Dolly Parton's Estate Cuts Ties With Nephew Bryan Seaver Over Security Role
Dolly Parton's estate has ended its business relationship with her nephew Bryan Seaver, who served as her head of security for over two decades.
The estate of the late country music legend Dolly Parton has severed business ties with her nephew Bryan Seaver, who had overseen her security for more than twenty years.
Seaver, who spoke on behalf of the family when Parton's death was announced on August 25, said his long-standing security role was eliminated without warning. A termination notice from his company, dated September 21, was obtained by TMZ.
According to Seaver, the decision was communicated through Parton's former manager Danny Nozell and Pinnacle Bank. He described himself as "dismayed by the unexpected and, so far, unexplained actions."
The notice immediately revoked Seaver's security access to Parton's properties, though it specified that his personal interest in the family trust would not be affected.
Despite the termination, Seaver said his commitment to the family remains intact. "We remain unshakably resolved to fulfill her final directive to protect her family," he said, adding that they would not be intimidated by actions they believe are being taken in bad faith and with the intent to profit from Parton's life.
Seaver's connection to Parton's security detail predates his own tenure; his father, Larry Seaver, held the role before him. In an Instagram video posted after the announcement of Parton's death, Seaver reflected on his more than two decades in the position.
"As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment, but haven't truly felt it until now," he said. "It is an honor, an honor that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness."
He credited Parton with expanding the horizons of her entire family. "Dolly opened doors not just for me, but for her entire family to reach the potential we didn't even know was possible," he said. "By her example, we believed that anything was possible. She never saw a door she couldn't open, and the doors she opened made and changed history."
Parton, an 11-time Grammy winner, died days after being hospitalized with complications from a brief battle with cancer. Her passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from relatives, peers and fans, with numerous stars honoring the country music icon.