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‘Dolly Parton: Here I Am’ Is A Testament To The Artistry And Image Of Country Music’s “Backwoods Barbie”

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• Dolly Parton: Here I Am

Dolly Parton is a national treasure. She embodies the best of us, a poor girl from rural Appalachia who conquered Nashville, then Hollywood; a woman who upended gender norms and a country singer who is an LGBTQ icon and supports Black Lives Matter. Impossibly beautiful, ridiculously voluptuous, and confident enough to make fun of herself, everything about Dolly is big. Big smile, big hair, big breasts and most importantly, big talent. If all she ever wrote was “I Will Always Love You” and “9 to 5,” she’d still have written two of the biggest songs of all-time. She’s written thousands.

The new Netflix documentary, Dolly Parton: Here I Am , examines her life and music and makes a good case that she’s one of the most important figures in American music. Directed by Francis Whately, the man behind David Bowie: Finding Fame and its two film predecessors, it uses Parton’s biggest hits and favorite songs to frame her story and figure out who she really is. Famous friends and not-so-famous backing musicians fill in the gaps and elucidate on her abilities, personality and songcraft.

The story begins with Parton celebrating the 50th anniversary of her first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry, that holy cathedral of country music. As a little girl, her greatest ambition was to appear on the Opry stage. She grew up the fourth of 12 children and talks about needing more attention than her parents could provide. She felt different, even at a young age, which fostered her humanism and sense of self.  

Dolly came to Nashville at 18, hungry for success and fearless of failure. She learned to stand up for herself, especially as a girl, “and a country girl that did look like a dumb girl,” she says with a laugh. “I know the nature of men,” she says ominously, having grown up with lots of brothers and uncles, though later flips it around in true Dolly fashion, saying, “I know the nature of women,” having had lots of sisters and aunts. One-liners, Dolly’s got in spades. 

The point of Parton’s first single, 1966’s “Dumb Blonde,” was that she wasn’t one. As the years passed she got blonder, her hair got bigger and her outfits got tighter, accentuating her famed ample bosom. Parton played with her sex appeal, usually with a wink, but was always in control of it. In a sense her outrageous appearance became her armor, protecting her from slings and arrows by putting it out front. Despite her hillbilly sex pot image, she’s been married to the same man, Carl Dean, since 1966. While Parton lives in the spotlight, Dean runs from it and true to form doesn’t appear in the film.

In 1967, Parton joined syndicated country music television program The Porter Wagoner Show , raising her profile considerably. She left in 1974 to pursue a solo career and a crossover into the pop charts seemed inevitable. Viewing her as “a natural actress,” her manager pushed her into acting. The 1980 comedy 9 to 5 dealt with sexual harassment and was one of the biggest films of the year. Parton agreed to star in the film if she could write the theme song, which was a huge hit, and emerged from the experience bigger than ever, “A queen, an empress…,” in the words of co-star Lily Tomlin.

Here I Am deep dives into Parton’s artistry, highlighting lyrics and discussing her songwriting process. Her own words are illuminating and display a knowledge of country and folk music that is instinctual but also well informed. Left behind by the country music industry at the turn of the century, she turned to bluegrass and released three well-received albums which included some of the most esteemed musicians in the genre. They did it out of respect. Real recognizes real.   

There’s another theme running through the film, about who the real Dolly Parton is. Even her closest friends say they’ve never seen her without her wig and makeup and wonder where her dark side is. For her part, Parton mentions the sacrifices of fame but quickly moves on. “All my life, all I’ve ever wanted was to be a big star and this is just part of the deal,” she once told singer Mac Davies while besieged by autograph hounds. I think that says more about her character than any insight Jane Fonda or Linda Perry might have.

It’s hard to dislike Dolly Parton but it’s easy to take her for granted. Dolly Parton: Here I Am is a testament to her artistry and work ethic and a reminder that underneath the blonde wigs and plastic surgery lies one of America’s great singers and songwriters. Besides her momentous talent, her warmth and wit make her someone that feels like, “a family member to most people, in her words. “I know I look totally bizarre and artificial but I’m totally real inside.”

Benjamin H. Smith is a New York based writer, producer and musician. Follow him on Twitter: @BHSmithNYC.

Watch Dolly Parton: Here I Am on Netflix

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Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton is a Grammy-winning musical icon whose powerful voice and songwriting skills have established her as a presence on the country and pop music charts for decades.

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1946-present

Dolly Parton Now: New Album Rockstar Now Out

Listen to Rockstar on Amazon Music , Apple Music , or Spotify .

Created in part as a response to her induction to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame last year, the album features covers of famous rock songs, as well as collaborations with many artists from the genre. Some of the covers included are Parton’s versions of Prince ’s “Purple Rain,” Miley Cyrus ’ “Wrecking Ball,” The Rolling Stones ’ “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” and Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven.” Paul McCartney , Ringo Starr , Elton John , Sting , Joan Jett , Steven Tyler , and Pat Benatar are among the artists Parton teamed up with on Rockstar . “I really had a wonderful time working with all these iconic artists on the record and all these iconic musicians,” Parton also shared in her post.

Quick Facts

Early songs: “jolene” and “i will always love you”, movies: 9 to 5 and more, dollywood and other business ventures, later music and rockstar album, husband and goddaughter miley cyrus, imagination library and other philanthropy, who is dolly parton.

