Dollywood will stay open because Dolly Parton asked it to

'The show must go on'

The park, which sits in Pigeon Forge and has become one of Parton’s most recognisable creations, said it would continue operating as she would have wanted.

In a statement, Dollywood said Parton was fond of reminding people that “the show must go on”, adding that the park would open as normal on Wednesday.

Eugene Naughton, president of Dollywood Parks & Resorts, reflected on the singer’s contribution to the attraction, saying he considered it the greatest privilege of his career to have helped bring her vision for Dollywood to life.

“Dolly’s heart was as vast as the mountains she cherished, and her compassion knew no bounds. She inspired generations to dream boldly and love deeply. While we grieve her loss, we are honored and committed to carry her light forward.”

— Eugene Naughton, the President of Dollywood Parks & Resort

Dollywood has come a very long way

The theme park is now a huge attraction, but its beginnings were much more modest. Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment jointly own Dollywood, with Herschend taking over the original Goldrush Junction attraction in 1977. At the time, it was little more than a five-mile train ride.

Today, the site covers 165 acres, with an additional 35-acre water park and two resort hotels. It has grown into one of Tennessee’s major tourist attractions, offering more than 50 rides and attractions, including the Dolly Parton Stampede.

Parton’s legacy lives on

Parton died aged 80 after a short battle with cancer, with the news announced in a moving video message by her nephew Bryan Seaver. Her representatives later confirmed that her funeral would be a private affair attended by immediate family.

Rather than asking fans to attend or send flowers, Parton’s family encouraged people wanting to pay tribute to donate to Imagination Library, the children's literacy initiative she established.

The news prompted an immediate outpouring of tributes for one of country music’s most recognisable figures, whose career produced some of the most enduring songs in popular music, including “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You”.