Sally Field struggled to hold back her emotions as she honored her longtime friend and Steel Magnolias co-star Dolly Parton during the 2026 Emmy Awards.
The actress took the stage during Monday night’s ceremony in Los Angeles and remembered Parton as much more than a beloved entertainer. She spoke about her kindness, humor, generosity and the lasting impact she had on so many people.
“We Just Lost One”
Field opened her tribute with a powerful message about the loss of Parton.
“If there are truly angels on Earth, then we just lost one: Dolly Parton,” she said.
The actress recalled working with Parton on the 1989 film Steel Magnolias. Field said she adored Dolly from the moment they met and never stopped loving her, even though the two eventually lived far apart.
Field also remembered Parton’s personality.
She described her as genuine, humble, supportive and incredibly funny. She also praised Parton’s work as a humanitarian and the difference she made in Tennessee and across the country.
Sally Field’s Emotional Goodbye
Near the end of her tribute, Field delivered a deeply personal message to her late friend.
She wished Dolly a final blessing and made it clear that her love for the country icon would never disappear.
“God bless you, Dolly Parton, my friend,” Field said, adding that she would love her forever.
The moment was especially touching because of their history together in Steel Magnolias, one of Parton’s most beloved film roles.
Reba McEntire Continued the Tribute
Field’s speech was followed by another emotional tribute from Reba McEntire.
Reba appeared in a white gown and performed Dolly’s 1983 song “Appalachian Memories.” Images from Parton’s life appeared behind her as she sang.
The performance became visibly emotional for Reba. At the end, she looked toward the audience and softly said:
“I love you, Dolly.”
Together, Field’s words and Reba’s performance created one of the most emotional tributes of the 78th Emmy Awards.
Dolly Parton’s Legacy
Dolly Parton died on August 25 at age 80 following a private battle with cancer.
Her career stretched across country music, television, film and philanthropy. She also built a lasting connection with television audiences through projects including Dolly Parton’s Christmas on the Square, for which she won an Emmy in 2021.
At the Emmys, however, the focus was not simply on her long list of achievements.
It was on the person her friends knew.
For Sally Field, Dolly was a beloved friend and a remarkable human being.
And for Reba McEntire, she was a friend whose absence is already deeply felt.
The two tributes gave viewers a deeply personal farewell to one of America’s most beloved entertainers.
