Let’s face it—everyone, even celebrities, has someone they look up to. When ABC aired Dolly Parton: Here She Comes Again on Tuesday, November 12, country music superstar Carrie Underwood admitted something that probably won’t surprise anyone: Dolly Parton is her ultimate idol.
“Every time I’m around Dolly, I’m completely starstruck,” Carrie, 36, joked during the special. She went on to say, “I keep waiting for the day when I’m around her and I don’t feel that way, but honestly, I don’t think it’s ever going to happen.” And who can blame her? Dolly Parton isn’t just a country music legend—she’s a cultural icon who has inspired countless fans around the world.
Read also:Meredith Hayden Pictured With Cayman Jack At The Food Network New York City Wine Amp Food Festival
Dolly Parton: A Universal Love
Actress Kristin Chenoweth also chimed in about Dolly's widespread appeal. “I’ve looked everywhere, and I can’t find a single person who doesn’t adore Dolly Parton,” Kristin admitted. That’s not hard to believe, is it? Dolly’s charm, talent, and kindness seem to touch everyone she meets.
The Roots of Dolly’s Success
Before Dolly became the global sensation she is today, she was just a regular girl from Sevierville, Tennessee. Growing up in a large family, she learned some valuable lessons from her parents that helped shape her into the powerhouse we know now. Her father, Robert Lee Parton, instilled a strong work ethic in her, teaching her the importance of hard work and perseverance.
“I get a lot of my business sense from my daddy,” Dolly once revealed on Today. “He couldn’t read or write, but he was one of the smartest people I’ve ever known. He knew how to negotiate, bargain, and make deals. He figured out how to support a family of 12, keeping a roof over all our heads. That’s where I learned the value of hard work.”
Creativity from the Heart
When it comes to Dolly’s creativity, she credits her mother, Avie Lee Owens. “My mom is where I get my spiritual side and my creative spark,” Dolly explained. “Her side of the family was full of musicians, so I guess that talent just runs in the blood.” It’s no wonder Dolly has written over 3,000 songs in her career—she clearly inherited a rich musical heritage.
