In an exclusive interview with Good Housekeeping, Dolly Parton opened up about her decision to stop touring, offering fans a glimpse into the personal reasons behind her choice.
Despite being an iconic performer with a career that spans decades, Dolly revealed that she is no longer planning to hit the road for full-scale tours.
Dolly, who is well known for her energetic and captivating live performances, explained that the main reason for her decision is a shift in her priorities. She shared that she’s been focusing on various business ventures, including her music, book releases, and other projects.
However, the biggest factor in her decision is her husband, Carl Thomas Dean. Dolly mentioned with fondness that as she and Carl grow older—Carl being a bit older than Dolly—she feels it’s important to spend more time with him. This is a rare admission from Dolly, who typically keeps her marriage to Carl very private.
“I don’t tour anymore,” Dolly said, laughing.
“I’ve got so many business things I’m doing. And my husband and I are getting older — he’s a little older than I am — and I kind of need to be with him.”
She elaborated further, noting that the amount of time and effort it takes to organize a tour is immense, regardless of how old you are, and she’s already spent a lifetime doing so.
For Dolly, the commitment to a major tour requires more energy and time than she’s willing to dedicate at this stage in her life, particularly as she feels the need to spend more quality time with Carl.
While this news may be disappointing for fans hoping to see Dolly on the road again, Dolly was quick to reassure them that this doesn’t mean she’s retiring from performing entirely.
She expressed openness to performing her new songs, especially with other big-name artists, for television specials or award shows.
This suggests that, while she’s stepping away from the grueling schedule of a full tour, Dolly will still be actively involved in music and performance in a more manageable capacity.
She made it clear that her passion for music and performing hasn’t faded, it’s just that her approach to it is changing.
In addition to her focus on Carl and her business commitments, Dolly also addressed the idea of retirement in general. Known for her work ethic and zest for life, she reassured fans that she has no plans to retire anytime soon.
“I might take off for you know, a month instead of a week, but no, I don’t plan to ever retire unless my husband was sick and really needed me, or I was sick, that’d be the only two reasons I would ever quit,” Dolly said, adding, “And let’s hope that never happens.”
Her words reflect the sense of commitment and drive that has defined her career, and it’s clear that she’s not ready to step away from her work just yet, unless circumstances require it.
The announcement also comes as Dolly promotes her new album, Rockstar, which features collaborations with several high-profile artists like Elton John, Debbie Harry, and Sting, among others.
With over 30 tracks, including nine original songs, it’s clear that Dolly continues to produce new music that speaks to her evolving artistic vision.
Even without touring, Dolly’s fans can rest assured knowing that she’s far from stepping back from the spotlight.
Her decision to stay engaged in different facets of the entertainment world, alongside her personal commitments, reflects her balance between her career and her private life, something Dolly has always valued deeply.
And while the days of touring may be behind her, Dolly’s influence and legacy in music, culture, and entertainment will undoubtedly continue to inspire for years to come.
