Overview
- Parton missed the NightFlight Expedition opening at Dollywood on Friday after a Nashville doctor told her not to travel because she was dehydrated and experiencing dizziness.
- She participated by prerecorded video at the ceremony, told fans she is "responding really well to meds and treatments," and asked guests to enjoy the new attraction.
- The absence follows a year of recurrent medical issues, including kidney stones and an infection, that led her to postpone and later cancel a planned Las Vegas residency.
- Major projects tied to her brand are continuing: Dollywood opened the new ride and her autobiographical musical will begin previews at the St. James Theatre on December 7th with an official Broadway opening on January 19th, 2027, and Parton is not in the cast.
- Fans voiced public worry on social media, and the episode raises the prospect of further scaled-back touring or postponed appearances as she continues treatment and recovery.