The cast of the UK production of "9 to 5: The Musical" paused their performance on Tuesday, 25 August, to pay tribute to Dolly Parton following news of her death. Star Karla Tracey, who plays Doralee Rhodes, addressed the audience before the show began, informing many for the first time that the country music icon had died, prompting audible gasps. The tribute underscores Parton's deep connection to the production, which she originally wrote and produced, and reflects the wider outpouring of grief across the entertainment industry.

Parton died aged 80 following what her representative confirmed to People was a "brief battle with cancer". Tracey dedicated the evening's performance to her, thanking her for "the music, laughter, and joy she gave us", while original "9 to 5" film co-stars Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda also shared emotional tributes on social media. Parton had reportedly been developing a new musical featuring her hit songs, which was due to begin previews later this year at the St. James Theatre in New York City.