Dolly Parton Opens Up About Career Struggles After Husband Carl Dean’s Death: ‘I Can’t Do It Right Now’
Dolly Parton is still mourning the loss of her beloved husband, Carl Dean, who passed away in March at the age of 82 after 60 years of marriage. The country music icon, known for her iconic hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You,” has been candid about the challenges she is facing in the aftermath of his death.
Appearing on Wednesday’s episode of Khloé in Wonder Land, Parton shared a deeply personal update about her career, revealing that her grief has made it difficult for her to return to her passion for music. Although she has always been a prolific songwriter, Parton confessed that her creative process has been stunted since her husband’s passing.
“My husband passed away three months ago… Several things I’ve wanted to start, but I can’t do it,” Parton admitted. “I will later, but I’m just coming up with such wonderful, beautiful ideas. But I think I won’t finish it.”
Parton, who is known for her unwavering positive spirit, clarified that while she is struggling to focus on her songwriting, she is not giving up on her music altogether. “I can’t do it right now because I’ve got so many other things that I can’t afford the luxury of getting that emotional right now,” she explained. While the singer has certainly faced personal challenges, she assured fans that her love for music remains strong, even if her creative output is currently on hold.
Despite these emotional hurdles, Parton remains hopeful for the future. “There are times like that, things like that that will start here a little bit, but I’ll write something else, though, if it comes,” she said, signaling that she is not ready to retire from music just yet.
For now, Parton is prioritizing self-care and healing as she processes the immense grief of losing her husband, whom she described as a deeply private and supportive partner throughout their long marriage. In the meantime, fans continue to rally behind the beloved star, sending their love and support as she navigates this difficult period.
Parton, who has spent decades entertaining millions of fans worldwide, expressed that she is putting her music “all on hold” for now but is hopeful for the future. With her iconic legacy and continued commitment to her art, it’s clear that Dolly Parton’s journey is far from over.