Dolly Parton will miss a major Hollywood ceremony just days after postponing her Las Vegas residency as she continues to battle health issues. The 79-year-old country music legend had been due to receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the 16th Governor Awards in California on November 16, but The Hollywood Reporter confirmed she will no longer be attending. The honour, considered an honorary Oscar, was to be presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ board of governors.
The announcement has alarmed fans, who flooded social media with messages of support. One person commented: “Dolly is a national treasure! Lord please heal whatever it is that is affecting her health.” Dolly had been set to receive the award alongside actor-producer Tom Cruise, choreographer Debbie Allen and designer Wynn Thomas. Previous honourees who could not attend include John Calley, James Earl Jones and Debbie Reynolds.
The news comes just days after Dolly told followers that her highly-anticipated Las Vegas residency was being pushed back.
Sharing the update directly on Instagram, she explained: “I want the fans and public to hear directly from me that, unfortunately, I will need to postpone my upcoming Las Vegas concerts.
"As many of you know, I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures.”
In classic Dolly fashion, she lightened the blow with humour, telling fans it felt like time for her “100,000-mile check-up,” while stressing it wasn’t her “usual trip to see [her] plastic surgeon.”
Despite the concern, Dolly was clear that she is not ready to hang up her microphone: “Don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet.
"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. I love you and thank you for understanding.”
Her residency will now run in September 2026, with dates confirmed between September 17 and 26. Tickets bought for the original 2025 shows will still be valid, while refunds will be offered for those unable to attend.
Celebrities rushed to show their love under Dolly’s post. Olivia Munn dropped red heart emojis, Brandi Carlile praised her as “beyond reproach,” and Jennifer Nettles told her: “Big adventures for you, for sure! Can’t wait to enjoy them with you!
"In the meantime, tend to yourself and feel better!” Actress Julianne Hough added three heart emojis of her own.
Fans echoed the sentiment, with one writing: “Protect this queen at all costs!!!!” while another begged: “We love you so much please slow it down and recharge.”
The setback follows Dolly cancelling a trip to Dollywood earlier this month where she had been expected to unveil a new attraction, fuelling further speculation about her health.