Country music icon and actor Dolly Parton initially found success with country star Porter Wagoner in the 1960s, before embarking on a solo career marked by hit songs like “Joshua,” “Jolene,” “The Bargain Store,” “I Will Always Love You,” “Here You Come Again,” “9 to 5,” and “Islands in the Stream.” A highly skilled singer-songwriter known for thoughtful narratives and distinctive vocals, she has won many major awards, including 10 Grammys, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999. She has also starred in the movies 9 to 5 , The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas , and Steel Magnolias. In 1986, she opened her Dollywood theme park, now part of a network of attractions. Parton continues to record and tour regularly.

FULL NAME: Dolly Rebecca Parton BORN: January 19, 1946 BIRTHPLACE: Locust Ridge, Tennessee SPOUSE: Carl Dean (1966-present) CHILDREN: None ASTROLOGICAL SIGN: Capricorn

Dolly Rebecca Parton was born on January 19, 1946, in Locust Ridge, Tennessee, to Robert Lee Parton, a sharecropper and farmer, and Avie Lee Caroline. Parton grew up poor in rural Appalachia. She was the fourth of 12 children , all of whom her mother delivered before turning 35. Parton said of her mother’s decision to name her Dolly: “I guess my mama knew I was going to want to be a star,” according to People . Parton described her family as “dirt poor,” and money was always an issue for them.

Parton’s first exposure to music came from family members, including her mother, who sang and played guitar. At an early age, she also learned about music while performing in church. She was writing songs before she knew how to read, according to People . Parton received her first guitar from a relative and soon began to pen her own tunes.

At age 10, she started performing professionally, appearing on local television and radio shows in Knoxville, roughly an hour from her home. Parton made her Grand Ole Opry debut three years later. Set on a career in music, she then moved to Nashville the day after finishing high school in 1964.

Parton’s singing career really started to take off in 1967. Around this time, she partnered with country singer Porter Wagoner on The Porter Wagoner Show . Parton and Wagoner became a popular duo, and the pair recorded a slew of country hits together. Much was made of her shapely curves, petite 5-foot-tall stature, and warm personality, which to some people belied a thoughtful, visionary artist with a strong business sense. Since her early career, Parton has protected the publishing rights to her catalog of songs, which has earned her millions in royalties.

“As soon as I could, I started my own publishing company, got my own record label. I think it’s important, if you can, to keep all of your goods close to home where you can control them and know what’s happening with them.”—Dolly Parton

Her work with Wagoner also helped Parton land a contract with RCA Records. After having had several charting singles, Parton scored her first No. 1 country hit in 1971 with “Joshua,” a bluegrass-inspired track about two solitary figures who find love. More No. 1 hits followed, including “Jolene,” a haunting 1973 single in which a woman begs another beautiful woman not to take her man, and “I Will Always Love You,” a 1974 tribute to Wagoner as the two parted ways professionally. Elvis Presley wished to record a cover of the song, but Parton refused when Presley’s infamous manager, Colonel Tom Parker , tried to insist she sign half the song’s publishing rights over to Presley.

Other country hits from this era included the ethereal “Love Is Like a Butterfly,” the provocative “The Bargain Store,” the spiritual “The Seeker,” and the rollicking “All I Can Do.” For the range of her compelling work, she won the Country Music Association Award for Female Vocalist in 1975 and 1976.

In 1977, Parton had her first crossover smash with the bouncy, bittersweet ode to a returning lover, “Here You Come Again.” The song reached the top of the country charts as well as No. 3 on the pop charts and also marked the singer-songwriter’s first Grammy Award, for Best Female Country Vocal Performance. More emotionally-driven No. 1 country hits followed including “It’s All Wrong, But It’s Alright,” “Heartbreaker,” and “Starting Over Again,” a ballad written by disco star Donna Summer .

Over the years, Parton has enjoyed many successful collaborations. In 1983, she scored another major smash with “Islands in the Stream,” her duet with Kenny Rogers . Four years later, she recorded the Grammy Award-winning album Trio with Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt .

Parton perhaps reached the apex of her mainstream success in the 1980s. She made her film debut in the 1980 comedy hit 9 to 5 , starring alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin . She played a secretary who, along with her two co-workers, plots against her egotistical and sexist boss, in a movie that raised awareness of workplace discrimination. In addition to co-starring in 9 to 5 , Parton also contributed to its soundtrack. The title song, with one of the most memorable opening lines in popular music history, proved to be another No. 1 hit for Parton on both the pop and country charts. For “9 to 5,” Parton also took home two Grammy Awards—for Best Country Song and Best Female Country Vocal Performance—and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.

Parton next starred with Burt Reynolds and Dom DeLuise in the musical movie The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas in 1982, which helped to introduce a new generation to her song “I Will Always Love You.” In 1984, Parton starred along with Sylvester Stallone in the musical comedy Rhinestone , portraying a country singer who tries to turn an obnoxious New York City cab driver (played by Stallone) into a successful country singer.

Over the years, Parton has continued to work as an actor in an array of movies and TV projects that include Steel Magnolias (1989), Straight Talk (1992), Unlikely Angel (1996), Frank McKlusky, C.I. (2002), and Joyful Noise (2012), having also hosted her own variety show in both 1976 and 1987-88.

