Eminem Shares Dolly Parton’s Heartfelt Letter After Her Passing, Recalling Their Unexplained Bond

The rapper shared a note the country star wrote for him following his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Eminem paid tribute to Dolly Parton after her passing at age 80 on Tuesday, describing the country legend as a “superstar in every sense” and sharing a letter she had written to him years earlier.

Written after Eminem’s 2022 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, Parton’s letter congratulated him on the honor, praised his performance that night, and urged him to keep creating work that inspires others.

“Even though I don’t know much about rap music, I’ve come to recognize you as the very best at it,” wrote Parton. “I hope my words don’t seem odd or strange to you, but I have always felt an unexplained connection to you, as if I know you somehow. I had hoped to meet you at the show, but events like that are chaotic—I personally dislike them and missed my chance, though perhaps we’ll meet someday.”

The country icon added, “Keep doing what you’re doing—you do it exceptionally well. No matter how complex your world becomes, remember that you are special and touch people in ways you may not even realize.”

Alongside the letter he shared on social media, Eminem wrote in the caption: “I’m sorry we never had the chance to meet, but receiving this note from Dolly meant a great deal to me. She didn’t have to take the time to write it. Even as someone who grew up mainly listening to rap, I saw her as an icon—a superstar in every sense. Rest easy, Dolly. Thank you for your kind words.”