CMA Hosts Star-Studded Television Tribute to Honor Dolly Parton

Artists from across the entertainment world gathered on Wednesday evening for a live two-hour television special honoring the extraordinary life and career of Dolly Parton. The broadcast, titled "CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton," aired live on ABC and Disney+ from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET, broadcasting directly from the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Nashville's Belmont University.

The country music legend passed away on August 25 at the age of 80 following a brief battle with cancer. Nearly two months after her death, the Country Music Association organized the star-studded event to remember her lasting impact on generations of fans. All ticket proceeds from the live show directly benefit Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, the charity founded by the singer to mail free books to young children.

The tribute featured an extensive lineup of A-list performers and special guests paying homage to the Country Music Hall of Famer. Among those scheduled to take the stage were Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire, Brad Paisley, Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, Zac Brown, Kelsea Ballerini, Darius Rucker, and Carly Pearce. Additional appearances included Kristen Bell, Kristin Chenoweth, Amy Grant, and Kimberly Williams-Paisley, alongside a student ensemble from Belmont University.

Reba McEntire, a close friend of Parton, spoke about reflecting on the icon's passing during a recent television appearance. Recalling her initial reaction to the news, McEntire shared that she reminded people not to view it purely as a sad occasion, noting that Parton was going home to a celebration that included her late husband, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025 after more than 50 years of marriage. McEntire previously led an emotional tribute to Parton at the Emmys by performing "Appalachian Memories" with a live symphony.

Viewers wishing to watch the broadcast had multiple options, including live television viewing on ABC and Disney+, with streaming access available the following day on Hulu. For those unable to watch the live premiere, various television streaming providers offered alternative ways to tune in to the network event.

Beyond the television broadcast, tributes to Parton's legacy continue across the country. In Nashville, Indiana, a dedicated tribute artist recognized personally by Parton is set to host a note-for-note recreation of the icon's music and life at the Brown County Music Center, complete with a local community book drive supporting early education.