The Grand Ole Opry honored country legend Dolly Parton with a special celebration ahead of her 80th birthday. On January 17, the famous venue hosted a star-studded event titled “Opry Goes Dolly,” paying tribute to Parton’s iconic 1980s era—when her hairstyles were bigger, her fashion was brighter, and her hit film 9 to 5 captured audiences on the big screen.
Parton became a member of the Opry on January 4, 1969, and has taken the stage there more than 300 times throughout her legendary career.
The special night featured performances from Opry members Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, Rhonda Vincent, and Mark Wills. Additional guests including Trannie Anderson, Sierra Hull, Elizabeth Nichols, and the Opry Square Dancers also helped make the evening unforgettable.
Although Parton couldn’t attend in person, she shared a heartfelt video message with the audience. She thanked the Opry family for celebrating her birthday with her music and reflected on the many special memories she has made on the historic stage.
During the event, country star Reba McEntire also made a memorable appearance. Instead of performing, she entertained the crowd by sharing a funny story about her first time performing at the Opry.
McEntire made her Opry debut on September 17, 1977, and was originally scheduled to sing two songs. But shortly before her performance, she was told one of them had to be removed—because Dolly Parton had just arrived and would take that spot.
Reba joked that Parton could take both songs if she wanted, as long as she got the chance to meet her. She remembered seeing Dolly walk in wearing a stunning chiffon outfit with rhinestone butterflies and perfectly styled hair. In that moment, Reba thought to herself that she was looking at the most beautiful woman she had ever seen.
Even with the unexpected change, Reba still performed one song that night—marking the beginning of a long and celebrated relationship with the Grand Ole Opry.