CMA Announces Major Live TV Tribute to Dolly Parton
The Country Music Association is preparing a major television tribute to Dolly Parton, giving fans another chance to celebrate the life and legacy of one of country music’s most beloved stars.
The two-hour special, titled “CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton,” will air live in October and will bring together music, memories and stories celebrating Parton’s extraordinary career.
A Two-Hour Celebration of Dolly Parton
According to the CMA, the special will celebrate Dolly as an artist, songwriter, entertainer, humanitarian and entrepreneur.
The program will feature live performances, archival footage and personal stories looking back at the many chapters of Dolly’s career.
The event will be filmed live at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville. Robert Deaton will serve as executive producer.
The lineup of performers has not yet been announced.
That leaves plenty of anticipation among country fans, especially after the emotional tributes Dolly has already received from artists and friends following her death.
CMA Calls It a Responsibility to Honor Dolly
CMA CEO Sarah Trahern said the organization has a special responsibility to honor Parton’s legacy.
She explained that the tribute is intended as a way to thank Dolly on behalf of the artists, industry members and fans who found something meaningful in her music.
Robert Deaton also shared his thoughts on the special, saying that Dolly gave country music its heart and expressing his hope that the event will properly honor her story, music and the people who love her.
Part of the Proceeds Will Support Dolly’s Imagination Library
The tribute will also continue one of Dolly’s most important legacies.
A portion of the proceeds from the event will be donated to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the children’s literacy program founded by Parton.
The organization has become one of the most recognizable parts of Dolly’s philanthropic work, providing free books to young children.
The decision to support the Imagination Library makes the television special more than simply a celebration of Dolly’s music. It also helps continue work that was central to her life.
When and Where to Watch
The special will air live on ABC and Disney+ on October 21, 2026, from 8–10 p.m. CST.
For viewers who cannot watch it live, the program will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day.
The performer lineup has not yet been revealed, meaning fans will have to wait to find out which country stars will take the stage.
Another Major Tribute to Dolly
The CMA special comes after several emotional tributes to Parton.
At the 2026 Emmy Awards, Sally Field remembered her Steel Magnolias co-star in an emotional speech, calling Dolly an angel on Earth. Reba McEntire then performed Parton’s “Appalachian Memories” during the ceremony.
The Grand Ole Opry also dedicated a special August 29 show to Dolly shortly after her death, featuring artists including Carly Pearce, Kathy Mattea, T. Graham Brown, Molly Tuttle and Dan Tyminski.
Now, the CMA is preparing what could become one of the biggest television celebrations of Dolly’s life.
For country music fans, October 21 will be another opportunity to hear her songs, remember her remarkable career and celebrate the legacy she left behind.
