Dolly Parton’s nephew, Bryan Seaver, is seeking a postponement of a court hearing concerning a restraining order obtained by her estate against him.
Seaver Requests Delay in Restraining Order Hearing
In a Tennessee court on October 3, Seaver represented himself as he filed a motion requesting a delay of approximately ten days for an upcoming hearing scheduled for October 9. He cited the need for additional time to secure legal representation and prepare a defense. Seaver’s filing indicated a lack of legal expertise, stating that “the defendants lack any legal knowledge or skills” to proceed without counsel. He expressed a willingness to extend the restraining order until a new date is set for the hearing, although the judge, Chancellor I’Ashea L. Myles, has not yet responded to this request.
Background of the Restraining Order
The restraining order was initiated by Parton’s long-time manager, Danny Nozell, in September. He alleged that Seaver had made threats against him and displayed erratic behavior following the death of the country music icon on August 25. Notably, Seaver, who is Cassie Parton’s son and was previously employed as Parton’s head of security, was dismissed from his role shortly after her passing. Nozell has also filed a lawsuit against Seaver, accusing him of making personal and professional threats, which has reportedly led to unrest among staff, causing some to resign or require security measures.
The lawsuit claims extortion and threats, substantiated by messages Nozell says were sent by Seaver. The order granted by Myles stipulates that Seaver must maintain a distance of 1,000 feet from any employee of Nozell’s company, She’s Alive LLC, and refrain from communication with anyone associated with the company.
Controversial Text Messages
Reportedly, Seaver’s text messages included declarations of aggression, with one message claiming he had sold “$27 million worth of ammunition and arms” to police officials in Haiti on the day of Parton’s death. In these communications, Seaver described himself in a way that suggested a violent past, asserting, “I’m a killer.” He further threatened to tarnish Parton’s brand if he was not compensated appropriately.
In his defense, Seaver told media outlets that the content of his messages was not intended as threats but rather expressions of frustration shared in a private conversation with Nozell, whom he considered a friend.
As this legal battle unfolds, fans are closely watching the proceedings, as they not only affect the legacy of Dolly Parton but also reveal the complexities within her family and professional relationships.