Country music’s biggest stars will come together to honor the life, music, and legacy of Dolly Parton in a special two-hour television event. Titled “CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton,” the tribute will air live on Wednesday, October 21, from 9:00 to 11:00 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, with Hulu streaming available the following day.
The Country Music Association and ABC announced the special following Parton’s death at age 80 on August 25. Rather than focusing solely on loss, the program is designed as a joyful celebration of the singer, songwriter, actress, humanitarian, and entrepreneur whose influence reached far beyond country music.
Star-Studded Lineup
The tribute will feature an impressive lineup of performers from country, bluegrass, Broadway, and beyond. Confirmed artists include Reba McEntire, Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley, Kelsea Ballerini, Lainey Wilson, Darius Rucker, Zac Brown, Vince Gill, Little Big Town, Lady A, Carly Pearce, Ashley McBryde, Ella Langley, Molly Tuttle, Ricky Skaggs, Sierra Hull, Béla Fleck, Lukas Nelson, Kristin Chenoweth, and Kristen Bell.
Special guests Amy Grant and Kimberly Williams-Paisley will also take part, while a Belmont University student ensemble will join a performance connected to the university’s “Dolly U” programming.
What Fans Can Expect
Filmed before a live audience at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville, the special will combine live performances, archival footage, and personal stories. The event will trace Parton’s remarkable journey from East Tennessee to becoming one of the most beloved entertainers and philanthropists in American history.
The program will celebrate both her musical catalog and her lasting cultural impact, bringing together Country Music Hall of Fame members, current country stars, and acclaimed artists from other genres.
Where and When to Watch
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Special title | CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton |
| Air date | Wednesday, October 21 |
| Time | 9:00–11:00 p.m. ET |
| Where to watch | ABC and Disney+ |
| Streaming | Available on Hulu the next day |
| Filming location | Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, Nashville |
The two-hour event will be executive produced by Robert Deaton, with additional surprise tributes expected from friends across the entertainment world.
Dolly Parton’s Lasting Legacy
Dolly Parton’s legacy extends well beyond her iconic songs, including “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You.” She was also known for her philanthropy, especially the Imagination Library, which has provided millions of children with free books.
This tribute special gives fans, fellow artists, and viewers around the world an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary career and generosity of a woman whose music continues to unite generations.