for years. She has an easy rapport with interviewers and talks openly about her celebrity crushes. According to Parton, though, men did not approach her all that often. Her guitarist said that when they did, she seemed irritated.
Dolly Parton didn’t like it when men got too flirtatious with her
Parton is beautiful, friendly, and magnetic. She connects well with many people and enjoys flirting, but she never liked it much when men were overly suggestive with her.
“I’ve never seen a man get physical with her, but I’ve seen men get very suggestive after one too many drinks,” her guitarist Tom Rutledge said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “I know it really, really tees her off, but you’d never know it until afterwards, when she says, ‘That son of a...
Dolly Parton didn’t like it when men got too flirtatious with her
Parton is beautiful, friendly, and magnetic. She connects well with many people and enjoys flirting, but she never liked it much when men were overly suggestive with her.
“I’ve never seen a man get physical with her, but I’ve seen men get very suggestive after one too many drinks,” her guitarist Tom Rutledge said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “I know it really, really tees her off, but you’d never know it until afterwards, when she says, ‘That son of a...
- 5/22/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When Dolly Parton moved to Nashville, she had no plans to get married. She moved to the city to find success as a singer and didn’t want a relationship to distract her. This changed on her first day in the city, when she met Carl Dean. Her future husband charmed her immediately. She shared why she felt she was able to jump into the relationship without sacrificing her ambitions.
Dolly Parton wanted to focus on her career, not get married
In 1964, Parton moved to Nashville the day after her high school graduation. She had been hard at work on her music career since childhood, and this was her biggest step forward yet. She didn’t want anything to get in the way of this.
“A lot of people don’t understand it, and no one who doesn’t have a marriage like ours could understand it,” Parton said in...
Dolly Parton wanted to focus on her career, not get married
In 1964, Parton moved to Nashville the day after her high school graduation. She had been hard at work on her music career since childhood, and this was her biggest step forward yet. She didn’t want anything to get in the way of this.
“A lot of people don’t understand it, and no one who doesn’t have a marriage like ours could understand it,” Parton said in...
- 5/21/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
For years, Dolly Parton has favored gravity-defying hairstyles that are only possible through her extensive collection of wigs. Parton has spoken openly about her fondness for wigs and rarely steps out without one on. One of her former co-workers recalled Parton donning wigs in radio and television appearances when she was quite young.
Dolly Parton’s coworker recalled her wearing wigs from a young age
When Parton was ten years old, she began making appearances on Cas Walker’s Farm and Home Hour. This was a professional music gig, and Parton threw herself into her work. Even from an early age, she displayed some of the glittering showmanship that made her famous in adulthood. She wore eye-catching dresses, makeup, and, according to one musician on the show, wigs.
“She was always hep on wigs,” banjo player Bud Brewster said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “She wore wigs — I mean,...
Dolly Parton’s coworker recalled her wearing wigs from a young age
When Parton was ten years old, she began making appearances on Cas Walker’s Farm and Home Hour. This was a professional music gig, and Parton threw herself into her work. Even from an early age, she displayed some of the glittering showmanship that made her famous in adulthood. She wore eye-catching dresses, makeup, and, according to one musician on the show, wigs.
“She was always hep on wigs,” banjo player Bud Brewster said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “She wore wigs — I mean,...
- 5/20/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Before Dolly Parton met her current husband, Carl Dean, she had a handful of boyfriends. She had many admirers, even in her years before fame. One of Parton’s ex-boyfriends said she was an incredibly positive person to date.
Dolly Parton’s ex described her personality when they dated
When Parton and her Uncle Bill tried to get her music career off the ground, they traveled to radio stations in their local area. At one of them, she met Bobby Denton, with whom she would go on a few dates.
“I remember one time we did a swimming party and show at Whittle Springs and Dolly and Bill came out,” Denton recalled in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “When they did ‘What’d I Say,’ Dolly hit the high notes fine, but Bill sang flatter than a pancake. After that I got to be friends with her, and we had a few dates.
