Emmys 2026

Emmys tribute Dolly Parton's legacy with Reba McEntire tribute


Dolly Parton died last month, a loss that greatly affected the industry


Emmys tribute Dolly Parton's legacy with Reba McEntire tribute© Getty Images
Maria LoretoSenior Writer
SEPTEMBER 14, 2026 10:18 PM EDT

Dolly Parton's legacy was celebrated in one of the most emotional segments of the Emmys. The awards show kicked off at 8 PM ET on NBC and Peacock, honoring the best in television entertainment. Hosted by Mariska Hargitay, the show was positive and funny, with plenty of comedic bits. One of the most emotional segments of the night was a tribute to Dolly Parton, done by her close friend, fellow country star Reba McEntire, and the actress Sally Field

 Reba McEntire visits Dolly Parton backstage during Dolly Parton: Pure & Simple Benefiting The Opry Trust Fund at Ryman Auditorium in 2015© Getty Images
Reba McEntire visits Dolly Parton backstage during Dolly Parton: Pure & Simple Benefiting The Opry Trust Fund at Ryman Auditorium in 2015

Sally Field, who worked with Parton on the film "Steel Magnolias," introduced the segment, discussing Parton's work ethic and their friendship. "I adored her from day one, how could you not?" she said. "I am not the only one on Earth that will love you forever and ever." 

McEntire performed "Appalachian Memories," one of Parton's songs, after it was introduced by an old clip of Parton discussing the song's origins. "I love you, Dolly," said McEntire after the performance. 

Steel Magnolias actresses Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Shirley MacClaine, Dolly Parton, and Daryl Hannah in 1989© Getty Images
Steel Magnolias actresses Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Shirley MacClaine, Dolly Parton, and Daryl Hannah in 1989

McEntire has a long history as a singer, but she's also an actress and the lead "Happy Place," the NBC series. 

Following Parton's death, McEntire shared a short and sweet tribute on Instagram. “Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart,” she wrote. “There will never ever be another you.”

More details about Dolly Parton

Parton had publicly acknowledged health challenges before her death, but the extent of her condition was not widely known© NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via
Parton died in August of this year

Dolly Parton was an American icon. She was not only a singer of some of the biggest country hits in country history, but also an incredible songwriter, behind songs like "I Will Always Love You," "Jolene," "9 to 5," and more. 

Aside from her musical career, Parton was also an actress, starring in numerous movies and TV specials. Some of her biggest films include "9 to 5," alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, "Steel Magnolias," alongside Field and Julia Roberts, and "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas," alongside Burt Reynolds. 

Parton wrote songs for numerous of her films and played a key part in their timelessness.

Emmys tribute Dolly Parton's legacy with Reba McEntire tribute© Getty Images
Emmys tribute Dolly Parton's legacy with Reba McEntire tribute