The 1980s also saw Parton branch out in another new direction. Investing her considerable earnings into a variety of business ventures, she opened her own theme park called Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, in 1986. The amusement park remains a popular travel destination to this day. Located near her hometown, Parton said she invested in the park because “I always thought that if I made it big or got successful at what I had started out to do, I wanted to come back to my part of the country and do something great, something that would bring a lot of jobs into this area.” Today, more than three million people visit Dollywood annually.

Parton is the co-owner of The Dollywood Company, which owns and operates a number of properties and entertainment venues in addition to the Dollywood theme park. Among them are the waterpark Dollywood’s Splash Country, the dinner attraction Dolly Parton’s Stampede, the Dream More Resort and Spa, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Cabins, and more. It’s estimated Parton’s 50 percent stake in the Dollywood theme park alone is worth about $165 million .

In 1992, Whitney Houston recorded Parton’s song “I Will Always Love You” for the film The Bodyguard . Houston’s version catapulted Parton’s song into a new stratosphere of popularity, with the single sitting atop the pop charts for 14 weeks and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. “When Whitney did it, I got all the money for the publishing and for the writing, and I bought a lot of cheap wigs,” she told Anderson Cooper when he asked her how she spent her royalties from the song.

The next year, Parton teamed up with Loretta Lynn and Tammy Wynette for the album Honky Tonk Angels . Parton revisited her now-signature song “I Will Always Love You” in 1995 as a duet with Vince Gill . Next, Parton explored the music of her Appalachian roots with The Grass Is Blue (1999) with a little help from Alison Krauss and Patty Loveless. The record won a Grammy—Parton’s sixth—for Best Bluegrass Album in 1999. That same year, Parton was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and won another Grammy in 2001 for the song “Shine” off her album Little Sparrow .

Continuing to write and record, Parton released Backwoods Barbie in 2008. The album featured two country singles, “Better Get to Livin’” and “Jesus & Gravity.” In 2011, Parton released the album Better Day , which included recordings by Parton of songs she previously wrote for the Broadway adaptation of the 9 to 5 movie. In August 2020, Parton released A Holly Dolly Christmas , her first holiday album in 30 years , which featured guest appearances by singers like Michael Bublé , Billy Ray Cyrus, Miley Cyrus , and Willie Nelson .

In November 2022, Parton announced plans to release her first rock music album—appropriately titled Rockstar —partially in response to her nomination to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame earlier that year. The album released on November 17, 2023, and features covers of famous rock songs, as well as collaborations with many artists from the genre. Among the covers are Parton’s versions of Prince ’s “Purple Rain,” Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball,” The Rolling Stones’ “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” and Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven.” Paul McCartney , Ringo Starr , Elton John , Sting , Lizzo , and Pat Benatar are among the artists who appear in tracks on the new album.

Parton has a projected net worth of $650 million , which includes profits from albums, singles, movies, Dollywood theme park, and other business ventures. She earned $20 million in royalties from Whitney Houston ’s cover of “I Will Always Love You” alone. Part of her wealth derives from Parton’s insistence on owning her entire song catalog, which Forbes estimates is worth about $150 million.

With a career spanning seven decades, Parton has won a multitude of awards and lifetime honors. She was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999, the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2001, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. Parton initially declined her Rock & Roll Hall nomination because her music wasn’t part of the rock genre and she didn’t “feel I have earned that right,” but she later accepted after learning other non-rock musicians had been inducted and that fans help vote for inductees.

In 2006, Parton received special recognition for her lifetime contributions to the arts as one of five artists feted at the annual Kennedy Center Honors. At the 50 th Annual CMA Awards in 2016, Parton was honored as the recipient of the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award.

A decorated Grammy winner, Parton has taken home 10 trophies, as well as the organization’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011. Three of her songs—“I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” and “Coat of Many Colors”—have been enshrined in the Grammy Hall of Fame. Parton received another Grammy tribute during the February 2019 ceremony, with artists like Katy Perry , Miley Cyrus, and Kacey Musgraves joining her on stage to sing a medley of her hits. In November 2023, Parton received her 54 th Grammy nomination; her single “The Last Thing On My Mind” will compete for Best Country Solo Performance at the 2024 Grammy Awards in February.

Later in 2019, Parton joined a televised special to celebrate her 50 th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. The previous year’s edition of the Guinness World Records recognized Parton for her accomplishments of most decades with a Top 20 hit on Billboard ’s Hot Country Songs chart (six) and most hits on Billboard ’s Hot Country Songs chart by a female artist (107). In 2021, Time magazine named her to its annual Time 100 list of the most influential people.

Parton has two Academy Award nominations, both for Best Original Song, to her name. She picked up her first with “9 to 5” in 1980 and her second for “Travelin’ Thru” from the 2005 movie Transamerica .

Parton has been married to Carl Dean since 1966. The couple met at a Nashville laundromat, the Wishy Washy, two years earlier. On their 50 th anniversary, the two renewed their vows. “My husband is not one who wants to be just thrown out there,” she has said about Dean. “He’s very private, and I’ve always respected that for him and about him.”

