Billy Ray Cyrus is opening up about one of the many reasons Dolly Parton held such a special place in his heart.
As the country singer continues mourning Parton’s death, Cyrus, 65, shared a deeply personal memory of the late music icon on Instagram Friday, August 28.
Cyrus posted a throwback photo of himself performing alongside Parton at Dollywood, revealing that the moment came during a Christmas special where the longtime friends sang their song “Christmas Where We Are.”
“Rest in Peace Miss Dolly. This is the last performance she and I did together in Dollywood for her Christmas special. We sang ‘Christmas Where We Are’!” he wrote.
But behind that performance was a touching story that Cyrus said many people never knew.
Dolly Changed Her Schedule For Cyrus
Cyrus revealed that Parton went out of her way to support him after the death of his mother, Ruth Ann “Ruthie” Casto, in 2022.
According to Cyrus, Parton actually rearranged the production schedule for her project so he could have time to grieve.
“What most people don’t know is Dolly moved the entire film schedule shoot date because my mom Ruthie had passed away,” he shared.
The gesture clearly stayed with Cyrus, who described Parton as a rare source of light in his life and beyond.
“You have touched the hearts of the world,” he wrote. “You have made your mark and made it well …. A shining light that will shine on beyond the sun and moon …and certainly this crazy planet.”
Cyrus also said he would forever mark the moment after Parton’s passing as “After Dolly,” writing, “From this day henceforth is forever known as … at least in my broken heart 💔…. as After Dolly. A.D. 8.25.26 A.D.”
He Also Remembered Their Funny 1992 Encounter
Cyrus previously shared another memorable story about Parton in an Instagram tribute earlier this week.
The singer recalled growing up watching Parton on television before eventually developing a friendship with the country legend.
“In 1992, I’ll never forget walking into her dressing room to apologize for all the tabloid stories which claimed I was having an affair with her,” Cyrus wrote.
© NBCBut Parton apparently wasn't bothered by the rumors. Instead, she responded in classic Dolly fashion.
According to Cyrus, she winked at him and said, “Honey, this trash sells records!”
Dolly Sent Him A Final Message
Cyrus also revealed that Parton had recently sent him a personal message expressing how much she loved him.
“Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart,” he wrote.
Cyrus made it clear that the feeling was mutual, adding, “I will always love her in the same way ….. with my whole heart … and I always will.”
Dolly Parton’s Death
News of Parton’s death broke Tuesday, August 25. She was reportedly battling an undisclosed form of cancer before her passing.
A statement from her representative described the legendary entertainer as a beloved singer, songwriter, actress, philanthropist, playwright and author who died peacefully in Nashville, Tennessee.
© GettyThe statement also celebrated Parton’s lasting impact, saying her life was defined not only by her music and songwriting but also by the “wit, warmth and kindness” that made people around the world feel like family.
For Cyrus, that kindness was more than a public persona. It was something he experienced firsthand—and a gesture he clearly won't forget.
