Dolly Parton working with avatar performance companies amid ongoing ‘health issues’

Dolly Parton has revealed she’s in talks with companies that create “avatar performances” as she continues to deal with health issues.

Speaking with People, Parton said the project is still in the “early stages of development” and did not go into detail about what to expect.

Earlier this year, the country singer cancelled her Las Vegas residency after initially postponing her six-date run in December 2025, citing “health challenges”.

“I am dealing with some health issues” – Dolly Parton gives health update

Thank you for standing by me and showing me so much love and support over the past year. I’ve still got some healing to do, but I am on my way! See you soon. 💖 🦋 pic.twitter.com/HXpJqTUJXZ

— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) May 4, 2026

Taking to social media in May, Parton said she was still recovering from procedures she announced late last year, citing medication that had caused dizzy spells.

In her new interview, Parton said: “I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn’t pay attention to when I was watching over Carl,” referring to her late husband, Carl Thomas Dean, who died in March 2025.

Despite her health challenges, Parton has continued to work on a number of projects outside of performing and has said she does not plan to retire anytime soon.

Parton continues to work on upcoming projects

Parton revealed that she has been working on her upcoming Broadway musical, Dolly: A True Original Musical.

Set to explore Parton’s journey from her childhood in East Tennessee to the dazzling lights and rhinestones of Hollywood, audiences can expect to hear some of her greatest hits.

As well as her stage show, Parton revealed plans for a new museum named the Life of Many Colours Museum, which she describes as the largest exhibition dedicated to her life.

The museum will open in Nashville as part of Parton’s new SongTeller Hotel, which is scheduled to welcome guests in September 2026.

Dollywood theme park in-person cancellation

Parton was set to appear at her Dollywood theme park earlier this month to unveil a new ride, but was advised by her doctor not to travel.

Instead, she appeared virtually via a video recorded at her home in Nashville, admitting: “I get a little dizzy and I get dehydrated. And I’m dehydrated.”

Despite ongoing public concern and numerous in-person cancellations, Parton gave a positive health update, saying: “All is going well on the medical end of things.”

Her planned avatar performance follows the success of ABBA Voyage, a virtual concert featuring digital avatars of the four members of ABBA.