Lily Tomlin Honors Dolly Parton | The 16th Governors Awards
Hollywood, California — The 16th Governors Awards delivered one of its most emotional and heartfelt moments when legendary actress Lily Tomlin stepped onto the stage to honor her longtime friend and collaborator, Dolly Parton, as she received her Honorary Oscar. The pairing felt natural, iconic, and deeply moving — a tribute from one trailblazer to another.
The audience erupted into warm applause as Lily approached the microphone, her familiar wit shining through even before she began speaking. But beneath the humor, there was unmistakable affection. Their friendship — built over decades through films, public appearances, shared values, and mutual respect — filled the room with nostalgia and admiration.
Lily began by recalling their unforgettable work together in the classic film “9 to 5.” She spoke about the day she first met Dolly, remembering her as “a burst of sunshine wrapped in rhinestones,” with a voice so unmistakably warm it felt like home. She joked gently about Dolly’s astonishing ability to make everyone feel seen, loved, and included, no matter who they were or where they came from.
But Tomlin quickly turned to sincerity as she honored Dolly’s astonishing career — not just as a performer, but as a humanitarian who has given her heart to the world. She praised Dolly’s fearless honesty as a songwriter, her brilliance as a storyteller, and her lifelong dedication to lifting others through kindness, generosity, and grace.
“Dolly has always used her spotlight to light the way for others,” Lily said, her voice softening. “Whether through her music, her films, her philanthropy, or the millions of books she gave to children who needed them most — she has shown us what it means to live with purpose.”
Lily also highlighted Dolly’s Imagination Library, her support for education and disaster relief, and her unwavering commitment to helping communities in need. She acknowledged Dolly’s rare ability to bridge generations, cultures, and backgrounds with a smile, a melody, and a spirit that never dims.
The audience listened in silence, many visibly touched, as Lily concluded:
“Dolly Parton isn’t just a star. She’s a national treasure. And tonight, we honor not only her talent, but her heart — the biggest heart in show business.”
Moments later, Dolly stepped out to accept her Honorary Oscar, clearly moved by Lily’s tribute. The two shared an embrace that drew emotional applause from the entire room — a reminder of the magic they brought to screens together and the legacy they each continue to build.
The presentation felt less like a formal ceremony and more like a celebration between lifelong friends — a moment filled with warmth, admiration, and the shared history of two women who changed Hollywood in their own ways.
For many watching, Lily Tomlin’s tribute was one of the most beautiful highlights of the evening, honouring Dolly Parton not just as an icon, but as a light that continues to shine across generations.