Dolly Parton Reveals Health Update, Cancels Vegas Shows Due to Medication Side Effects

Country music icon Dolly Parton shared a health update with fans in an Instagram video posted on Monday, May 4, revealing both progress and new challenges in her ongoing treatment.

In the video, Parton addressed her health with a mix of optimism and humor, stating,

"The good news is, I’m responding really well to meds and treatments, and I’m improving every day."

While she did not specify the exact nature of her health issues, Parton noted a long-standing struggle with kidney stones, joking,

"They dig more stones out of me a year than the rock quarry in Rockwood, Tennessee."

She also highlighted ongoing concerns with her immune and digestive systems, which she said have been "all out of whack over the past three years." Her care team is actively working to rebuild and strengthen these systems.

Parton apologized to fans for canceling her previously postponed Las Vegas shows, explaining that some medications and treatments leave her "a little bit swimmy-headed." She added,

"Of course, I can’t be dizzy carrying around banjos, guitars and such on five-inch heels."

The announcement follows her original postponement of the Vegas concerts eight months ago, when she cited "health challenges" requiring "a few procedures." Despite the seriousness of her condition, Parton reassured fans that her doctors have confirmed everything is treatable.

While acknowledging it will take time to return to full stage performance, she expressed confidence in her recovery.

"I am doing really well," she said. "I’ve got great doctors who told me everything I have is treatable."

Parton emphasized that she remains active during her recovery, continuing to work on projects including videos, recordings, and visits to Dollywood. She also shared updates on her upcoming ventures, such as the opening of her museum and hotel in Nashville later this year and the development of her Broadway musical, Dolly: A True Original Musical, slated to premiere in fall or early winter 2026.

In closing, Parton expressed gratitude for fan support, particularly after the loss of her husband. She wrote,

"Thank you for standing by me and showing me so much love and support over the past year. I’ve still got some healing to do, but I am on my way! See you soon."