Dolly Parton’s ex described her personality when they dated
When Parton and her Uncle Bill tried to get her music career off the ground, they traveled to radio stations in their local area. At one of them, she met Bobby Denton, with whom she would go on a few dates.
“I remember one time we did a swimming party and show at Whittle Springs and Dolly and Bill came out,” Denton recalled in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “When they did ‘What’d I Say,’ Dolly hit the high notes fine, but Bill sang flatter than a pancake. After that I got to be friends with her, and we had a few dates.
- 5/20/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton knew she wanted to sing professionally from a young age. As a child, she threw herself into building a music career, writing songs and traveling to recording studios with her uncle. By high school, she was a local celebrity, with songs on the radio and a regular spot on Cas Walker’s Farm and Home Hour. Despite all this, some people in her community did not believe in her abilities. Some teachers didn’t want her to perform in a school program because they didn’t think she had the talent for it.
Some of Dolly Parton’s teachers weren’t confident in her ability to sing
By the time Parton reached high school, she had been working as a singer for years. It’s hardly surprising, then, that she announced her plans to pursue it further after graduation. Some of her teachers used this to their advantage,...
Some of Dolly Parton’s teachers weren’t confident in her ability to sing
By the time Parton reached high school, she had been working as a singer for years. It’s hardly surprising, then, that she announced her plans to pursue it further after graduation. Some of her teachers used this to their advantage,...
- 5/19/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1967, Dolly Parton began appearing on The Porter Wagoner Show. When she met with Wagoner, she had no idea that he would offer her the life-changing role. Still, she was quick to accept it. It was a particularly good stroke of luck, as Wagoner wanted little to do with Parton before he met her.
Porter Wagoner didn’t want Dolly Parton on his show
In the latter half of the 1960s, Parton began making a name for herself in Nashville.
“Everybody you ran into was talking about Dolly Parton. Everybody,” journalist Bill Littleton recalled in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “They all had a Dolly Parton story, they all knew her, and everybody had been to lunch with her. It was like the town had adopted her, and she was the fair-haired child. Every time you’d turn around. There was no way to stop her.”
Porter Wagoner and...
Porter Wagoner didn’t want Dolly Parton on his show
In the latter half of the 1960s, Parton began making a name for herself in Nashville.
“Everybody you ran into was talking about Dolly Parton. Everybody,” journalist Bill Littleton recalled in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “They all had a Dolly Parton story, they all knew her, and everybody had been to lunch with her. It was like the town had adopted her, and she was the fair-haired child. Every time you’d turn around. There was no way to stop her.”
Porter Wagoner and...
- 5/15/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton and her husband, Carl Dean, have been together for decades. While they seem like an unlikely pair — she embraces the spotlight while he shirks it — they work well together. Parton has spoken highly about her husband over the years, but the public rarely sees him. Her guitarist shared why he thinks Dean was such a good match for the singer.
Dolly Parton’s husband was a good match for her
Though the public does not see much of Dean, the people in Parton’s life do. Her guitarist, Don Roth, got to know Dean well as he met with the band on the road over the years. According to Roth, Parton appreciated the stability Dean brought to her life. He supported her life as a musician and was always home waiting for her when she returned from tour.
Dolly Parton | David Redfern/Redferns
Roth also believed that Dean...
Dolly Parton’s husband was a good match for her
Though the public does not see much of Dean, the people in Parton’s life do. Her guitarist, Don Roth, got to know Dean well as he met with the band on the road over the years. According to Roth, Parton appreciated the stability Dean brought to her life. He supported her life as a musician and was always home waiting for her when she returned from tour.
Dolly Parton | David Redfern/Redferns
Roth also believed that Dean...