Parton doesn’t have any children. Alluding to her philanthropy work with children, Parton said during a 2017 interview on the Today show : “ God has a plan for everything. I think it probably was his plan for me not to have kids so everybody’s kids could be mine. And they are now.” Parton is the godmother of pop singer and actor Miley Cyrus .

Parton has worked with charitable organizations in support of numerous causes over the years and established her own Dollywood Foundation in 1996. With the goal of improving literacy among young children, she created Dolly’s Imagination Library , a program that donates more than 10 million books to children annually. “They call me the Book Lady. That’s what the little kids say when they get their books in the mail,” she told The Washington Post in 2006. “They think I bring them and put them in the mailbox myself, like Peter Rabbit or something.”

Though many of her charitable contributions are anonymous, Parton has used her success to give back to her community by providing scholarships for children, donating thousands to hospitals, and providing technology and supplies for classrooms.

After the town of Gaitlinburg, Tennessee, and other towns near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park were devastated by wildfires in 2016, Parton helped raise $12.5 million to support the victims and help rebuild the area. She advised Oprah and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson when they launched a similar after in the wake of the 2023 Maui fires.

Parton donated $1 million to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center during the COVID-19 pandemic, which helped support the early development of the Moderna vaccine . After the vaccine was available, Parton filmed herself receiving the shot and publicly urged her fans to get vaccinated as well, adapting her famous song “Jolene” with the words “Vaccine, vaccine, vaccine, vaccine.”

Parton has written and released several books, including the 1994 memoir Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business and the 2012 book Dream More: Celebrate the Dreamer in You . In 2022, she partnered with best-selling author James Patterson to co-write the thriller novel Run, Rose, Run , about an aspiring country singer.

Dolly Parton ’ s Coat of Many Color s, a television movie biopic about the singer’s childhood, aired in 2015. It starred Alyvia Alyn Lind as young Dolly and Sugarland star Jennifer Nettles as Parton’s mother. A two-hour documentary Biography: Dolly, aired on A&E in 2020, tracing Parton’s extraordinary journey from her childhood spent in poverty and early days in Nashville to her multiple hit songs.

• I’m not offended by dumb blonde jokes because I know that I’m not dumb. I also know I’m not blonde.
• As soon as I could, I started my own publishing company, got my own record label. I think it’s important, if you can, to keep all of your goods close to home where you can control them and know what’s happening with them.
• When I write, I don’t try to be commercial. I just write what I feel and hope that it might turn out to be a “Jolene” or an “I Will Always Love You.” You can’t really purposefully try to do that. If they’re good, they’re good, and if they’re mediocre, they’re mediocre. I got a lot of them, too.
• I think that I’ve been at this so long that [my audience has] come to know me, they know I’m not judgmental. They know I like everybody. I want to be accepted myself, and I not only accept, but celebrate the difference in everyone.
• I love to think of myself as an entertainer. I make things look like I’m better than I am, because I like to entertain. Even that tongue-in-cheek kind of stuff—when I say, “I know it so well I can play it backwards,” and I turn myself backwards—that’s corny as hell. But it works!
• My husband is not one who wants to be just thrown out there. He’s very private, and I’ve always respected that for him and about him. And so, we just try to live our lives. Everybody is not entitled to every single thing you do and thought you think, although I do share as much of my life as I possibly can. I’m not holding back any information, but there are just some things that are sacred and private.
• I look just like the girls next door... if you happen to live next door to an amusement park.

Fact Check: We strive for accuracy and fairness. If you see something that doesn’t look right, contact us !

The Biography.com staff is a team of people-obsessed and news-hungry editors with decades of collective experience. We have worked as daily newspaper reporters, major national magazine editors, and as editors-in-chief of regional media publications. Among our ranks are book authors and award-winning journalists. Our staff also works with freelance writers, researchers, and other contributors to produce the smart, compelling profiles and articles you see on our site. To meet the team, visit our About Us page: https://www.biography.com/about/a43602329/about-us

Colin McEvoy joined the Biography.com staff in 2023, and before that had spent 16 years as a journalist, writer, and communications professional. He is the author of two true crime books: Love Me or Else and Fatal Jealousy . He is also an avid film buff, reader, and lover of great stories.

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The Queen of Country: Dolly Parton's Greatest Movie Roles

Loving Dolly is a 9-to-5 job.

There are few stars that have hit the level of fame that Dolly Parton has, and even harder to become as universally beloved and admired as Dolly. In this ever-changing world, with new forms of disagreements and arguments popping up daily, Dolly has remained a fixture of pop culture and a unifying presence that can bring even the most stubborn of enemies closer together with just one sound of Dolly's angelic voice.

Related: Dolly Parton's 'Run, Rose, Run' Acquired by Sony Pictures

While an incredibly talented musician, singer, and songwriter, Dolly Parton has also ventured into philanthropy and theme parks during her long career and the glitzy Hollywood world of film. Dolly's presence in every movie she's in always manages to steal the show, and no matter how terrible a film may be, Dolly Parton will always shine.

Doralee Rhodes — '9 to 5' (1980)

Alongside legendary comedians Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda , Dolly Parton starred in her first-ever movie role as Doralee Rhodes in the hit 1980 workplace comedy 9 to 5 , which not only helped to establish Dolly Parton's fruitful acting career but also helped to propel her into super-stardom further and become a household name across the globe. Doralee is the secretary to her chauvinist boss and the film's main antagonist Frank Hart ( Dabney Coleman ), who constantly sexually harasses her and starts a rumor that they are sleeping together, resulting in the rest of the office's staff shunning and ostracizing her.

