Dolly Parton has opened up about her health as she prepares to celebrate her 80th birthday, with the country music legend insisting she has no plans to slow down.
The Grammy-winning icon, who turned 80 on Monday, recently dismissed concerns about her age in an interview with People, stressing that she still feels full of energy and motivation for what lies ahead.
“People say, ‘You’re turning 80.’ Well, so what? Look at everything I’ve done in those 80 years,” Parton said. “I feel like I’m just getting started.”
While acknowledging that health is ultimately the deciding factor, the singer behind the hit “9 to 5” reassured fans that she is doing well.
“I know it might sound crazy, but as long as my health holds out — and right now, it seems like I’m doing just fine — I’m going to keep going,” she added.
Earlier this month, Parton sparked concern after revealing she would not attend the Grand Ole Opry’s 80th anniversary concert, prompting renewed speculation about her well-being.
For months, the music legend has been the subject of alarming rumors, particularly after her sister Freida asked fans for prayers in October while Parton was dealing with an undisclosed illness.
At the time, Parton quickly put fans at ease by sharing a video in which she appeared energetic and upbeat, joking: “I’m not dead yet!”