- 5/14/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton took a major step in the direction of being a country singer when she appeared onstage at the Grand Ole Opry. Parton was still a child, but she had a sizable ambition and an aversion to the word “no.” She set her mind to appearing on the stage and made persistent attempts at getting there. Unfortunately, she was too young to sing at the Opry. It took some assistance from another performer to get her in front of the audience.
Dolly Parton shared how one country singer helped her at the start of her career
After Parton and her Uncle Bill decided she should perform at the Grand Ole Opry, they made their way to the historic venue. Once they arrived, full of ambition, manager Ott Devine informed the singer that she was too young to perform.
“Ott Devine said that I was too young, but now I...
Dolly Parton shared how one country singer helped her at the start of her career
After Parton and her Uncle Bill decided she should perform at the Grand Ole Opry, they made their way to the historic venue. Once they arrived, full of ambition, manager Ott Devine informed the singer that she was too young to perform.
“Ott Devine said that I was too young, but now I...
- 5/13/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1956, Dolly Parton made her first appearance on Cas Walker’s Farm and Home Hour. The program helped her get her start in the music industry and taught her how to perform. She worked surrounded by men, but Walker said Parton stood her own. He also said that men tended to avoid her.
Cas Walker said men avoided Dolly Parton
When Parton began appearing on Farm and Home Hour, Walker felt he needed to protect her from the various musicians surrounding her.
“I went on a lot of show dates I wouldn’t have went on, but she was fourteen or so, and I went to keep her from bein’ out there with a bunch of tush-hogs,” Walker said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “Those tush-hogs — and there are a lot of ‘em in country music — weren’t safe to be around women. Just couldn’t behave themselves,...
Cas Walker said men avoided Dolly Parton
When Parton began appearing on Farm and Home Hour, Walker felt he needed to protect her from the various musicians surrounding her.
“I went on a lot of show dates I wouldn’t have went on, but she was fourteen or so, and I went to keep her from bein’ out there with a bunch of tush-hogs,” Walker said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “Those tush-hogs — and there are a lot of ‘em in country music — weren’t safe to be around women. Just couldn’t behave themselves,...
- 5/12/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton and her husband, Carl Dean, have been together for decades. Parton has spent a good deal of their married years on the road, touring and making movies. Many people have hardly even seen Dean, let alone witnessed the couple together. One of the people who has, Parton’s former guitarist Don Roth, shared why he thought they were a perfect pair.
Dolly Parton cracked a joke to her band when her husband visited
After attending an industry event with Parton, Dean informed her that he didn’t want to be a part of her life in show business. Still, he would visit her when she had shows within driving distance of their home.
“When we’d be playing some place, like in Missouri, he’d drive up and Dolly would jump off the bus when she saw the car there,” Roth said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
Dolly Parton cracked a joke to her band when her husband visited
After attending an industry event with Parton, Dean informed her that he didn’t want to be a part of her life in show business. Still, he would visit her when she had shows within driving distance of their home.
“When we’d be playing some place, like in Missouri, he’d drive up and Dolly would jump off the bus when she saw the car there,” Roth said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
- 5/12/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When Dolly Parton was 13, she got in the recording studio to work on her first record. She had experience performing — she had even taken the stage at the Grand Ole Opry by this point — but many believe this was her first record. According to one radio station worker, Parton recorded another song when she was even younger. She wanted to keep this record far from the public.
Dolly Parton didn’t want an early recording to be made public
Parton began taking steps toward her dream of being a musician at an early age. She began writing songs and traveling to venues with her uncles. When she was 13, she recorded the songs “Puppy Love” and “Girl Left Alone” at a local label. According to the book Dolly by Alanna Nash, Parton was so small “so the microphone could fit and we could get the fullest capabilities of the song she was recording.
Dolly Parton didn’t want an early recording to be made public
Parton began taking steps toward her dream of being a musician at an early age. She began writing songs and traveling to venues with her uncles. When she was 13, she recorded the songs “Puppy Love” and “Girl Left Alone” at a local label. According to the book Dolly by Alanna Nash, Parton was so small “so the microphone could fit and we could get the fullest capabilities of the song she was recording.