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For the first time acting in a film, Dolly does an excellent job alongside Lily and Jane and helps to showcase the rampant sexual harassment that occurred (and still does) in the workplace at the time while still being just as funny and charming as the film needs her to be. 9 to 5 is undoubtedly Dolly's best acting work, and the film's message still rings true to modern audiences, for better or worse.

Mona Stangley — 'The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas' (1982)

Despite the film's incredibly raunchy title, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas is surprisingly tame and doesn't dig deep into anything risqué apart from dressing Dolly into lacy lingerie and other scantily clad outfits from time to time. For the most part, Dolly does an excellent job playing the role of the brothel's madam in this film. The original source material is a musical that allows Dolly to show off her exceptional singing, especially by including Dolly's own "I Will Always Love You." However, this film still doesn't quite reach the same level of brilliance that 9 to 5 achieved.

The chemistry between the romantic leads, Dolly and Burt Reynolds, isn't really any special either and gives less of a will-they-won't-they sexually tense atmosphere and more of a boring married couple. Despite its many flaws, including its troubled production, it's still a fun movie with excellent costumes. Dolly's charming performance and singing will at least be entertaining enough to sit through.

Jake Farris — 'Rhinestone' (1984)

In one of the weirder, more-or-less forgotten movies that Dolly Parton has been a significant part of, her involvement in Rhinestone alongside Sylvester Stallone, of all people, is probably the biggest flop. The film's plot centers around Dolly's character Jake attempting to turn Sylvestor's character Nick, a rude New York taxi driver, into a genuine country music sensation.

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The film was a major critical and commercial flop, and Sylvester has even admitted that he regretted making the film in later interviews . Still, she and Stallone reportedly had a lot of fun working together , so at least there's a silver lining. This film isn't nearly up to par with her previous or future lustrous films in her career, but at least it wasn't a production nightmare.

Truvy Jones — 'Steel Magnolias' (1989)

Dolly Parton in Steel Magnolias is a real return to form for Dolly's film career, and she is more than a delight to watch alongside a young Julia Roberts, Sally Field, and Shirley MacLaine . The film is based on the play of the same name by Robert Harling, written in memory of his sister's abrupt death, and is the first drama that Dolly ever starred in. She plays the role of Truvy, the town's hairdresser and whose home acts as the base for the other female characters to gossip and become closer to one another, with Truvy's home becoming a beacon of female solidarity and love.

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The film is heartbreaking, emotional, and profoundly moving and is one of Dolly's best films and performances ever. It's no surprise that another female-ensemble-led film, like 9 to 5, really allowed Dolly to shine and not have to rely on the romance or chemistry with one of Hollywood's leading men instead, letting her natural charm work excellently off the talents of the other actresses and shows off her humor and kindness rather than her sex appeal. Steel Magnolias is a must-watch for any Dolly Parton fan and will find a place in your heart.

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10 Best Dolly Parton Movies of All Time

The Queen of Country is also a pretty iconic actress, and these films prove it.

Parton went on to star in a number of films that have become a cherished part of American culture. From Steel Magnolias to A Smoky Mountain Christmas to Joyful Noise , here are the absolute best Dolly Parton movies of all time.

"9 to 5" (1980)

Not only is 9 to 5 one of the most iconic movies starring Parton, but it actually her first movie role ever . In the hit film, Parton plays a secretary alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin; they get revenge on their sexist boss by abducting him. The country star also wrote the movie's theme song, "9 to 5," and she received her first Golden Globe nomination for her work. Parton, Fonda, and Tomlin have remained great friends decades after working together on this film.

"The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" (1982)

In The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas , Parton plays a Texas brothel madame named Mona Stangley. Mona is respected in the community, because her friend and local sheriff Ed Earl Dodd (Burt Reynolds) looks after her. However, a reporter exposes her work, and officials attempt to shut down her business. Parton earned her second Golden Globe nomination for her role as Mona. The soundtrack to The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas , which was originally adapted from a 1972 play, inspired Parton to write "I Will Always Love You," one of her most famous songs to date.

"A Smoky Mountain Christmas" (1986)

Long before Hallmark's Christmas at Dollywood , Parton starred in another holiday film, A Smoky Mountain Christmas, in 1986. In the movie, Parton plays Lorna Davis, a disheartened country star who escapes to a friend's cabin over the holidays. Instead of being greeted by her friend, however, Lorna finds seven orphans dwelling in the place. She cares for them and protects them against an evil witch woman. Parton later opened up a special Smoky Mountain Christmas theme park at Dollywood in honor of the movie.

"Steel Magnolias" (1989)

Set in a small town in Louisiana, Steel Magnolias shows the bond of six friends as they encounter love, loss, tragedy, and good fortune over the course of their lives. Parton plays Truvy Jones, a hair dresser whose salon becomes a place for the women to gather and gossip. The film—an adaption of Robert Harling's play—is based on the true story of Harling's sister losing her life to diabetes complications. Steel Magnolias was also Julia Roberts's breakout film, and it became one of the highest grossing films in 1989 .

