Dolly Parton Delays Las Vegas Residency Due to Health Concerns
Published: September-30-2025, 21:00 EDT
Country Legend Prioritizes Recovery Before Return to Stage
Dolly Parton, one of America’s most beloved entertainers, has postponed her highly anticipated Las Vegas residency originally scheduled for December 2025. The 79-year-old country star cited ongoing health issues and medical procedures, explaining that she needs more time to prepare and deliver the show her fans deserve.
The six-show residency, titled Dolly: Live in Las Vegas, was planned for Caesars Palace’s Colosseum between December 4 and December 13, overlapping with the National Finals Rodeo. Those performances have now been rescheduled to September 2026, with tickets valid for the new dates and refunds available for those unable to attend.
Parton Explains Decision to Fans
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Parton said she had been advised by her doctors to undergo several procedures. With her signature humor, she described the situation as her “100,000-mile check-up,” joking that this time it was not a trip to the plastic surgeon.
“I’m not going to be able to rehearse and put together the show that I want you to see,” Parton explained. “You pay good money to see me perform, and I want to be at my best for you.”
The singer reassured fans that she has no intention of retiring. “Don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet,” she wrote. “But I believe he is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you.”
Health Concerns in Recent Months
Parton has faced health setbacks this year that have occasionally kept her away from public appearances. Earlier in September, she was unable to attend the announcement of a new ride at her Dollywood theme park in Tennessee. In a video message, she revealed she had been recovering from a kidney stone that caused complications, including an infection.
Doctors advised her to rest rather than travel, prompting her absence. “I was looking so forward to it,” she told fans, assuring them that she was present “in spirit.”
Personal Loss in 2025
In addition to health concerns, Parton experienced a major personal loss earlier this year. Her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, passed away in March at the age of 82. Dean, who lived largely out of the public eye, was the inspiration for some of Parton’s most iconic songs, including the classic hit Jolene.
Despite these challenges, Parton has remained active in creative projects and continues to share updates with her fans worldwide.
Upcoming Creative Projects
Although she has not toured since her Pure & Simple Tour ended in 2016, Parton has kept busy with new ventures. On November 11, she will release a new memoir, Star of the Show: My Life on Stage, reflecting on her decades-long career in music and entertainment.
Looking ahead, a Broadway stage musical based on her life story is set to premiere in 2026, further expanding her legacy as a cultural and creative force.
Fans and Industry Respond
News of the residency postponement has been met with an outpouring of support. Fans expressed understanding of Parton’s decision, emphasizing her well-being over immediate performances. Industry observers noted that the rescheduled residency will likely draw even greater anticipation as Parton prepares to make a triumphant return to Las Vegas.
For now, Parton is focused on recovery, assuring her audience that she will be back on stage in 2026, ready to share her music, humor, and energy with fans from around the world.
Source: AP News – Dolly Parton postpones Las Vegas residency, cites ‘health challenges’