The passing of Dolly Parton yesterday, Tuesday, August 25, 2026, has shaken not only the music world but the entire world, which is united in grief over the loss of an icon of country music—and of the entertainment world in general. Many friends and colleagues have paid tribute to her generosity, sense of humor, talent, and ability to bring people together—including Sabrina Carpenter, Billy Ray Cyrus, Eminem, and Jane Fonda. These are just a few of the figures who wanted to honor a universally recognized legend, but above all, the person who inspired so many artists.
The outpouring of grief is, of course, unanimous across the United States of America. Following the announcement of her death—made official on her Instagram profile by her grandson—U.S. President Donald Trump announced that flags across the country will be flown at half-mast for one week. This was a fitting gesture recognized by the government—but not only by it. The Empire State Building in New York also promptly paid its final respects to Dolly, honoring her from the very building that symbolizes the Big Apple.
“Tonight, the lights on the Empire State Building will glow a sparkling pink at 9:25 p.m. in honor of the late Dolly Parton. Dolly was a global cultural icon whose seven-decade career touched generations of fans. Beyond the world of entertainment, Dolly leaves behind a significant philanthropic legacy through the Dollywood Foundation and the Imagination Library, which has provided hundreds of millions of books to children around the world. At 9:25 p.m. tonight, we celebrate Dolly and her legacy.” This is the text of the post published on Empire’s Instagram profile, which has been colored pink in honor of Dolly. A woman, artist, professional, and philanthropist whose life and career were often linked to that color—a staple of her on-stage outfits and beyond.
[📸 Getty Images]
