CMA Announces Star-Studded Live Television Tribute to Dolly Parton, ‘I Will Always Love You’

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Country Music Association (CMA) has officially announced a prime-time, live television event celebrating the unmatched life, music, and enduring legacy of global icon Dolly Parton.

Titled CMA Presents “I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton,” the two-hour broadcast will air live on Wednesday, October 21, at 9:00 p.m. ET / 8:00 p.m. CT across ABC and Disney+, with next-day streaming available on Hulu.

The special event will originate live from the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. Bringing together multiple generations of music royalty, the broadcast promises an unforgettable evening honoring Parton’s profound influence as a singer, songwriter, entertainer, philanthropist, and business leader.

A Star-Studded Lineup Honors a Country Legend

The CMA has unveiled a massive roster of performers spanning country, bluegrass, and broader entertainment. Featured performers set to take the stage include:

• Reba McEntire

• Carrie Underwood

• Vince Gill

• Brad Paisley

• Lainey Wilson

• Kelsea Ballerini

• Carly Pearce

• Ella Langley

• Ricky Skaggs

In addition to musical performances, special guest appearances will be made by Amy Grant and Kimberly Williams-Paisley.

The broadcast will feature a blend of live musical performances, rarely seen archival footage, and personal remembrances shared by close friends and collaborators. Organizers also tease additional surprise guest appearances and tributes throughout the night.

Celebrating Music, Memories, and Philanthropy

Throughout her multi-decade career, Dolly Parton’s impact extended far beyond the realm of country music. To honor her lifelong commitment to giving back, proceeds connected to the event will directly benefit Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Founded in 1995, the flagship literacy program has gifted over 200 million free books to children worldwide, continuing one of Parton’s most beloved and meaningful causes.

In addition to honoring her humanitarian legacy, the broadcast will feature a special collaboration with Belmont University’s DOLLY U initiative, highlighting an onstage performance by a student ensemble alongside established stars.

How to Watch CMA Presents “I Will Always Love You”

• Live Broadcast: Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, from 9:00–11:00 p.m. ET

• TV Channel: ABC

• Live Stream: Disney+

• On-Demand: Hulu (Available starting Thursday, Oct. 22)

For fans wishing to attend in person, ticket sales for the Nashville event benefit her Imagination Library. Tune in live on October 21 to witness country music’s biggest stars come together for a fitting tribute to a true international legend.