Miley Cyrus was overcome with emotion as she paid tribute to her beloved late “Aunt Dolly” during her return to the stage at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.
Making her first solo performance since 2022, the singer delivered a soulful cover of Dolly Parton’s hit “Jolene.” Before launching into the song, however, Cyrus paused to speak about her godmother, the “Queen of Country,” becoming tearful as she reflected on their special bond.
“Me and Dolly, we are eternal,” Cyrus told the audience while sitting at the edge of the stage. “Nothing in this life could ever tear us apart.”
The singer grew particularly emotional as she spoke about Parton no longer being there. The country music legend died in August at the age of 80 following a brief battle with cancer, according to her estate.
“And I’m gonna see her again,” Cyrus said. “And I can’t f—— wait. And I miss her.”
@allenedits1995 Miley’s Tribute For Her Godmother – Dolly Parton 🥹 Hollywood Bowl 2026 @Miley Cyrus @Dolly Parton #miley #mileycyrus #dollyparton #hollywoodbowl #jolene ♬ original sound – Allen Edits
The heartfelt moment took place during Cyrus’ first-ever performance at the iconic Hollywood Bowl. Her second sold-out show is scheduled for October 18. The “Flowers” singer is currently promoting her new album, “Bass Persuades,” and last played a full-length concert in Mexico at the Corona Capital Festival roughly four years ago.
The venue also held special meaning for Cyrus because she had only seen Parton perform live once in her life — at the Hollywood Bowl itself.
“Some of the greatest music that we have today was written, produced, performed by my Aunt Dolly,” Cyrus said as she introduced “Jolene.” “This is one of those songs.”
Parton had been a constant presence in Cyrus’ life for decades. The country icon previously toured with Miley’s father, country singer Billy Ray Cyrus, and became Miley’s godmother when the singer was born in 1992.
In an interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, released on September 17, Cyrus also opened up about the meaningful relationship she shared with Parton.
“ She was always right,” Cyrus said. “It’s like how your mom’s always right, and when you’re a kid, you’re like, ‘What does she know?’ And then as you get older, you’re like, ‘Everything. How? Where did this come from? You’re just a normal person. Why do you know everything?’”
Cyrus added: “Dolly was just always right about stuff.”
Source: Various
