Dolly Parton Opens Up About Grieving Late Husband Carl Dean: “I Can’t Afford the Luxury of Getting That Emotional Right Now”

After nearly six decades of marriage, country music legend Dolly Parton is facing one of the greatest personal losses of her life: the passing of her beloved husband, Carl Dean. Known for keeping their relationship out of the spotlight, Parton is now slowly beginning to share glimpses of her grief with the world.

In a rare and heartfelt appearance on the Khloé in Wonder Land podcast, Parton spoke with host Khloé Kardashian about how she’s navigating life after Carl’s death in March. “My husband passed away three months ago,” she said softly, her voice revealing both strength and sorrow. After 59 years together, the loss still feels raw — and it’s impacted her in ways even she didn’t expect.

One of the most surprising effects? She can’t bring herself to write music. “I can’t afford the luxury of getting that emotional right now,” Parton confessed. “Several things I’ve wanted to start, but I can’t do it. I will later… but I think I won’t finish it.”

The woman behind some of country music’s most beloved lyrics admits that inspiration still comes — beautiful, tender ideas float in — but finishing those songs feels out of reach. For now, her pen is quiet, not because she’s out of stories, but because her heart is still healing.

That said, Dolly Parton hasn’t slowed down. She recently announced a six-show Las Vegas residency at Caesars Palace in December. And in 2026, a new musical based on her extraordinary life — Dolly: An Original Musical — will make its official debut on Broadway after a premiere in Nashville.

While she may be pausing on songwriting for now, Parton continues to show up for her fans with grace, resilience, and purpose. In doing so, she reminds us that grief doesn’t mean stepping away — it simply means taking the time to breathe, to reflect, and to find your way forward, one day at a time.

Let’s enjoy the song “I Will Always Love You” again, maybe these are the words she wants to say to her husband.