Reba McEntire revealed she missed a call from Dolly Parton, just weeks before the country music icon’s death on August 25, after a brief battle with cancer, according to multiple sources.
Reba McEntire, 71, shared her anguish over missing a call from Dolly Parton, just weeks before the “Jolene” singer’s death at age 80. She did call me the last of July, and I was in a meeting and I missed her call,
McEntire told Entertainment Tonight. I tried to get back in touch with her, and I couldn’t; never made connection.
When she learned of Parton’s passing, McEntire said, I’ll never know why she called me. I’ll find out one day.
A Friendship Forged in Music and Tragedy
Parton’s support extended beyond music. Their friendship endured through decades of collaboration, including a version of Does He Love You
recorded for Reba’s 2021 album and Parton’s guest-starring role on McEntire’s sitcom Reba in 2005.
The Final Call and Parton’s Legacy
Parton’s death, confirmed by her representatives, was attributed to a brief battle with cancer. She departed her Earthly life at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, surrounded by loved ones.
McEntire’s social media tributes highlighted Parton’s huge huge heart.
There will never ever be another you,
she wrote. At the Emmys, McEntire wore a sparkling white dress as she delivered a stirring rendition of the emotional song with the backing of a live symphony.
Unanswered Questions and Parton’s Lasting Influence
Despite these challenges, she remained active and noted she was still “workin’.”
Reba McEntire Honors Dolly Parton at the Primetime Emmys
McEntire honored Parton during the Emmy Awards, performing a tribute to the late singer with a live symphony backing her sparkling white dress.
McEntire’s tribute highlighted the connection between the two icons. Well, I just got the news that my buddy Dolly passed onto the higher and greater side,
she wrote at the time. The emotional moment underscored the deep respect and friendship that defined their careers.
As fans and peers mourn, the question of why Parton called McEntire remains unanswered. For now, McEntire’s tribute and the legacy of their friendship stand as testaments to a bond that transcended fame.