“One of My Most Prized Possessions”: Billy Ray Cyrus Reveals the Dolly Parton Letter He Kept Private for More Than 30 Years
Billy Ray Cyrus has shared a handwritten letter Dolly Parton sent him more than 30 years ago, shortly after they first met in Chicago. He described it as one of his most treasured possessions and said he felt the time was right to make it public following Parton’s death.
The letter was written in spring 1992, as Cyrus’s “Achy Breaky Heart” was gaining attention and before the release of his album Some Gave All. Parton praised his talent and prospects, apologised humorously for being nervous when they met, and offered her help; the pair later performed together and collaborated again on “Christmas Where We Are”.
- Cyrus reveals a private letter from Parton.
- She wrote it shortly after meeting him in 1992.
- The musicians later collaborated several times.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Making the letter public can be seen as a respectful tribute to Dolly Parton and a way of preserving a personal moment that reflects her generosity towards an emerging artist. Sharing it after her death, with Cyrus having kept it private for decades, may suggest he was motivated by remembrance rather than publicity.
The case against
The letter was a private communication, and Parton cannot now consent to its publication or explain how she would have wanted it handled. Even a well-intentioned tribute can raise concerns about personal boundaries and whether an intimate exchange should become public simply because it has sentimental value to the recipient.