- 5/12/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When Dolly Parton realized she wanted to be a musician, she set her sights on performing at the Grand Ole Opry. She put on small performances, but she and her Uncle Bill never lost sight of their goal of having her get onstage at the historic venue. When she finally had a chance to, she only got onstage because she broke a rule.
Dolly Parton broke the rules at the Grand Ole Opry
Parton’s Uncle Bill firmly believed in her star power, and he saved up enough money to bring her to the Opry.
“Nobody ever told me that you couldn’t do anything you wanted to do,” Parton said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “I just always thought, ‘Well, all you gotta do is just go there and if you sing well, you can be on the Grand Ole Opry.’ Gettin’ the nerve was probably the hardest part,...
Dolly Parton broke the rules at the Grand Ole Opry
Parton’s Uncle Bill firmly believed in her star power, and he saved up enough money to bring her to the Opry.
“Nobody ever told me that you couldn’t do anything you wanted to do,” Parton said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “I just always thought, ‘Well, all you gotta do is just go there and if you sing well, you can be on the Grand Ole Opry.’ Gettin’ the nerve was probably the hardest part,...
- 5/11/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
As Dolly Parton’s career advanced, she took on new management. They helped her cross over from a strictly country crowd to more mainstream fans. Undoubtedly, her new manager helped boost her career. Still, her friends and family weren’t sure what to make of the change in Parton’s life. They believed her new management team brought her away from her roots.
Dolly Parton’s loved ones believed she had changed because of her new management
In 1977, Parton traveled to Sevierville, Tennessee, for their celebration of Dolly Parton Day. She greeted the crowd and chatted happily with people from school. While she was perfectly friendly, some attendees felt Parton had changed. She had a security team with her and left quickly after the show.
“I think by far there were more comments about it this time than ever before,” her school principal, Jack McMahan, said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
Dolly Parton’s loved ones believed she had changed because of her new management
In 1977, Parton traveled to Sevierville, Tennessee, for their celebration of Dolly Parton Day. She greeted the crowd and chatted happily with people from school. While she was perfectly friendly, some attendees felt Parton had changed. She had a security team with her and left quickly after the show.
“I think by far there were more comments about it this time than ever before,” her school principal, Jack McMahan, said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
- 5/10/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton cracks jokes and laughs so often that it isn’t out of the ordinary to hear her giggle on her records. She is quick to poke fun at herself and is happy to banter with interviewers whenever she gets the chance. There are some types of humor that Parton does not like, though. Her guitarist said Parton would cringe whenever she heard one.
Dolly Parton didn’t appreciate jokes about religion
Guitarist Don Roth traveled with Parton on tour and got to know her well. She was generally playful, but there were some forms of humor she would not tolerate. He learned this when he made a joke in front of her.
“I’m relatively sacrilegious and would make Easter jokes about Jesus turning water into wine by palming a grape fizzy, and she would just cringe and say, ‘Oh, please, Don, don’t,’” he said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
Dolly Parton didn’t appreciate jokes about religion
Guitarist Don Roth traveled with Parton on tour and got to know her well. She was generally playful, but there were some forms of humor she would not tolerate. He learned this when he made a joke in front of her.
“I’m relatively sacrilegious and would make Easter jokes about Jesus turning water into wine by palming a grape fizzy, and she would just cringe and say, ‘Oh, please, Don, don’t,’” he said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
- 5/9/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton has been navigating the music industry since she was a child. Her uncle drove her to performance venues and recording studios while she was still in school, and she made regular appearances on a local radio show. This taught her how to make her way in the male-dominated industry. According to one musician she knew, Parton didn’t let anyone push her around.
Dolly Parton always stood up for herself in the music industry
In 1956, Parton began making appearances on Cas Walker’s Farm and Home Hour. The radio show allowed her to showcase her talents to the Knoxville area and provided her with her first taste of fame. She was a child and had begun to work with older professional musicians. She didn’t appear to be intimidated by them, though.
