Dolly Parton cause of death revealed after cancer battle

New details have been released about what led to the death of country music legend Dolly Parton.

Parton died Tuesday, August 25, at the age of 80 following a brief battle with cancer, according to a statement from her representatives. TMZ first reported the cause of death, and PEOPLE later independently confirmed the information with Parton's team.

The revelation comes hours after news of Parton's death stunned fans across Louisiana and around the world, particularly because those close to the singer reportedly believed she would recover from the health problems she had been facing.

Dolly Parton's cause of death confirmed as cancer

Parton's representatives said the country music icon died following a brief battle with cancer.

According to the statement provided to TMZ, Parton was surrounded by loved ones at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville when she died.

Her representatives did not publicly identify the specific type of cancer in the statements reported Tuesday.

Parton's team remembered her as someone who brought joy, laughter, hope and integrity to those around her while also pointing to the enormous impact of her charitable work.

Dolly Parton's death reportedly came as a shock to family

Although Parton's health struggles had become public in recent months, TMZ reported that her death was still considered sudden by family and friends.

Those close to Parton reportedly knew she was sick but believed she would recover.

Parton had been hospitalized in Nashville for four days before her death. PEOPLE reported that she was admitted on August 21 and had also been dealing with kidney and autoimmune issues before her final hospitalization.

Just days before her death, Parton had continued talking publicly about her health and future plans.

Dolly Parton had scaled back appearances amid health issues

Concerns surrounding Parton's health had grown over the past year.

She previously postponed a planned Las Vegas residency because she needed medical procedures and eventually canceled those shows in May 2026. At the time, Parton told fans she was responding well to medication and treatment.

She also recently missed a Dollywood appearance because doctors advised her not to travel.

Despite those setbacks, Parton continued working and remained involved with business projects and her charitable efforts.

Her death on August 25 came just days after another public health update, making news of the cancer diagnosis especially significant for fans who had been following her condition.

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Tributes pour in for Dolly Parton

The reaction to Parton's death has stretched across entertainment, politics and generations of fans.

Among those remembering her were longtime friend and 9 to 5 co-star Jane Fonda and fellow country music star Reba McEntire.

Fonda remembered Parton for her humor, generosity and individuality, while McEntire said there would "never ever be another" Dolly Parton. Numerous other artists and public figures also shared tributes following the announcement of her death.

Dolly Parton leaves behind a massive legacy

Parton's influence reached far beyond country music.

During a career spanning more than six decades, she became known worldwide for songs including "Jolene," "9 to 5," "Coat of Many Colors" and "I Will Always Love You."

She also found success as an actress, businesswoman and philanthropist.

Parton's Imagination Library became one of her most recognizable charitable efforts, providing books to millions of children. She also supported medical research, including funding that helped support early research connected to Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine.