Country artist Jelly Roll took a moment during his guest-hosting stint on Jimmy Kimmel Live to pay an emotional tribute to Dolly Parton.
“We lost a legend today,” he told the studio audience, reacting to news of her death on Tuesday. “She was such an inspiration to so many, myself included. We’re both from Tennessee, and she meant a lot to my family, y’all. We used to sit around the kitchen table and listen to her music together. I’ll never forget it.”
He continued, “I learned so much from Dolly over the years about songwriting, how to handle this crazy business, and how to support your community. So I want to send my love to East Tennessee and Sevier County right now, representing her. We love you, Dolly. We miss you.”
The musician concluded his remarks by saying, “She was infinitely talented. She was relentlessly funny. And adored by all. She might be the last American that everyone liked. We will miss her dearly. Rest in peace, Dolly. We will always love you.”
Parton died on Tuesday at the age of 80. Her team confirmed that the star had faced a brief battle with cancer and passed away surrounded by her loved ones in Nashville. Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, announced her death through a video message shared on Facebook.
“As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment, but haven’t truly felt it until now,” Seaver said. “It is an honor, an honor that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly.”
Since her passing, tributes have poured in from around the world. Artists and public figures ranging from Sabrina Carpenter to Taylor Swift to former President Barack Obama have honored Parton, highlighting her extraordinary talent, her kindness, and her deep commitment to giving back.
Later in the same episode of Kimmel, Jelly Roll sat down for a conversation with actress and comedian Leanne Morgan. The two bonded over their shared Tennessee roots, including fond memories of visiting Parton’s Dollywood theme park. “I raised my children at Dollywood,” Morgan shared. “I have a Dollywood season pass in my wallet right now.”