NASHVILLE, TN — Dolly Parton may have skipped the glamour of Hollywood’s Governors Awards on November 16, but the country legend still captured the night’s biggest spotlight, accepting her first Academy Award through a heartfelt video message from her Nashville home.
The 79-year-old icon received the prestigious Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, honoring decades of philanthropy and humanitarian work. Though ongoing health concerns prevented her from traveling to Los Angeles, longtime friend and 9 to 5 co-star Lily Tomlin presented the award on her behalf during the ceremony.
A Golden Honor From the Heart
Appearing via video in a sparkling gold outfit that mirrored her new Oscar statuette, Dolly Parton opened her speech with warmth and humor.
“Well hi, everybody! I want to thank my good buddy Lily Tomlin for presenting me with this award. Hi Lily, I love you,” she said, before expressing deep gratitude to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Reflecting on her upbringing in a crowded household with 12 children, Parton credited her parents for shaping her lifelong commitment to generosity.
“That alone teaches you how important sharing is,” she shared. “My mom and daddy showed me that the more you give, the more blessings come your way.”
Calling the honor “the blessing of a lifetime,” Parton added that the recognition only inspires her to continue helping others. “It makes me want to find new ways to lift people up. Isn’t that what we’re here for?”
Health Pause — With Trademark Humor
The humanitarian Oscar marks Parton’s first Academy Award after two previous nominations for Best Original Song. Her absence from the ceremony had been announced months earlier, following the postponement of several Las Vegas concerts originally scheduled at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, now rescheduled for September 2026.
Addressing fans earlier in the fall, Parton revealed she needed “a few procedures,” easing concern with her signature humor: “It must be time for my 100,000 check-up — although it’s not the usual trip to my plastic surgeon!”
She reassured fans that her health issues were not serious but required her to remain close to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for treatment.
“I know everybody thinks I’m sicker than I am. Do I look sick to you?” she joked in a video update, adding confidently, “Don’t worry about me quittin’ the business — God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet.”
A Night Celebrating Legends
Parton shared the evening’s honors with several influential figures across the film industry, including choreographer Debbie Allen, actor Tom Cruise, and production designer Wynn Thomas — making the ceremony a celebration of artistic impact across generations.
Even from miles away, Dolly Parton proved that presence isn’t defined by location. With humor, humility, and heart, she turned a virtual acceptance into one of the night’s most unforgettable moments.