Eminem has publicly shared a private letter from Dolly Parton, paying tribute to the late country music icon who died on Tuesday at the age of 80. In his social media posts, the 53-year-old rapper expressed regret that the two never met in person, while praising Parton as 'an icon' even for someone rooted in hip-hop culture.
'I'm sorry we never got a chance to meet, but getting this note from Dolly really had an impact on me. She definitely didn't have to take the time to do it,' Eminem wrote. 'Even for a kid who mostly listened to rap music, she was an icon. A superstar in every sense. Rest easy Dolly. And thank you for the kind words.'
The 'Lose Yourself' chart-topper, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, also posted a photo of the handwritten letter Parton sent him after they were both inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of the 2022 class, alongside artists including Carly Simon, Lionel Richie, and the Eurythmics.
Dolly Parton's letter to Eminem
On special headed notepaper, Parton wrote: 'Marshall (Eminem), Congratulations on your induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Your performance was amazing and everybody said so. Even though I don't know a lot about rap music, I've come to know that you are the very best at it.'
She continued: 'Aside from that I hope what I have to say will not seem weird or strange but I have always felt some unexplained connection to you like I know you somehow.' The '9 to 5' and 'Jolene' singer revealed she had hoped to chat with Eminem at the ceremony, while admitting she used to 'hate' the hectic nature of such events.
'I had hoped to meet you at the show but you know how nuts those things are, personally I hate 'em and I missed my chance but maybe someday we'll meet,' she wrote. 'In the meantime, keep doing what you're doing because you do it so well and no matter how complex your world may be just know you are very special and touch people in ways you don't even know. With love and respect, Dolly Parton.'
Celebrities react to Parton's death
Parton had initially tried to remove herself from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, humbly doubting her standing in the category, before 'gracefully' accepting the honour when persuaded that many other artists outside rock music had been honoured before her.
Fans and fellow celebrities flooded Eminem's post with comments. Actor Josh Lucas, known for 'Sweet Home Alabama' and 'Yellowstone', wrote: 'The word "legend" and "American Icon" are thrown around too freely. But these are 2 of the true all-time greats… RIP Dolly. I know you're smiling and laughing in Heaven.'
Chris Wenger added: 'Man, there's something beautiful about one legend taking the time to recognise another, and just as beautiful to share her words with us all. Admiration for both. May she rest in peace.' Songwriter and producer Linda Perry, of 4 Non Blondes fame, commented: 'I produced this version. One of the most beautiful experiences in my life was making music with her. Heartbreaking to hear this song. Dolly will shine brighter than she has ever.'
Dolly Parton's passing and legacy
Parton's death was confirmed in a video message from her nephew Bryan Seaver, shared on her Instagram and X account on Tuesday night at her request. 'My name is Bryan Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, and I'm representing the Parton and Owens family today announcing the passing of my aunt, Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean, Sister, Sis and Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next,' he said.
Seaver, who served as her head of security for over two decades, added: 'This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality. It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly. Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents and countless others who have watched her and longed to meet her in the heavens.'
Her representative later revealed that Parton died after 'bravely facing a brief battle with cancer'. The type of cancer was not disclosed, though Parton had recently mentioned going through 'hard times' with her health and had pulled out of a fan event earlier this month due to 'dizziness and dehydration'.
President Donald Trump took the unusual step of lowering the US flag throughout the country for a whole week in honour of the late star. Beyoncé, who worked with Parton and recorded a reworked cover of 'Jolene' for her album 'Cowboy Carter', called Parton 'the barometer' and 'north star'. 'I'm honored that I had the privilege to work with you,' she added. 'I will treasure that forever. Thank you for your profound impact on the world. You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art. You are truly one of one. Rest peacefully.'
Sir Elton John said he was 'shocked and devastated to hear of Dolly's passing', describing her as 'a giant of an artist – unique and irreplaceable, with the kindest heart'. Taylor Swift stated: 'A world without Dolly doesn't feel possible, real, or right. But because of the eternally generous way she spent her time on this earth and the countless lives she changed for the better, her legacy will be an everlasting one.'