"Wild Texas Wind" (1991)

In this thriller, country singer Thiola Rayfield, played by Parton, moves in with her band's manager, Justice Parker. Justice, who turns out to be violent, abusive, and an alcoholic, is found murdered, and Thiola is a prime suspect. Wild Wind Texas follows Thiola's band, Big T and the Texas Wheel, on their journey to success. Parton also wrote an original song for the film, "Wild Texas Wind."

"Straight Talk" (1992)

Here, dance teacher Shirlee Kenyon, played by Parton, flees Arkansas, leaving behind her boyfriend, in search of a fresh start in Chicago. Once settled in her new city, Shirlee lands a job as an on-air radio psychologist, where she becomes known as "Doctor Shirlee." After her show takes off, a local television reporter digs into Shirlee's past and discovers that she's not who she says she is. He also begins to crush on the bubbly blue-eyed radio host.

"Unlikely Angel" (1996)

When country music star Ruby Diamond, played by Parton, dies suddenly in an accident, she expects to go right to heaven. But the singer learns that before she can enter, she has to go back to Earth and do a good deed. Saint Peter sends Ruby to change the heart of a workaholic by persuading him to reunite with his children for the holidays. The holiday-themed movie also features two original songs written, of course, by Parton.

"Blue Valley Songbird" (1999)

Parton once again plays a country music singer, Leanna Taylor, in this late '90s film. The struggling artist works to overcome a possessive boyfriend, an estranged mother, and a troubled past by heading to Nashville to pursue her dreams. She leans on her attractive guitarist (Billy Dean) to help her face her past so she can move forward in her career. In the end, Leanna is able to reconcile with her mom and break free from her relationship.

"Joyful Noise" (2012)

Set in the small town of Pacashua, GA, Joyful Noise tells the story of two women who are forced to work together to save Divinity Church Choir after budget cuts threaten their ability to keep singing. The National Joyful Noise Competition is the perfect chance to redeem the group's reputation, but leaders G.G. Sparrow (Parton) and Vi Rose Hill (Queen Latifah) can't find common ground with their styles.

"Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors" (2015)

Based on a true story, Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors details the country star's upbringing in 1955. At the time, Parton and her 11 siblings were growing up in a one-bedroom cabin in Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains. After Parton loses her brother prematurely, her mother stitches his baby blankets together into a coat for her, which attracts bullying at school. Young Parton, played by Alyvia Alyn Lind, leans on her family and music to cope. She aspires to help her family overcome hardship.

Currently an assistant editor at Prevention.com, Nicol is a Manhattan-based journalist who specializes in health, wellness, beauty, fashion, business, and lifestyle. Her work has appeared in Women’s Health, Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Houston Chronicle, Business Insider, INSIDER, Everyday Health, and more. When Nicol isn't writing, she loves trying new workout classes, testing out the latest face mask, and traveling. Follow her on Instagram for the latest on health, wellness, and lifestyle.

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The Best Dolly Parton Movies

Dolly Parton's remarkable talent extends beyond her musical achievements, as demonstrated by her outstanding filmography. From heartwarming dramas to delightful comedies, her films have captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Exploring the best Parton movies reveals the diverse talent and immense charm this star brings to the screen. 

The best Parton movies showcase  her incredible acting abilities but also remind us of her significance in the world of cinema. These films represent highlights in Parton's illustrious screen career, presenting the talent and versatility that have made her a beloved figure both on and off the stage. There's something magical about watching Parton light up the screen, creating memorable characters that continue to resonate with viewers long after the credits roll. 

Throughout the years, Dolly Parton has brought countless memorable characters to life. Among these exceptional Parton films, certain movies stand out as examples of her exceptional talent. In 9 to 5, she delivers a powerful performance alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, tackling workplace inequality with wit and grace. In Steel Magnolias, Parton portrays a strong, complex woman, balancing humor and heartbreak in this beloved classic. In A Smoky Mountain Christmas, she tackles a more whimsical role, bringing her signature charm to this enchanting holiday tale. These movies, among others, exemplify the best of Parton's cinematic contributions. 

Parton's mesmerizing performances have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, proving that this prolific artist's talents extend far beyond the recording studio. With each role, Dolly Parton reinforces her status as a true cinematic star, whose films continue to delight and captivate generations of fans. 

• # 286 of 769 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 95 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
• # 107 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films

Steel Magnolias

• # 258 of 769 on The Most Rewatchable Movies
• # 112 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
• # 119 of 278 on 'Old' Movies Every Young Person Needs To Watch In Their Lifetime

A Smoky Mountain Christmas

The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas

• # 78 of 204 on Musical Movies With The Best Songs
• # 299 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
• # 123 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films

Straight Talk

• # 87 of 98 on The Best Movies of 1992
• # 13 of 55 on The Best Mistaken Identity Movies
• # 35 of 64 on The Best Movies About Becoming Famous

Joyful Noise

Unlikely Angel

Wild Texas Wind

Blue Valley Songbird

Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous

Gnomeo & Juliet

• # 5 of 9 on The Best Soundtracks and Scores by Elton John
• # 354 of 448 on The 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
• # 66 of 155 on The 150+ Best Classic Tween Movies

Dolly Parton & Friends

Dolly Parton and Friends: On the Country Train

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Dolly Parton's Mountain Magic Christmas

• # 88 of 126 on The Best Christmas Movies Of All Time
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15 Best Dolly Parton Movies to Embrace Your Inner Country Queen

All hail the Queen of Country!

