Dolly Parton to Be Honored by the Country Music Association With a Two-Hour Tribute Special
CMA Announces Two-Hour Live Tribute to Dolly Parton
The Country Music Association is preparing a special night to celebrate the life, music and legacy of Dolly Parton.
On September 16, 2026, the CMA announced “CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton,” a two-hour live television event honoring the legendary country music star, who died on August 25 at the age of 80.
The tribute is scheduled to air live on Wednesday, October 21, from 9 to 11 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, with the program becoming available to stream on Hulu the following day.
The event will be filmed live at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, continuing the university’s connection with Parton and her work. Robert Deaton, a veteran television producer, will serve as executive producer.
According to the CMA, the special will feature tribute performances, archival footage and personal stories reflecting on Parton’s extraordinary journey as a singer, songwriter, entertainer, humanitarian and entrepreneur. The program is designed to celebrate both her music and the lasting impact she had on generations of fans.
The full lineup of performers has not yet been announced. The CMA said additional information about performers, tickets and other details will be released in the coming weeks.
The tribute will also continue Parton’s legacy of giving back. The CMA and Belmont University said a portion of proceeds will be donated to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the literacy program that provides free books to children. Disney is also supporting the program.
For fans around the world, the two-hour event will offer an opportunity to revisit some of Parton’s most memorable moments while hearing stories from those who knew her and were influenced by her remarkable career.
As the country music community continues to mourn her loss, “CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton” will serve as a televised tribute to an artist whose influence extended far beyond music.
Source: abc7NY
