Ricky Schroder Faces Backlash Over Dolly Parton Tribute

Actor Ricky Schroder has sparked outrage among fans after posting a controversial tribute taking a swipe at Dolly Parton's political views just hours after the country music legend died on Tuesday at the age of 80.

The 56-year-old actor shared a photo on Instagram featuring himself alongside the singer, accompanied by a caption expressing disagreement with her advocacy for transgender rights and COVID-19 vaccines. Schroder wrote: "I didnt agree with her advocating for Transgender & Covid Vaccine support…but Loved her anyway. Thank you for choosing me Dolly to be your Movie Daddy."

Schroder previously starred alongside Parton as her father, Robert Lee Patton, in two television biographical films: Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors in 2015 and Dolly Parton's Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love in 2016.

His social media remembrance post quickly drew severe criticism from social media users and fellow public figures who condemned the timing and tone of the message as deeply insensitive. Journalist Katie Couric responded to the post by simply writing "ick," while singer Boy George commented: "Oh shut up!"

The Daily Mail reached out to representatives for Schroder regarding the public reaction, but has yet to hear back. Amid the growing backlash, Schroder escalated his comments by posting a video clip to his Instagram Stories showing Parton expressing her support for the COVID-19 vaccine. Underneath the clip, he added: "I warned Dolly to not support the Experiment. Wished she listened [sad face emoji]."

Fan Backlash and Social Media Criticism

Followers on Instagram and Threads swiftly condemned Schroder for using the icon's passing to promote his own political stance. One commenter wrote: "Ricky, she just died. You could have honored her without using her death to remind everyone that you disapproved of her supporting trans people and vaccines. What a s****y, self-centered tribute."

Lioness actor Jay Huguley criticized the wording of the post, writing: "“I loved her anyway” what a strange tribute. Good Lord." Another fan echoed the sentiment, stating: "Oh ick. That’s just foul," while another remarked: "What a backhanded tribute. Yuck."

Other users questioned why Schroder felt compelled to air his grievances on the day of her death. Comments included: "Why bring up what you didn't like?" and "Wow… you should have said nothing." Another fan stated: "Imagine being the first (and probably only) person in the whole world to post something negative about Dolly. NOT COOL."

Critics continued to argue that the actor should have omitted his personal political views entirely. One user noted: "He could have left the "I didn't agree with...' part out. There was no need for it," while another wrote: "No need to even post that.." A third commenter added: "Don't make it about you or politics. It's not a tribute but a statement about you. Why bother?" Another asked: "But what’s the point bringing up things that you didn’t agree on? Does it make you feel better?"

The criticism intensified as commentators accused Schroder of distracting from Parton's legacy. One person commented: "She lived her life being a light and not talking politics yet you have do it first thing in a post the day she passes?" Another described the message as a "tone deaf tribute," noting: "Dolly advocated for love and not judging anyone." Further responses included: "What a tacky post. Shame on you," and "Why are some celebrities making their “tributes” to Dolly about them??? Do better or don’t do it at all!!"

Another user urged Schroder to refrain from further comments, writing: "Honestly dude, please just sit down and be quiet. Honor her or don't. This is weird." Another comment accused him of disrespect, stating: "Way to show disrespect schroder. You just had to make it about you you couldnt just offer your sympathies. You had to tell everybody what we already know. That you're a trumper and a has been actor."

Dolly Parton's Advocacy and Public Stances

Schroder was seemingly targeting Parton's outspoken support for the LGBTQIA+ community, including her opposition to anti-transgender legislation. A devout Christian, Parton addressed her support for her queer fanbase during a 2014 interview with Billboard, stating: "If people want to pass judgment, they're already sinning. The sin of judging is just as bad as any other sin they might say somebody else is committing. I try to love everybody."

In 2016, when North Carolina's contentious anti-transgender "bathroom bill" sparked national outrage, Parton addressed the controversy with her signature compassion. Speaking to CNN, she said: "I think everybody should be treated with respect," adding, "I hope that everybody gets a chance to be who and what they are."

The country icon also played a pivotal role in battling COVID-19, donating $1 million to Vanderbilt University Medical Center to help fund the research behind the Moderna vaccine.

Details Surrounding the Death of Country Legend

Parton's death shocked the world and came after months of health woes that saw her pull out of a string of public appearances, fueling fan fears for her wellbeing. Those close to the singer said she had become increasingly reclusive and secretive about her own ill health in recent months.

On Tuesday, Parton's representatives revealed she died following a "brief battle with cancer" in a statement to People, though they did not disclose what type of cancer it was. The star's death was first confirmed Tuesday in an Instagram video posted by her nephew Bryan Seaver, who also acted as her head of security.

She died Tuesday morning after being hospitalized Friday at Nashville's Vanderbilt University Medical Center with autoimmune and kidney problems, according to TMZ. Family insiders indicated that a private service for close friends and relations will be held in Nashville within the next few days.

Fellow stars paid tribute following the news, including Hillary Clinton, Sarah Jessica Parker, Reba McEntire, Maren Morris, Kacey Musgraves, Khloe Kardashian and more. President Donald Trump also paid tribute to Parton and ordered American flags lowered nationwide for one week in her honor.

A Six-Decade Legacy in Music

Parton, often referred to as the Queen of Country, enjoyed an illustrious music career that spanned an incredible six decades. Her famous hits include Jolene, 9 to 5, and I Will Always Love You.