After being presented with an honorary Oscar, Dolly Parton expressed her profound gratitude.
On Sunday (11.16,) during the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ 2025 Governors Awards at the Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles, the legendary country musician was given the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in recognition of her promotion of “human welfare and contributing to rectifying inequities” in the entertainment industry.
Though the superstar singer/actress was unable to attend the event due to a “scheduling conflict”, Parton’s her longtime friend, Lily Tomlin, honored her gal pal with a short speech and accepted the Oscar statuette on her behalf. Earlier in the night, Tomlin recounted how professional her co-star was on the set of the 1980 comedy, 9 to 5 – her debut film appearance, stating:
“During one rehearsal, I forgot a line, and (Dolly) recited it for me. She said that it was her first movie, so she thought she’d memorize the whole darn script. And she did. Even Dabney (Coleman)’s parts.” And praising her friend’s lifelong commitment to giving back, the now 86-year-old actress joked, “Dolly Parton is one of the few people who remain in this world that everyone loves and respects. Not just nine to five but 24 hours a day, every day of the year.”
In a pre-recorded video, the now 79-year old multi-hyphenate hitmaker thanked the Academy for the prestigious prize, stating:
“We didn’t have much to share, but my mama and dad showed me, by example, that the more you give, the more blessings come your way.” “And I have tried my whole life to live by their example. And I have been blessed more than I ever thought possible, like with this award tonight.” “To receive this? I mean, that’s a blessing of a lifetime.” “It makes me want to dream up new ways to help lift people up, and isn’t that what we’re supposed to be here for? So, from my heart to yours, I truly thank you.”
While dealing with health issues and mourning the death of her husband, Carl Dean who passed away at the age of 82 in March, Dolly has stepped back from the spotlight in recent months.
In addition to Dolly Parton, actor Tom Cruise, choreographer Debbie Allen, and production designer Wynn Thomas were also presented with Academy Honorary Awards amid the celebration.
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Author: Al Denté
Photo: Union20 at English Wikipedia Public Domain