Dolly Parton’s sister, Freida Parton, has called on fans to pray for the country music legend’s health, following the postponement of her Las Vegas residency due to undisclosed medical procedures. The heartfelt request was made on social media on October 7, 2025, sparking concern and support from the global fan community.
Freida Parton took to Facebook on Tuesday to share an emotional update, writing that she had been up all night praying for her sister. She expressed her belief in the power of prayer and urged the world’s “prayer warriors” to join her in supporting Dolly during this challenging time. Freida, 68, described Dolly as strong and loved, confident that with collective prayers, she would recover fully. Her post resonated deeply, highlighting the family’s reliance on faith and community in times of need.
The health concerns emerged publicly last week when Dolly Parton announced the postponement of her “Dolly: Live in Las Vegas” residency, originally scheduled for December 2025 at the Colosseum Theater at Caesars Palace. The shows have been rescheduled to September 2026, with Dolly citing “health challenges” that require her to undergo multiple medical procedures. This decision affects six performances, reflecting the seriousness of her condition and her commitment to delivering a high-quality experience for attendees.
In her own Instagram statement on September 28, the 79-year-old singer humorously referred to the situation as a “100,000-mile check-up,” though she clarified it was not related to her plastic surgery. She emphasized the need for time to recover and ensure she could perform at her best, acknowledging that fans pay good money to see her and deserve nothing less. Dolly’s lighthearted approach balanced the gravity of her health issues, reassuring supporters of her resilient spirit.
Dolly assured fans that she is not retiring, sharing that she believes God is telling her to “slow down right now” to prepare for future adventures. This comes amid a difficult period for the artist, who lost her husband of 58 years, Carl Dean, in March 2025, adding emotional weight to her current health battle. Her ability to work on projects from her Nashville home provides some continuity, but the focus remains on rest and recovery.
Freida’s public plea has ignited an outpouring of support on social media, with fans and fellow celebrities sharing messages of encouragement and prayers. The Parton family’s openness about their struggles underscores the close bonds they share and the universal need for compassion during health crises. This collective response illustrates Dolly’s enduring impact on popular culture and the deep connection she maintains with her audience.
While specific details about Dolly’s condition remain private, the postponement and Freida’s call for prayers suggest the health issues are significant enough to disrupt major professional commitments. Medical experts often recommend such breaks for procedures to ensure full recovery, aligning with Dolly’s prudent approach. The entertainment industry has seen similar scenarios where artists prioritize health over schedules, emphasizing the importance of well-being in a demanding career.
As Dolly focuses on her recovery, the rescheduled Las Vegas shows in 2026 are highly anticipated, with existing tickets expected to be honored. Fans and industry insiders alike await further updates, hoping for a swift and complete return to the stage. This episode serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by even the most iconic figures and the powerful role of community support in navigating personal challenges.