At the 16th Academy Governors Awards on November 16, Dolly Parton expressed her heartfelt gratitude through a video message, as she was unable to attend the event in person. The renowned artist received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, recognizing her significant contributions to charity.
Dolly Parton’s Message of Gratitude
In her video message, Parton reflected on her modest beginnings in East Tennessee. She shared a poignant lesson from her parents: the more you give, the more blessings return. “I have been blessed more than I ever dreamed possible, like with this award tonight,” she stated. “From my heart to yours, I truly thank you.”
Honorees of the Night
- Dolly Parton
- Tom Cruise
- Debbie Allen (Choreographer)
- Wynn Thomas (Production Designer)
Parton was among four distinguished individuals honored with honorary Oscars by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences that evening.
Health and Scheduling Conflict
Despite facing health challenges and mourning the loss of her husband, Carl Dean, earlier this year, Parton’s absence was unrelated to her health. Her publicist, Marcel Pariseau, clarified that she had a scheduling conflict when notified about the award.
Philanthropic Efforts
The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award highlighted Parton’s extensive charitable work. In 1988, she founded the Dollywood Foundation, aimed at supporting the educational success of children in East Tennessee. Through her program, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, over 285 million books have been distributed to children around the world.
A Legacy in Film
Parton is also celebrated for her film career, with notable performances in “9 to 5” and “Steel Magnolias.” She earned Oscar nominations for Best Original Song for both “9 to 5” and “Travelin’ Thru” from “Transamerica.”
Tributes from Fellow Artists
Lily Tomlin, Parton’s co-star from “9 to 5,” paid tribute during the awards. Recalling her own experience during filming, Tomlin noted, “Dolly memorized the whole darn script.”
Tomlin emphasized the love and respect people have for Parton, stating, “She is one of the few people who remain in this world that everyone loves and respects.”
Tom Cruise also honored Parton, describing her as an “American original” and acknowledging her profound impact on countless lives through her music and philanthropy.
