Nearly two weeks ago, Dolly Parton celebrated her 80th birthday. The occasion came after a year filled with health concerns and tragedy.
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Fans and members of Parton's family were understandably concerned about the "Jolene" singer. After the death of her husband of 59 years, Carl Dean, Parton has been focusing on her health. However, this caused her to miss several events and led to the postponement of her upcoming residency in Las Vegas.
She didn't even attend her 80th birthday show at the Grand Ole Opry on Jan. 17.
But it looks like Parton is starting her 80th trip around the sun on a high note. She released an updated version of her hit "Light of a Clear Blue Morning" with Queen Latifah, Reba McEntire, Miley Cyrus, and Lainey Wilson. Proceeds from the song will support the Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville.
She also showed fans her trademark sense of humor is intact.
"Oh Lord, I've outlived so many plastic surgeons," she said on social media. "Well, happy birthday to me!"
And if you don't believe Parton, then listen to Kent Wells, Parton's longtime producer. He was behind the boards for the singer's latest hit and recently shared an encouraging update with Parade. We have details below.
Wells Says Dolly Parton Is "Singing Great"
Wells said he didn't know what exactly was going on with Parton last year. Since she canceled a few appearances, he believed that whatever it was hard to be "fairly serious." But he added that she seems to be herself again.
"She was over here at my studio last week," said Wells. "And she seems great. She's singing great, she looks fantastic and seems perfectly fine."
Dolly also told him there is "no issue" with her health and everything has been "taken care of."
He said, "I feel like she's great. She says she's great. She says there's no issue. They got it all taken care of, and that's all I know."
Wells added that Parton is back to "100%." And with the possibility of more new music from her this year, it sounds like 2026 is going to be Parton's best year yet.
