Reba McEntire Honors Friendship With Late Dolly Parton
Reba McEntire appeared on The Jennifer Hudson Show to discuss her long-standing friendship with the late country music icon.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Country
Reba McEntire paid tribute to her longtime friend Dolly Parton during an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show. Parton died on August 25 following a battle with cancer at age 80.
Why it matters
The tribute highlights the deep personal and professional connections shared by two of country music's most influential artists. McEntire continues to celebrate Parton's legacy following the icon's passing.
Dolly Parton reached age 80 before her death, while Reba McEntire is currently 71 years old. The song Appalachian Memories, which McEntire recently performed, was originally released in 1983.
The players
Reba McEntire
She is a veteran country music singer and actress who has maintained a long career in both music and television.
Dolly Parton
She was a globally recognized country music legend and songwriter known for a decades-long career in entertainment.
The Jennifer Hudson Show
This is a nationally syndicated television talk show hosted by the award-winning singer and actress Jennifer Hudson.
The details
McEntire shared memories of Parton's professional conduct and personality during the October interview. The pair first established their relationship at the Grand Ole Opry in 1977 and later collaborated on screen when Parton guest-starred on the sitcom Reba in 2005.
Timeline
September 17, 1977: Reba McEntire and Dolly Parton first met at the Grand Ole Opry.
2005: Dolly Parton appeared as a guest on the television sitcom Reba.
August 25, 2026: Dolly Parton died after a brief battle with cancer at age 80.
September 14, 2026: Reba McEntire performed the song Appalachian Memories at the Emmy Awards.
October 21, 2026: Reba McEntire appeared on The Jennifer Hudson Show.
Industry Dynamics
McEntire's public reflections mirror the broader Hollywood tradition of using talk show appearances to honor the legacies of departed industry titans. This participation aligns with her upcoming role in the special CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton.
Fans can view McEntire's recent television appearance through various broadcast segments on The Jennifer Hudson Show. Viewers interested in the tribute can prepare to watch the upcoming celebration of Parton's life on ABC and Disney+.
The takeaway
Honoring artistic mentors through public testimonials helps preserve the cultural history of country music for new generations. McEntire's ongoing tributes demonstrate how long-term professional relationships continue to shape current television programming.
What happens next
Reba McEntire is scheduled to participate in the upcoming televised event titled CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton, which will air on ABC and Disney+.
Further reading
For more on the latest tributes and career updates, visit the Country section.
