After a brief battle with cancer, Dolly Parton, country music singer, Hollywood star, and beloved icon in the queer community, has died at 80 years old.
Parton’s legacy will be forever immortalized with countless hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You” as well as her roles in films like Steel Magnolias and 9 to 5.
A true beacon of love and kindness, Parton was a vocal advocate for the queer community. She petitioned for marriage equality, defended transgender Americans, and championed drag culture.
Discussing her queer fanbase during a 2014 Billboard interview, Parton critiqued those who use religion as an excuse for homophobia, stating: “If people want to pass judgment, they’re already sinning… I try to love everybody.” While Parton was deeply religious herself, she saw her Christian faith as a responsibility of acceptance, not hate.
The Queerest 