What’s Going On With Dolly Parton? Her Sister Speaks Out After Asking For Prayers

One of Dolly Parton’s younger sisters, Freida Parton, is clearing the air. She recently clarified comments she made about the singer’s health after writing on social media that she was staying “up all night praying” for her sister’s recovery.

Earlier on Tuesday, Oct. 7, Freida shared a post on Facebook that read, “Last night, I was up all night praying for my sister, Dolly. Many of you know she hasn’t been feeling her best lately. I truly believe in the power of prayer, and I have been lead to ask all of the world that loves her to be prayer warriors and pray with me.”

She concluded the post by writing that Dolly’s “strong, she’s loved and with all the prayers being lifted for her, I know in my heart she’s going to be just fine,” Freida added. “Godspeed, my sissy Dolly. We all love you!”

After the post was published, Freida’s words sparked concern and prayers from fans who wanted to know more about Dolly’s condition. Her post received more than 4,200 comments and 17,000 likes amid speculation about the country legend, who lost her husband of more than 60 years in March and postponed her Las Vegas residency last week.

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On Tuesday evening, Freida took to social media again, this time to shed light on her earlier comments. “I want to clear something up,” she began. “I didn’t mean to scare anyone or make it sound so serious when asking for prayers for Dolly.”

Freida clarified that Dolly has “been a little under the weather, and I simply asked for prayers because I believe so strongly in the power of prayer. It was nothing more than a little sister asking for prayers for her big sister.” She thanked Dolly’s fans for “lifting her up” and said that their love “truly makes a difference.”

What’s Wrong With Dolly Parton?

Dolly Parton revealed in mid-September that she had a kidney stone that was causing her a lot of problems, which ultimately turned into an infection.

The singer revealed her diagnosis in a video to fans after missing the announcement of Dollywood’s new Night Flight Expedition ride, according to People. She added that her doctor advised her not to travel, and she needed a few days to get better.

A few weeks later, the 79-year-old country legend postponed her Las Vegas residency at the end of September due to health concerns.

In an Instagram post, Parton explained that her doctor told her she must undergo “a few procedures,” but she didn’t share details about what those would be. Due to these health issues, the singer said she won’t be able to rehearse for the Vegas show but will continue working on other projects from Nashville.

“You pay good money to see me perform, and I want to be at my best for you,” she continued. The shows scheduled from Dec. 4 through Dec. 13 have been postponed until September 2026, the announcement revealed.

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Parton also reassured fans that this health setback doesn’t mean she’s leaving the business. “And don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet,” she said. “But, I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you.”

After Freida’s latest post, another one of Dolly’s sisters, Stella Parton, added that Dolly has “been seeking treatment for kidney stones.”

“My sister Freida is concerned and ask for prayers on Dolly’s behalf,” Stella said in her post. “I personally, respect the privacy of ALL my family members and will not disrespect them by discussing their personal business with anyone.”

While Parton is unable to perform at the moment, she is working on a Broadway musical about her life titled Hello, I’m Dolly, which is set to open in 2026 and will feature music and lyrics written by the country star herself.

Stay tuned for more updates on Dolly Parton’s health.