Kelly Clarkson will never forget the kindness and encouragement Dolly Parton showed her during one of the most emotional moments of her life.
During a recent appearance on the Las Culturistas podcast, Clarkson reflected on her relationship with Parton and recalled a powerful backstage conversation they shared at the 2022 ACM Awards.
That night was especially meaningful for Clarkson because Parton had personally chosen her to perform “I Will Always Love You” as a tribute. Singing one of Parton’s most iconic songs for the legendary country star was an incredible honor—but just minutes before Clarkson was scheduled to take the stage, she received life-changing personal news.
Her divorce from Brandon Blackstock had officially been finalized.
Clarkson and Blackstock had been married for nearly seven years before announcing their separation in 2020. Their divorce was finalized in 2022, and the timing of the news left Clarkson understandably emotional before one of the biggest performances of her career.
When Clarkson crossed paths with Parton backstage, she opened up about what had just happened.
Parton responded with words of encouragement that Clarkson says she will always remember.
Although Clarkson did not reveal exactly what Parton told her, she explained that their conversation helped shift her perspective. Instead of allowing the difficult personal moment to overwhelm her, Clarkson was able to refocus on why she was there—to honor Parton through the performance.
Clarkson remembered the moment as something “really beautiful” and said Parton’s words were incredibly helpful.
She also realized that she could not allow herself to fall apart in that moment because the performance was about celebrating someone she deeply admired.
After speaking with Parton, Clarkson said she felt as though “so much had been lifted.” The encouragement gave her the strength to step onto the stage and deliver the tribute.
The memory has become even more meaningful following Parton’s death at 80 in August 2026 after a private battle with cancer. For Clarkson, that backstage exchange is now one of the many treasured memories she carries with her.
Clarkson has faced several major changes in her personal life in recent years. Blackstock died in August 2025 at age 48 following a three-year battle with cancer. The former couple shared two children, daughter River Rose and son Remington.
Following his death, Clarkson made spending time with her children a major priority. She has continued working, including returning as a coach on Season 30 of The Voice, while also making room for her family.
She recently released “I’d Be Lyin’,” her first new single in more than a year, marking another step forward in her music career.
But through all of the changes, Clarkson continues to remember the people who offered her support when she needed it most.
And Dolly Parton’s words from that emotional night at the ACM Awards remain a memory Clarkson says she will never forget.