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That's why we've rounded up a list of the best Dolly Parton movies for your viewing pleasure. Dolly's films are truly timeless, so you'll find cult classics like Steel Magnolias and 9 to 5 from the '80s all the way to a documentary that was made in 2020. There are plenty of family-friendly picks listed here, including Coat of Many Colors and Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love that take inspiration from the idol's humble beginnings. You can count on killer soundtracks, dramatic twists, and swoon-worthy romance for an unforgettable, Dolly-filled movie night. Grab your popcorn and start watching!

In this hilarious revenge movie, Dolly teams up with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomplin to trap their terrible boss and assume control of their office. You guessed it: Dolly's hit tune by the same name comes from this classic flick. 

Steel Magnolias

Take a trip to Natchitoches, Louisiana with this cult classic featuring a star-studded cast. Dolly plays a charming, big-mouthed beautician named Truvy Jones. 

The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas

Buckle your seatbelts for this whirlwind of a musical comedy! Dolly truly shines in this classic, boasting her vocals and acting skills. 

Coat of Many Colors

This family-friendly movie is based on Dolly Parton's upbringing in rural Tennessee. The inspiring film is a testament to love, faith, and family.

Dolly Parton's Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love

In this festive sequel to  Coat of Many Colors,  viewers once again learn about the early life of the country legend. This feel-good movie is perfect for bringing some Dolly magic to your holiday celebrations. 

Unlikely Angel

Dolly portrays a country star named Ruby Diamond who must help out a widowed father and his family in order to earn her wings and become an angel. 

A Country Christmas Story

Searching for a heart-warming film perfect for festive movie nights? Look not further than this inspiring tale about a young girl's quest for stardom. 

Joyful Noise

Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah play rival church choir members as they prepare for a national competition. This movie is one song-and-drama-filled adventure that you won't want to miss out on.

The Blue Valley Songbird

Dolly stars as Leanna Taylor, a wide-eyed singer who must confront her past and overcome personal challenges in order to achieve her dreams. 

Straight Talk

Find out what happens when Dolly Parton accidentally becomes an on-air radio psychologist in this wonderfully silly rom-com. 

TCFHE/ANCHOR BAY/STARZ Rhinestone

"God Won't Get You" and "Tennessee Homesick Blues" originated from this goofy flick perfect for movie night. Follow along as Dolly transforms Sylvester Stallone into a country singer. 

Frank Mcklusky, C.I.

Come for Dolly's cameo as David Sheridan's over-protective mother and stay for this seriously silly, action-packed adventure about an insurance claims investigator. 

Hallmark Christmas At Dollywood

Christmas, Dollywood, and the  Hallmark Channel —you can't go wrong with this festive flick that will give you all the holiday feels. 

The Beverly Hillbillies

The Clampetts return to the screen for this 1993 film that is fun for everyone! You won't want to miss out on the legend herself making an appearance. 

The Library That Dolly Built

"Dolly Parton is a symbol of how you can have a great combination of talent, world-wide recognition, but also give back and give to." Learn about Dolly's philanthropic side in this captivating and educational documentary. 

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Dolly Parton Biography (1946-)

Full name, Dolly Rebecca Parton (some sources spell given name "Dollie"); born January 19, 1946, in Locust Ridge (some sources cite Sevierville), Sevier County, TN; daughter of Robert Lee (a tobacco farmer) and Avie Lee (maiden name, Owens; some sources cite mother's name as Bessie Elizabeth Rayfield) Parton; sister of Stella Parton (a singer and actress), Rachel Parton (a singer and actress; also known as Rachel Dennison), Randy Parton (a singer and musician), and Floyd Parton (a musical performer and songwriter); married Carl Dean(a paving contractor), May 30, 1966; children: some sources cite a daughter,Virginia. Addresses: Agent: Sam Haskell, William Morris Agency, 151 South El Camino Dr., Beverly Hills, CA 90212.; Manager: Jim Morey, Morey Management Group, 335 North Maple Dr., Suite 351, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.; Publicist: Christine La Monte, Rogers & Cowan Public Relations, 1888 Century Park E., Suite 500, Los Angeles, CA 90067.

Famous Works

Further reference.

