Reba McEntire Shares What Dolly Parton Taught Her About Kindness: ‘I Love The Way She Carried Herself With Confidence’

Reba McEntire said Dolly Parton taught her about confidence, poise and treating everyone equally. Recalling Parton’s guest appearance on her television show, McEntire said she made the whole crew feel comfortable, while her humour could quickly put people at ease.

McEntire also described performing Parton’s “Appalachian Memories” at the 2026 Emmys as a personal farewell, wearing some of Parton’s jewellery. She reflected on her five decades in entertainment, saying that moving between music, film, television and theatre helped keep her work fresh. The two singers also collaborated on recordings, including a 2021 remake of “Does He Love You”.