Dolly Parton admits 'I just need a little time' in new health update on Instagram

Dolly Parton has been forced to cancel several of her winter concerts due to health concerns. The 79-year-old star took to social media to break the news, which will undoubtedly affect many of her fans.

She revealed that her health is being prioritised, and as a result, she won't be able to perform at her scheduled Las Vegas residency this winter. In a heartfelt Instagram post to her 7.9 million followers, the country singer announced: "I want the fans and public to hear directly from me that, unfortunately, I will need to postpone my upcoming Las Vegas concerts.

"As many of you know, I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures." Although the post didn't go into specifics about her medical issues, fans will be familiar with the star's recent health history.

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The Tennessee-born singer had to withdraw from an appearance at her Dollywood theme park in September 2025 due to a kidney stone infection, following her doctor's advice not to travel. This incident came on top of her grief after the death of her husband, Carl Dean, aged 82, reports the Mirror US.

Her most recent Instagram post from Sunday, September 28, continued: "As I joked with them, it must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up, although it's not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon. In all seriousness, given this, I am not going to be able to rehearse and put together the show that I want you to see, and the show that you deserve to see.

"You pay good money to see me perform, and I want to be at my best for you. While I'll still be able to work on all of my projects from here in Nashville, I just need a little time to get show ready, as they say."

The singer's statement concluded: "Don't worry about me quittin' the business because God hasn't said anything about stopping yet. He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you. I love you and thank you for understanding."

In a separate photograph, alongside the announcement, Dolly revealed revised dates for her Las Vegas residency, which had been scheduled to run later this year from December 4 to 13.

Due to these health concerns, the Nine to Five legend's performances have been postponed until 2026, with fresh dates running from September 17 to 26. Whilst some expressed disappointment, the majority responded with messages of encouragement for the beloved star.

Pop sensation Katy Perry said: "We love you so much you got this!" Another fan wrote: "We love you so much. prayers for a speedy recovery."

A third said: "Don't worry about us, all we care about is you and your health. Please rest up because we believe you when you say there's more big adventures to come." Someone else commented: "I hope you get well soon Dolly! Take the time you need to rest up and get to the place you need to be in order to put on the best show possible! Your fans will be there waiting for you."

What are kidney stones?

According to the NHS, kidney stones are usually found in the kidneys or in the ureter, the tube that connects the kidneys to the bladder. If left untreated, they can be extremely painful and can lead to kidney infections or the kidney not working properly.

These stones can develop in one or both kidneys and most often affect people between the ages of 30 and 60. Larger kidney stones can cause several symptoms, such as pain in the side of your tummy (abdomen), severe pain that comes and goes and feeling sick or vomiting

It's estimated that up to half of all people who have had kidney stones will experience them again within the following 5 years. To avoid getting kidney stones, make sure you drink plenty of water every day so you do not become dehydrated.