ADAPTATIONS The television movies A Smoky Mountain Christmas and Wild TexasWind were based on stories by Parton. OTHER SOURCES Books Busnar, Gene, Superstars of Country Music, J. Messner, 1984 Careff, Ed, Dolly Parton: Close Up/Up Close, 1983 Fleischer, Leonore, Dolly: Here I Come Again, Paperjacks Books, 1987 James, Oris, Dolly Parton: A Personal Portrait, 1976 Contemporary Musicians, Volume 24, Gale, 1999 Nash, Alanna, Dolly Parton (also known as Dolly Parton: The Early Years ), Reed Books, 1978 Parton, Dolly, Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business, HarperCollins (New York City), 1994 Parton, Willadeene, In the Shadow of a Song, Bantam (New York City), 1985 Parton, Willadeene, Smoky Mountain Treasures, introduction by Dolly Parton, Rutledge Hill Press, 1996 Parton, Willadeene, All-Day Singing and Dinner on the Ground, foreword by Dolly Parton, Rutledge Hill Press, 1997 Pasternak, Judith Mahoney, Dolly, Metrobooks, 1998 St. James Encyclopedia of Popular Culture, St. James Press, 2000 Scoby, Lola, Dolly Parton: Going to Town, 1985 Shue, Lori, Dolly Parton, 1990 Simon, George T., The Best of the Music Makers, Doubleday (New York City), 1971 Periodicals Country America, October, 1989, pp. 20-23; November, 1993, pp. 34-36, 38 Country Music, July/August, 1987, p. 30; September/October, 1989,p. 28 Country Standard Time, February/March, 2001, pp. 30-31 Film Comment, September/October, 1989, p. 62 Interview, July, 1989, p. 36; March, 2001, p. 95 Life, March, 1987 Ms., June, 1979; July, 1986, p. 14; January, 1987, p. 66 More, May, 2002, pp. 108-111, 132 New York Times Magazine, May 9, 1976 Observer, September 6, 1998 Paper, July, 1997, pp. 60-65, 87 People Weekly, April 21, 1997, p. 111; April 10, 2000, p. 22 Playboy, October, 1978, pp. 81-110 Playgirl, January, 1981 Rolling Stone, October 23, 1975; August 15, 1977 Saturday Evening Post, October, 1989, p. 46 USA Today, August 25, 1998

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Dolly Parton: Here I Am

In this documentary, the life, career and music of Dolly Parton are reflected in interviews with friends and companions and the artist herself, interlaced with clips of Parton's performances... Read all In this documentary, the life, career and music of Dolly Parton are reflected in interviews with friends and companions and the artist herself, interlaced with clips of Parton's performances. In this documentary, the life, career and music of Dolly Parton are reflected in interviews with friends and companions and the artist herself, interlaced with clips of Parton's performances.

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Dolly Parton : Show business is a money making joke. And I've always liked telling jokes.

• Soundtracks Dumb Blonde Written by Curly Putman Performed by Dolly Parton

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Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton To Be Honored At Hollywood Premiere Of Documentary ‘Still Working 9 to 5'

EXCLUSIVE: The stars of the 1980 classic 9 to 5 will be reuniting on the red carpet in Hollywood.

Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton are set to be honored May 29 as Women's Equality Trailblazers by the ERA Coalition Forward at the L.A. premiere of the documentary Still Working 9 to 5 . The film directed by Camille Hardman and Gary Lane examines the impact of the groundbreaking comedy and the ongoing struggle for women's equality in the workplace.

Fonda, Tomlin, Parton and Dabney Coleman from the original film all appear in the documentary. So do Rita Moreno, who starred in the TV adaptation of the film that ran from 1982-88 (playing Violet Newstead, the character Tomlin portrayed in the feature version), and Allison Janney, who starred in the Broadway production 9 to 5: The Musical (she, too, played Violet Newstead).

The premiere will take place at the Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center, Renberg Theatre in Los Angeles. Zakiya Thomas, president and CEO of ERA Coalition Forward said in a statement, “This premiere not only celebrates the enduring legacy of 9 to 5 but also underscores the urgency of [passing] the Equal Rights Amendment to ensure sex equality for all.”

In the documentary, which made its world premiere at the SXSW Festival in Austin, Texas, Tomlin observes, "We’re still having this same conversation about equal pay. There’ve been incremental improvements, but it’s hard for a whole stratum of society to give up its power and its expectations."

Parton comments, "Who knew that 44 years later l'd still be working 9 to 5. I believed then, and I believe now that every person deserves to be paid fairly for their work… no matter who they are. I think this documentary ( Still Working 9 to 5 ) shows that the struggle continues and that we all need to do our part to help make things better for everybody."

Fonda came up with the idea for the original 1980 movie. At first, she conceived of 9 to 5 as a drama, but ultimately it shifted to comedy while still getting its pro-equality point across. The overall message can be considered feminist, but in the documentary Fonda clarifies, "Not that feminism means that women have to take over, but it means coming into your own, it means having agency."

The Hollywood premiere, which will include a reception, will serve as a fundraiser for ERA Coalition Forward, a group comprised of 300 member organizations that advocate for gender, racial, economic and reproductive justice to LGBTQ+ rights across the country. The coalition says, "We bring together interconnected, intergenerational, and intersectional organizations under one banner: to advance sex equality. This is what unites us all."

Still Working 9 to 5 is directed and produced by Camille Hardman and Gary Lane. Executive producers include Larry Lane, Geralyn White Dreyfous, Shane McAnally, Regina K. Scully, and Steve Summers. The documentary, which enjoys a 93 percent approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, won three awards at the Idyllwild International Festival of Cinema, earned Outstanding Achievement at the Impact Docs Awards, and audience awards at the Nashville Film Festival, Atlantic Film Festival, and American Documentary Film Festival.

"The filmmakers are planning a social impact campaign to advance women's equality leading up to a release in the fall," according to a release. "This entertaining but groundbreaking film not only serves as a catalyst for dialogue on women in the workplace, but also underscores the urgency of ratifying the ERA to ensure equality for all."

Still Working 9 to 5 features a new version of Dolly Parton's title song from the original film, a duet with Parton and Kelly Clarkson.

You can watch the documentary trailer here:

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