Cher is remembering Dolly Parton as someone who always believed things would work out. The music icon also reflected on her longtime friend’s decision to keep her health struggles private before her death.
The two legends shared nearly five decades of friendship and countless memorable moments. Cher, 80, reflected on Parton’s life after the country superstar died at age 80.
Cher explained why Dolly Parton decided to keep details of her brief cancer battle private
Speaking with CBS News, Cher admitted that Parton’s death initially caught her by surprise. However, she said her friend’s decision to remain private about her health felt entirely true to her character.
“No matter what was happening, she was either going to go with it, or it was going to get better,” Cher said. “She just had a spirit, and it was a spirit that was always thinking the best was happening, the best was going to happen.”
Cher added that Parton’s optimism defined her life and relationships. “Her friends loved her, her life was good, you know? That’s who she was.”
The singer also praised Dolly’s famously careful approach to politics, calling it “smart.” Cher suggested that stepping into political battles required a certain toughness.
Their friendship began in 1978 at manager Sandy Gallin’s home. Cher recalled spotting Parton in an unforgettable all-white outfit with “major hair” and more buttons than she had ever seen.
“I went to Sandy, and I said, ‘Sandy, who is that girl?’” Cher remembered. He told her, “You better love her, she’s gonna love you.” Cher said, “And it was the truth, and we did.”
Cher also remembered Parton’s extraordinary connection with audiences. She watched footage of a huge concert and noticed how Dolly reached toward fans while crossing the stage.
“It’s a gift—you don’t come by that gift,” Cher said of her friend’s natural warmth. She later revealed that she would miss Parton’s laugh most.
Cher also named “Islands in the Stream” and “I Will Always Love You” as her favorite Dolly songs.
Parton died on August 25 at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones. The statement from her team celebrated her “wit, warmth, and kindness” and a legacy built on “love, compassion, and resilience.”
