Country music darling Dolly Parton is one of PEOPLE’s 2021 People of the Year. The popular magazine rewarded the multi-talented icon for her philanthropy work fighting against COVID-19, devastating floods, and illiteracy. In a wide-ranging interview, the real-life Dolly gave her thoughts on fame, working hard, and staying humble.
Here’s what Dolly has to say about working for her:
“I try to rule with love and compassion. But also, there’s a fine line that says, ‘She’s not a pushover.’ I’m a fair and honest person.”
You don’t amass a reported $350 million fortune by being a sweet and kind person all the time. Dolly is as smart as a whip and knows that sometimes you gotta kick some butts to get your way.
Dolly also warned about creative and energy “vampires” who will try to steal your time and talent for their benefit. This may explain why the “Jolene” singer is so private and keeps a notoriously small circle.
Growing up in the music business, I’m sure she experienced many people trying to take advantage of her. But even as a youngster, she remained fiercely independent. It is that DIY mindset that helped foster her success.
But, believe it or not, Dolly can’t do everything:
“I hire people. I see what I need and what I want, but I know I can’t do all that myself.”
Dolly Parton is opening up about her philanthropic efforts which helped fund the Moderna vaccine, her upcoming collaboration with author James Patterson, and how even at 75-years-old, she has no plans to slow down anytime soon. ? Watch the full special: https://t.co/0GotvMx44F pic.twitter.com/rCZSvfOy4A
— People (@people) December 1, 2021
Despite being a literal Angel on Earth, Dolly Parton is quick to caution that she does not want people worshiping her or idolizing her
“But I don’t want to be worshiped, because there’s a scripture in my Bible that talks about idol worship. And I see that happening all the time with movie stars and these celebrities. People literally worship them more than they worship God. And I just — I cringe at it sometimes.”
I appreciate Dolly’s honesty here. It is so easy for stars to fall into a trap of delusion and narcissism, especially if you’re as beloved as Dolly.
Deep down she’s that same girl who lived and wrote Coat of Many Colors.
Apart from being a music and film icon, Dolly Parton is an extremely savvy businesswoman.
On top of owning all of her own music (and refusing to let just anyone use it) Dolly is an entrepreneur and theme park impresario.
Dolly purchased the park near her home of Pidgeon Forge that would become Dollywood in 1986 and turned into a family-friendly attraction with rids, concerts, and arts and crafts celebrating Eastern Tennessee.
In addition to the theme park, there’s a water park, a hotel, and spa, and the Stampede live dinner theatre (think Medieval Times but with a southern flair.)
We certainly can’t argue with PEOPLE magazine for recognizing Dolly Parton as a 2021 Person Of The Year. If you ask most fans, they’d tell you she deserves to be in the running for person of the century.
Congrats to the Queen of Country. May she live long and prosper.
If you appreciate Dolly Parton as much as we do, share this story and some LOVE for the Queen herself.
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