“We had twelve or fifteen men and boys on the show and you know there’s always somebody smartin’ off,...
Dolly Parton always stood up for herself in the music industry
In 1956, Parton began making appearances on Cas Walker’s Farm and Home Hour. The radio show allowed her to showcase her talents to the Knoxville area and provided her with her first taste of fame. She was a child and had begun to work with older professional musicians. She didn’t appear to be intimidated by them, though.
“We had twelve or fifteen men and boys on the show and you know there’s always somebody smartin’ off,...
- 5/9/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In the 1970s, Dolly Parton embarked on lengthy tour legs with members of her band. They traveled together by bus and spent weeks at a time away from home. Though Parton was married by this point, it didn’t take long before people began to whisper rumors of her flirtations with members of her band. Her former guitarist spoke about the affectionate way she treated people.
Dolly Parton was affectionate with members of her band
When Barbara Walters interviewed Parton in 1977, she asked the singer if there was any “hanky-panky” on the tour bus.
“Well, that depends on what you mean by hanky-panky,” Parton responded, per the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “We do a lot of celebratin’ on the bus. Let’s put it that way. If there’s really something to celebrate, if we want to stop and buy some wine or some champagne, if there’s somethin’ really nice.
Dolly Parton was affectionate with members of her band
When Barbara Walters interviewed Parton in 1977, she asked the singer if there was any “hanky-panky” on the tour bus.
“Well, that depends on what you mean by hanky-panky,” Parton responded, per the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “We do a lot of celebratin’ on the bus. Let’s put it that way. If there’s really something to celebrate, if we want to stop and buy some wine or some champagne, if there’s somethin’ really nice.
- 5/8/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton and Linda Ronstadt may have collaborated on two albums, but the former wasn’t sure she fit in with Ronstadt’s friend group. Parton has been involved with the music industry since she was a child and rose to major fame in adulthood. Still, she didn’t feel that she fit in with a crowd at Ronstadt’s house.
Dolly Parton didn’t feel she fit in at Linda Ronstadt’s party
By the end of the 1970s, Parton, who had solidly established herself in the country music scene, crossed over to mainstream success. Through all of this, she maintained a shimmering vitality and sincerity. As she achieved increasing levels of fame, she stayed true to her roots. For this reason, she became slightly uncomfortable when surrounded by other celebrities.
“I can tell you one thing,” her guitarist Don Roth said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
Dolly Parton didn’t feel she fit in at Linda Ronstadt’s party
By the end of the 1970s, Parton, who had solidly established herself in the country music scene, crossed over to mainstream success. Through all of this, she maintained a shimmering vitality and sincerity. As she achieved increasing levels of fame, she stayed true to her roots. For this reason, she became slightly uncomfortable when surrounded by other celebrities.
“I can tell you one thing,” her guitarist Don Roth said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
- 5/7/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton’s family members did a great deal to champion her career. They helped her on her rise to success and supported her after she achieved success. Still, they grew accustomed to her stardom. Her aunt said that this led them to take her for granted.
Dolly Parton’s family said they got used to her fame
Parton began performing in front of audiences as a child and started recording her music when she was still in school. By the 1970s, she was a star. Through her rise, her family members grew accustomed to knowing a famous musician. It no longer felt like a major deal to see her in concert.
“I know she’s busy, and I don’t push my way around when she’s got fans to see,” her aunt, Estelle Watson, said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “I said, ‘Well, I’ll let the other people see her.
Dolly Parton’s family said they got used to her fame
Parton began performing in front of audiences as a child and started recording her music when she was still in school. By the 1970s, she was a star. Through her rise, her family members grew accustomed to knowing a famous musician. It no longer felt like a major deal to see her in concert.
“I know she’s busy, and I don’t push my way around when she’s got fans to see,” her aunt, Estelle Watson, said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “I said, ‘Well, I’ll let the other people see her.
