Honor as an icon.
The Country Music Association has announced that it will produce a two-hour live television event in memory of Dolly Parton, who passed away on August 25th after a short battle with cancer.
“CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton,” filmed at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville, will honor Dolly Parton, the artist, singer, songwriter, actor, humanitarian and entrepreneur, with special performances, archival footage and personal stories chronicling her storied career.
“Dolly Parton belongs to the entire world, but she comes from this industry, and this industry owes her more than words alone can repay,” CMA CEO Sarah Trahern said in a statement. “As an organization founded to serve and celebrate country music, honoring her legacy is not just an opportunity, it’s our responsibility. This special is our way of saying thank you on behalf of all the artists, industry professionals, and fans who found their identity in her music.”
“Dolly gave country music her heart, and it’s an incredible honor to give a piece of that heart back to her,” said Robert Deaton, executive producer of the special. “My only hope is that we stand by her story, her music, and the people who loved her and make tonight feel like a fitting tribute to my friend.”
CMA and Belmont University will donate event proceeds to: Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library This gives away free books to millions of children every month. Disney also supports the Imagination Library to further its mission of helping children imagine their possibilities.
“Dolly Parton’s influence goes far beyond music. She represents creativity, generosity, entrepreneurship, and a dedication to uplifting others, qualities that inspire generations and resonate deeply with Belmont’s mission,” said Dr. Greg Jones, president of Belmont University. “For Belmont, it was an honor to partner with Dolly through the launch of DOLLY U and the world premiere of her musical at the Fisher Center. Now, we are honored to welcome artists, friends and fans from around the world to celebrate her extraordinary life and accomplishments from this stage in Nashville, and honor a woman whose love for Tennessee was woven into everything she did.”
“CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton” will air on ABC and Disney+ on October 21st, and will be available to stream on Hulu the following day.
The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of Hulu and this ABC station.
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