Dolly Parton has always been a staunch advocate for her faith, often speaking candidly about her spiritual beliefs and how they guide her life and career. In a new reveal of previously unpublished diary entries, we get a glimpse into just how seriously she takes her convictions, especially when it comes to the darker forces in the world. The entries, shared by Lawrence Grobel, a longtime friend and interviewer, reflect an intriguing moment from 1981 when Grobel was contemplating whether to interview notorious serial killer Charles Manson. His conversation with Parton on the matter reveals just how deeply she felt about the risks of engaging with such negative energy.
In the diary entries, Grobel recalls asking Parton for her thoughts on interviewing Manson, a figure infamous for his role in the murders of seven people in the late 1960s. Parton’s response was filled with concern and a strong warning: “I think he’d steal your soul. I can’t even look at a picture of him.” She went on to explain that the encounter would have a profound, and potentially harmful, impact on anyone who dared to get too close to him. She shared her fears, saying that just one minute in Manson’s presence could destroy the purity and goodness within him. Parton described the darkness surrounding Manson as a force to be avoided at all costs, one that could change someone so deeply that they might not even recognize themselves afterward.
Parton’s warning came from a place of deep spirituality. Her belief that “spirits work” in powerful ways led her to advise Grobel against the interview. She emphasized the importance of protecting oneself from darkness, suggesting that exposing oneself to such negativity could have unintended consequences, not only on a personal level but also on a spiritual one. As Parton put it, “You’d have to be brave to deal with him, and I know you are, but it’s something you don’t tempt God with.” Her words effectively swayed Grobel’s decision, and he ultimately declined to interview Manson, citing Parton’s wisdom as a key factor in his choice. In his diary, Grobel humorously acknowledged, “No candy if I play with the devil,” reflecting on how Parton’s insight guided him to avoid a dangerous path.
This story highlights Parton’s unwavering belief in the power of spirituality and her deep connection to her faith. Her concerns about Manson were not just about his criminal acts but also about the darker forces he seemed to embody. It’s clear that for Parton, her faith is not merely a personal belief but a guiding force that shapes her actions and decisions, both on and off the stage.
Her stance on spirituality and faith is one that she has always been open about, despite knowing it may not be universally accepted. In a 2023 interview with Fox News Digital, Parton explained how her faith impacts everything she does. She said, “I do believe that, through God, all things are possible,” and that she asks for divine guidance to keep the right people in her life and remove the wrong ones. Her faith, she believes, is what sustains her creative energy and keeps her productive, even after decades in the spotlight.
Dolly Parton’s conversation with Grobel about Charles Manson underscores the seriousness with which she views the battle between light and dark forces. It also sheds light on her commitment to using her platform for good, sharing her beliefs and spiritual energy with others. Parton has always said that if her faith can “shine through” her and positively impact others, then that’s enough for her. She’s not telling anyone what to believe, but rather sharing what has worked for her, as she did in a recent appearance on Khloé Kardashian’s “Khloe in Wonder Land” podcast. She explained that while people might advise her to stop speaking about her faith, she firmly believes it’s an integral part of who she is and her creative process.
Dolly Parton’s deep spiritual convictions continue to guide her in all aspects of her life, from her musical career to her personal decisions. Her conversations about faith, particularly the one with Grobel about Manson, reveal the strength of her beliefs and her desire to help others navigate the complexities of the world. Whether she’s performing on stage or sharing her wisdom in private conversations, Parton remains a powerful force for positivity and light in a world that often feels overshadowed by darkness.