- 5/6/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In the 1970s, Dolly Parton embarked on long stretches of tours with her band. While she paid well, the work was hard and took people away from home for weeks at a time. Her band had a high turnover rate, though not because people tired of the schedule. Instead, Parton fired many of her band members in search of the perfect lineup.
Dolly Parton’s band didn’t feel safe in their jobs
As Parton worked to cross over from a strictly country audience to a mainstream one, she tried to make sure she had the perfect band to back her. This became a major point of concern for the people who joined her on tour. Her former guitarist, Don Roth, said Parton struggled to find people because of her reputation.
“First of all, everybody’s afraid they’re gonna get fired; there’s no stability,” he said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
Dolly Parton’s band didn’t feel safe in their jobs
As Parton worked to cross over from a strictly country audience to a mainstream one, she tried to make sure she had the perfect band to back her. This became a major point of concern for the people who joined her on tour. Her former guitarist, Don Roth, said Parton struggled to find people because of her reputation.
“First of all, everybody’s afraid they’re gonna get fired; there’s no stability,” he said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
- 5/5/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton’s husband, Carl Dean, is as skilled at dodging the press as his wife is at courting their attention. In the decades they’ve been married, he has only spoken to media outlets a handful of times and is hardly ever seen out in public. In a rare interview, he shared the thoughtful reason he tries to avoid talking to journalists.
Dolly Parton’s husband shared why he doesn’t talk to the media
While Parton said Dean is thoughtful and charming with his close friends and family members, he avoids talking to strangers.
“Carl only talks to people he likes,” Parton’s friend Lucy Adams said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “He’ll talk to you if you go out there, but if he doesn’t have to, he won’t.”
Dolly Parton | Robin Platzer/Images /Getty Images
He practically never wanted to speak to...
Dolly Parton’s husband shared why he doesn’t talk to the media
While Parton said Dean is thoughtful and charming with his close friends and family members, he avoids talking to strangers.
“Carl only talks to people he likes,” Parton’s friend Lucy Adams said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “He’ll talk to you if you go out there, but if he doesn’t have to, he won’t.”
Dolly Parton | Robin Platzer/Images /Getty Images
He practically never wanted to speak to...
- 5/5/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The original 1964 Broadway production of "Hello, Dolly!" was considered a showcase for its star, Carol Channing, and little else. At the time, critics were not entirely kind, saying the show had "unnecessary vulgar and frenzied touches," and that they "wouldn't say that Jerry Herman's score is memorable." Despite the middling reviews, "Hello, Dolly!" won 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Leading Actress (for Channing), Best Direction, Best Choreography, and Best Original Score.
The mid-'60s were a weirdly fraught time for major Hollywood musicals, as the genre provided some of the era's biggest hits, but also some of its biggest bombs. In 1964, Disney had a big hit with "Mary Poppins" and Warner Bros. made bank with "My Fair Lady," so musicals were suddenly on the rise. In 1965, Fox released "The Sound of Music," adapted from the stage production by Rodgers and Hammerstein, and it proved to be one of...
The mid-'60s were a weirdly fraught time for major Hollywood musicals, as the genre provided some of the era's biggest hits, but also some of its biggest bombs. In 1964, Disney had a big hit with "Mary Poppins" and Warner Bros. made bank with "My Fair Lady," so musicals were suddenly on the rise. In 1965, Fox released "The Sound of Music," adapted from the stage production by Rodgers and Hammerstein, and it proved to be one of...
- 5/5/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Dolly Parton has acted in multiple movies and started her own production company. In her youth, though, she didn’t have many opportunities to go to the movies. According to one person she dated before fame, she was unable to maintain focus through a movie.
Dolly Parton was always loud at the movies
While still in school, Parton began to develop her music career. She recorded songs she worked on with her uncle and even got some airtime on local radio stations. At this stage of her career she met Bobby Denton, an operations director at a radio station. The pair hit it off and went on several dates.
