Introduction:
Just weeks after the death of her godmother Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus has opened up about their final conversation—and the memory reveals a remarkably ordinary, intimate side of one of country music’s biggest icons.
Speaking with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe in September, Cyrus recalled that her last conversation with Parton was not about saying goodbye. It was about music. More specifically, it was about Cyrus’ new album, Bass Persuades. The conversation was part of a tradition the two had shared for years: whenever Cyrus had a new record pressed on vinyl, Parton was the first person she would send it to. Even after Parton’s death, Cyrus said she still intended to send her the vinyl because that was simply what she had always done.
That small detail makes their final exchange especially poignant. There was no dramatic farewell—just a goddaughter talking to her mentor about a new record.
Cyrus also reflected on what made their relationship so meaningful. Although Parton was known for her glamorous appearance, elaborate wigs and larger-than-life stage persona, Cyrus described the woman behind that image as deeply authentic. Their differences, she explained, were part of what made their bond work.
For Cyrus, Parton was much more than a famous godmother. She was someone she could call when she did not know what to do. Cyrus has described Parton’s advice as a guiding force throughout her own complicated journey through childhood fame, adulthood and life under constant public scrutiny.
Their relationship also produced some unforgettable musical moments. The two performed together several times, including a memorable rendition of “I Will Always Love You.” During their 2023 New Year’s Eve performance, Parton and Cyrus shared the stage for a powerful medley that included Parton’s iconic song. Looking back now, Cyrus has connected the emotion she felt during such performances with an awareness that the people who guide us will not always be there.
While Cyrus was remembering Parton through music and personal memories, a very different story was developing around Parton’s estate.
Bryan Seaver, Parton’s nephew and longtime head of security, announced her death in a video after saying she had asked him years earlier to deliver the news. Weeks later, however, he was removed from his security role, and She’s Alive, the company overseeing Parton’s business interests, filed a lawsuit accusing Seaver of threatening and intimidating conduct. A Tennessee judge subsequently granted a temporary restraining order against Seaver and his security company. Seaver has denied threatening anyone and disputes the estate’s characterization of his private messages. The legal dispute remains unresolved.
The contrast is striking: one story is about the personal legacy Parton left with Miley—the advice, music and memories that cannot be inherited through a legal document. The other concerns the complicated business legacy surrounding her enormous career.
And perhaps that is what makes Cyrus’ story resonate most.
Dolly Parton may no longer be at the other end of the phone, but the lessons she gave Miley remain. The vinyl may still arrive. The songs will still be sung. And the woman who helped generations of artists find their own way continues to influence them—even after the conversation has ended.