Star-Studded Lineup Announced for Dolly Parton Tribute
The Country Music Association and ABC have revealed the impressive lineup of artists who will take the stage for “CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton.”
The two-hour live television tribute to Dolly Parton will feature performances from Ashley McBryde, Béla Fleck, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, Carrie Underwood, Darius Rucker, Ella Langley, Kelsea Ballerini, Kristen Bell, Kristin Chenoweth, Lady A, Lainey Wilson, Little Big Town, Lukas Nelson, Molly Tuttle, Reba McEntire, Ricky Skaggs, Sierra Hull, Vince Gill and Zac Brown.
Amy Grant and Kimberly Williams-Paisley will also appear as special guests.
The announcement was revealed on ABC’s “Good Morning America.” A Belmont University student ensemble will also participate in one of the performances, highlighting the university’s ongoing “Dolly U” programming. The initiative gives students an opportunity to learn from Parton’s career, artistry and entrepreneurial legacy.
Additional surprise tributes from friends across the entertainment world will also be included throughout the special.
When and Where to Watch the Dolly Parton Tribute
“CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton” will air live Wednesday, October 21, from 9 to 11 p.m. EDT on ABC and Disney+ in the U.S. and internationally.
The special will be available the following day on Hulu.
The event will be filmed in front of a live audience at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville.
Robert Deaton serves as the project’s executive producer.
Celebrating Dolly Parton’s Influence Across Generations
The lineup brings together artists from multiple generations and musical backgrounds, including fellow Country Music Hall of Fame members, current country stars and acclaimed performers from bluegrass, Broadway and beyond.
Together, the performers will highlight the broad influence of Parton while celebrating the different stages of her career.
Proceeds Will Benefit Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
CMA and Belmont University will make a donation from proceeds from the special to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
The organization has provided millions of children with free books each month and works to inspire a lifelong love of reading. Disney is also supporting Imagination Library as part of its continued mission to inspire children to imagine their possibilities.
Fans can learn more about Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library or make their own donation through the official donation page.