For years, Parton has been a bubbly, joyful public figure. Denton said she has always been this way, which sometimes made dates difficult.
Dolly Parton | Robin Platzer/Images /Getty Images
“I went with her one night to tape a TV show,...
Dolly Parton was always loud at the movies
While still in school, Parton began to develop her music career. She recorded songs she worked on with her uncle and even got some airtime on local radio stations. At this stage of her career she met Bobby Denton, an operations director at a radio station. The pair hit it off and went on several dates.
For years, Parton has been a bubbly, joyful public figure. Denton said she has always been this way, which sometimes made dates difficult.
Dolly Parton | Robin Platzer/Images /Getty Images
“I went with her one night to tape a TV show,...
- 5/4/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In the 1970s, Dolly Parton picked up a reputation that wasn’t great for someone looking to hire a band. She explained that people in Nashville felt she couldn’t keep her backing musicians. Parton was looking for a specific sound and dynamic, and she fired people if they didn’t fit this vision. According to one of her former band members, some people felt extremely bitter toward her.
Some members of Dolly Parton’s band resented her
For many musicians, the chance to play in Parton’s band was significant and exciting. She paid well and was on a seemingly endless rise. Still, it was hard work that required long hours on the road. They also felt that Parton’s new management had made it difficult to work with her.
“On top of that, a good many things promised by Dolly did not happen,” her former guitarist, Don Roth...
Some members of Dolly Parton’s band resented her
For many musicians, the chance to play in Parton’s band was significant and exciting. She paid well and was on a seemingly endless rise. Still, it was hard work that required long hours on the road. They also felt that Parton’s new management had made it difficult to work with her.
“On top of that, a good many things promised by Dolly did not happen,” her former guitarist, Don Roth...
- 5/3/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton has been married to her husband, Carl Dean, for decades, a truth that may come as a surprise to some. Parton’s husband does not join her on red carpets or at shows — few pictures of him are even publicly available. Early in Parton’s career, though, Dean joined her at an industry event. According to those in attendance, Dean was visibly uncomfortable with being there.
Dolly Parton’s husband was visibly uncomfortable at an industry event
In the 1960s, Parton received an award at the BMI Awards Dinner, and Dean accompanied her to the ceremony. Both of them were nervous about the event.
“I was very excited, because I’d never been [to an awards dinner] before,” she said, per the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “Carl said he’d go with me. That was the first time he’d been to any industry function with me, and it was the last.
Dolly Parton’s husband was visibly uncomfortable at an industry event
In the 1960s, Parton received an award at the BMI Awards Dinner, and Dean accompanied her to the ceremony. Both of them were nervous about the event.
“I was very excited, because I’d never been [to an awards dinner] before,” she said, per the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “Carl said he’d go with me. That was the first time he’d been to any industry function with me, and it was the last.
- 5/3/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton has been with her husband for decades, and she has joked about her flirtations with other men for nearly as long as they’ve been together. She danced around rumors of affairs for years. Her husband, Carl Dean, keeps his goings-on out of the public eye, but he once called Parton to inform her that he was on a date. Parton was well acquainted with his partner.
Dolly Parton’s husband took her former teacher on a date
Parton’s career took her away from home often, leaving Dean alone. This meant that when people came to town, it may be up to him alone to entertain them. Once, while she was on tour, Parton’s first grade teacher called on the couple.
“I go to Nashville about twice a year and Dolly’s folks were always saying I should call her when I came down,” her former teacher,...
Dolly Parton’s husband took her former teacher on a date
Parton’s career took her away from home often, leaving Dean alone. This meant that when people came to town, it may be up to him alone to entertain them. Once, while she was on tour, Parton’s first grade teacher called on the couple.
“I go to Nashville about twice a year and Dolly’s folks were always saying I should call her when I came down,” her former teacher,...
- 5/2/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
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