Viewers Praise Dolly Parton’s Late Late Show Interview Despite Delay in Appearance

The Late Late Show has long been a stage for Ireland’s love affair with country music, and one recent episode brought that devotion to life with a star-studded tribute. From Daniel O’Donnell and Nathan Carter to Irish country stalwarts Philomena Begley and Sandy Kelly, the program celebrated both homegrown talent and international icons. But the night’s highlight, as many viewers made clear, was the long-awaited interview with Dolly Parton — even if audiences had to wait longer than they hoped to see her.

The episode opened with a lively medley of classic country and western hits, featuring performances from Irish stars like Úna Healy. Begley and Kelly spoke candidly about the frustrations of COVID-19 lockdowns and their impact on live music, offering an emotional reminder of why music remains so vital. But social media users watching at home had their attention fixed firmly on one name: Dolly.

After being teased with archival footage of Parton singing at Páidí Ó Sé’s Pub in Kerry, anticipation grew rapidly. By the time host Ryan Tubridy finally introduced the “Jolene” singer, social media was alight with impatient commentary. “Bloody hell bring on Dolly Parton already,” one user wrote, while another pleaded: “Please let Dolly be on soon.” The excitement reflected just how significant Parton’s presence was — she was the biggest name on the bill, and viewers were eager for every word.

When she finally appeared, the wait proved worthwhile. Parton, speaking from Tennessee, gave an insightful and heartfelt interview that touched on her family roots, her songwriting, and her deep affection for Irish audiences. She explained why her music often resonates particularly strongly with Irish fans: “They know what it’s like to live in hardship.” Her candor and warmth immediately drew praise. One line in particular — “I look fake, but everything inside me is real” — struck a chord with viewers, widely shared online as a testament to her authenticity.

Fans took to social media to share how much Parton’s music had shaped their lives. One viewer wrote: “Fallen in love with Dolly Parton all over again! She’s got me through exams, knockbacks, successes, setbacks, pregnancies, bereavement, divorce, starting again and single parenting.” Such testimonies highlighted why Parton’s songs continue to connect with audiences across generations and circumstances.

Beyond the personal reflections, the interview also underscored Parton’s broader impact as a philanthropist and advocate. Viewers were reminded of her significant donation to COVID-19 vaccine research and her vocal support for racial equality through the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020. Tubridy also asked about her literacy project, the Imagination Library, which provides free books to children worldwide — a program Parton described with pride as one of her greatest legacies.

Her cultural influence even extended into politics. Fine Gael Minister for Special Education Josepha Madigan praised Parton’s 1980 hit “Nine to Five” as groundbreaking, noting that it addressed equal pay for women long before it became a mainstream debate.

By the end of the interview, even those who had grown restless waiting for her appearance agreed it had been worth it. “Just watched Dolly Parton on RTE Late Late Show, such a lovely person,” one viewer commented. “Great songwriter who writes from the heart. Great interview. Pure energy.”

Parton’s enduring appeal lies in her rare ability to bridge the gap between star and human being. To many, she is larger than life — a legend with countless hits, awards, and business ventures. Yet, as the Late Late Show reminded audiences, her greatest gift is her authenticity: the sense that behind the rhinestones and sharp wit is someone who knows hardship, faith, and resilience just as deeply as her fans do.

Even with the delayed introduction, Dolly Parton proved once again why she remains a global treasure. She doesn’t just sing songs; she lives them — and in doing so, she gives her fans permission to carry them through every chapter of their own lives.