CNN has issued an apology to the family of Dolly Parton after mistakenly broadcasting a photograph of an impersonator during coverage of the country music icon's death.
The network aired an image of tribute artist Kelly Vohnn during a broadcast of Laura Coates Live following Parton's death at age 80 on Aug. 25, which occurred after a battle with cancer.
In an Aug. 27 statement to The New York Post, CNN said, "We regret the error and apologize to the Parton family." Parton's family has not publicly responded to the on-air mistake.
The photograph depicted Vohnn during a 2025 red carpet appearance for the film Song Sung Blue. Vohnn, 58, called the mix-up "quite embarrassing" in an interview with The New York Post.
"I was already heartbroken at losing Dolly because of how much she has given to me as a woman and an artist," Vohnn told the outlet. "But then to see these images of me on screen was just weird."
Vohnn added that she received numerous text messages from friends after her image appeared on CNN. "I couldn't believe it," she said, emphasizing her deep respect for Parton's career.
"To be clear, I have never represented myself as being Dolly ever in my life. I have always been known as a tribute act for her and many other stars," Vohnn said. "I felt so sorry and apologetic for Dolly, because over her career there are so many wonderful images and moments that they could have chosen from."
Vohnn is among millions inspired by the Steel Magnolias star, whose death on Aug. 25 prompted tributes from across the entertainment world.
Family and Friends Share Personal Remembrances
Parton's godmother Miley Cyrus shared a moving tribute on Instagram on Aug. 26, reflecting on their close bond. The "Malibu" singer wrote that Parton would "want me to feel it, write a song about it, and then continue on and be strong."
"The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share," Cyrus wrote. "Our most sacred moments were private, and they'll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts." Cyrus added that one of their final conversations focused on "music and metamorphosis."
Parton's younger sister Stella Parton detailed their routine in a social media tribute, writing that every Tuesday morning before sunrise they drank coffee together over the phone. "Being little farm girls we've continued to be early risers," Stella wrote, quoting Dolly as saying, "shoot Tedda, we get more work done before the sun comes up than most folks do all day long!"
Country singer Billy Ray Cyrus recalled his longtime friendship with the "Love Is Like a Butterfly" performer on Instagram. Cyrus shared that Parton recently sent him a message telling him she loved him with her whole heart, adding, "I will always love her in the same way.... with my whole heart.. and I always will."
Wynonna Judd shared how Parton supported her following the death of her mother Naomi Judd by suicide in April 2022. "When Mom passed, Dolly showed up for me in a way I'll never forget," Judd wrote on Instagram. Calling Parton family and light, Judd concluded, "From one mountain woman to another, I will always love you."
Television Hosts and Hollywood Stars Pay Tribute
Late Night host Seth Meyers remembered Parton's 2019 guest appearance in an Instagram post. Meyers recalled telling her backstage that his three-year-old son loved "Jolene," prompting Parton to insist on singing the song to him over FaceTime. Meyers also recounted Parton filming a promo for an NBC Christmas special on a stool in a short skirt, telling the audience, "I gotta be careful or else I'm gonna show y'all my box office!"
Meyers praised the former Saturday Night Live cast member's humor as "too dirty for church, too clean for the bar."
I Dream of Jeannie star Barbara Eden wrote on X that Parton left a void in Americana, recalling meeting her at the Country Music Awards. Eden wrote that Parton's heart was even larger than her presence, adding, "you're singing amongst the angels, assuredly giving the host of Heaven a run for their money."
Dancer Derek Hough detailed on Instagram sharing the stage with Parton in 2007 on Dancing With the Stars alongside Mark Ballas and Cheryl Burke for a performance of "9 to 5" and "Better Get to Livin'." Hough called Parton an absolute icon and a true legend.
Former Wheel of Fortune host Pat Sajak shared on X that after being hired by KNBC in Los Angeles, he was moved from an overbooked coach section to first class on a flight from Nashville, where Parton was his seatmate. "Sure was a nice flight," Sajak wrote.
Brooke Shields, who made guest appearances on Hannah Montana alongside Parton, wrote on Instagram that "the equilibrium of the earth feels off." American Idol host Ryan Seacrest noted Parton's generosity toward Seacrest Studios and young patients, while Overboard actress Goldie Hawn posted a throwback photo recalling Parton as a joyful, celestial being.
The Princess Diaries star Anne Hathaway urged fans on Instagram to follow in Parton's "bedazzled footsteps," while Oprah Winfrey recalled wearing Bob Mackie gowns with Parton on her television show Dolly.
Jane Fonda, Parton's co-star in the movie 9 to 5, shared a message on social media highlighting Parton's legacy and her support for LGBTQ+ fans. "To her gay and trans fans, I want you to know that she loved you," Fonda wrote, advising fans to celebrate Parton's spirit and watch her appearance as an angel in the final episode of Grace and Frankie.
Musicians Across Genres Celebrate Country Legend
Country artist Kelsea Ballerini, who narrated part of Parton's 2022 audiobook Run, Rose, Run, wrote on Instagram, "Thank you for every ounce of magic and butterflies, acceptance and joy, heart and music you brought to this world."
Pop singer Katy Perry praised Parton on Instagram as an inspiration who defied stereotypes, writing, "She proved that big boobs, big brains, and a big voice can all exist in one tiny body!" Perry added that Parton's star will shine forever and suggested she was already remodeling heaven's pearly gates with rhinestones.
Rolling Stones singer Mick Jagger called Parton a wonderful songwriter on X, writing that she brought so many people together. Daryl Hall of Hall & Oates expressed sorrow on X, calling her playing ability with long fingernails an amazing mystery.
Musical ensemble The Muppets described Parton on Instagram as the ultimate singer, songwriter, actress, performer, and philanthropist. Indie singer Maggie Rogers recalled performing with Parton at Newport, writing on Instagram that she felt awe-struck during the set. Canadian rock band Nickelback described Parton on X as a genuinely good human being.
Billy Joel shared a family tribute on Instagram, writing that Parton transcended time and noting that he was fortunate to have had his music covered by her. Joel also highlighted her visits to Dollywood, her philanthropic work, and her early efforts acknowledging endometriosis.
Singers Chloe Bailey, Sia, and Jimmy Buffett honored Parton on X, with Buffett noting that while some artists are admired, "there is Dolly Parton." Flavor Flav praised Parton on X for championing children, education, and human goodness.
Country singer Carly Pearce shared on X that her family relocated when she was 15 so she could perform in Dollywood's Country Crossroads show, writing, "Heaven got a whole lot sassier, funnier, and brighter today." Singer Maren Morris posted an Instagram video performing alongside Parton.
Taylor Swift issued a statement to E! News calling Parton "truly the gift that kept on giving." Swift praised Parton for providing millions of books to children globally and for walking tightropes "so that young girls like me could grow up dreaming of joining the circus too."
Beyoncé posted a tribute on her website on Aug. 25, calling Parton a barometer and North Star. Expressing gratitude for their collaboration on "Jolene" for her album Cowboy Carter, Beyoncé wrote, "You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art."
