On a sunny spring afternoon at Dollywood, as Dolly Parton waved warmly from her parade float, the crowd erupted in cheers and applause. The country music icon’s radiant smile seemed to light up the Tennessee theme park. Yet beneath that familiar grin lay a heart heavy with recent loss—a private sorrow the 78-year-old revealed in a heartfelt interview on TODAY this May 2.

Learning to Live Without Carl

Parton and her husband, Carl Dean, shared nearly six decades together after meeting when she was just 18. His sudden passing in early March left an immense void in her life. “I get very emotional when people bring it up,” Parton admitted, tears welling in her eyes as host Savannah Guthrie gently inquired about how she was coping. “We were together 60 years. I’ve loved him since I was 18 years old, and it’s a big adjustment just trying to change patterns and habits.”

Despite the deep grief, Parton has thrown herself into work, which she described as “the best thing that could happen to me.” Still, she confessed, “I’ll always miss him, of course, and I’ll always love him.”

A Viral Moment, An Unexpected Release

During the interview, TODAY correspondent Craig Melvin surprised Parton with a viral video capturing a young fan’s astonished joy upon seeing her enter the Spirit of America Parade. Parton laughed at the child’s wide-eyed reaction, but the moment also brought up raw emotions.

“Right after the parade,” she shared, “I was still dealing with Carl’s death. I got very emotional that day after the parade … I just got in the van and boo hoo’d for the longest time, just feeling all that love and emotion.”

Though surrounded by fans chanting her name, Parton allowed herself a private moment of release—crying alone in the back of her tour vehicle, away from the spotlight.

A Love Never Lost

When announcing Dean’s passing on Instagram in March, Parton paid tribute to his quiet devotion and steadfast presence in her life. She revealed that he would be laid to rest in a private ceremony and reflected, “Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years.”

Dean, survived by siblings Sandra and Donnie, was more than a husband to Parton—he was her unwavering rock through the dizzying highs of stardom and the inevitable lows of life.

Carrying On With Strength and Grace

Now, as Parton balances performances, philanthropic work, and the bustling demands of Dollywood, she carries Carl’s memory with her in every wave to fans and every autograph signed. On TODAY, she said, “I’ll do fine. I’m very involved in my work,” recognizing that staying busy helps her keep moving forward.

The Strength in Vulnerability

Dolly Parton’s openness about her grief serves as a powerful reminder that even legends—whose songs have brought joy to millions—are not immune to loss. By sharing the tears she sheds in private, she humanizes the experience of mourning, reminding fans that vulnerability can coexist with resilience.

As visitors continue to flock to Dollywood, many will remember the viral clip of Dolly’s radiant parade entrance. But for Parton, the true victory was in allowing herself to feel deeply and begin healing once the crowds faded away.

In her own words, while parting with Carl has changed the patterns of her life, it can never sever the unbreakable bond they shared. In that quiet defiance, Dolly’s tears stand as a testament to her enduring spirit—one that continues to inspire and uplift.