Dolly Parton’s Dollywood theme park opened for business on March 13, 2026. This year, the icon herself took center stage. Dolly missed opening day in 2025 following the loss of her husband, Carl Dean. This year, she returned better than ever. Dolly Parton also addressed some health issues that made the last few months difficult. “I’ve not been touring, as you know,” according to WVLT 8, per People. “I’ve had a few little health issues, and we’re taking good care of them.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dollywood Parks & Resorts (@dollywood) Dolly Parton Takes Her Health Seriously At 80, Dolly Parton understands the importance of caring for her health. She didn’t want to rush into anything before she really felt well again. “I just kind of got worn down and worn out, grieving over Carl and a lot of other little things going on,” Dolly admitted. “I just got myself kind of where I needed to build myself back up spiritually, emotionally, and physically. But, all is good. It didn’t slow me down.” She also joked about the new man in her life, Eugene Naughton. But don’t get things twisted, after 58 years with Carl by her side, Dolly isn’t rushing into a new relationship. Eugene serves as Dollywood Company President. She joked that Carl probably wouldn’t take kindly to her finding a new man. “I think Carl Dean’s waiting for me,” she said. “If I should show up at the pearly gates with somebody else, he would not like that. He’d be saying, ‘Who’s that little pisser? You leave him outside the gates.’ ” We’re so happy to see Dolly Parton back in good health and getting back to what she loves. She’s a national treasure, and we have to protect her at all costs. This story’s featured image is by Samir Hussein/WireImage.