Miley Cyrus Remembers Dolly Parton: 'I Have an Angel by My Side'

Miley Cyrus has shared an emotional tribute to her godmother, Dolly Parton, following the country legend's death at age 80 after a brief battle with cancer.

In a social media post, Cyrus reflected on the depth of her loss, writing that the feeling of losing Parton is beyond what feels right to share. She noted that their most sacred moments were private and would remain so, but expressed certainty that Parton would want her to feel the grief, write a song about it, and continue on with strength.

"I have an angel by my side. I always have," Cyrus wrote, adding that one of their last conversations was about music and metamorphosis. She said her heart breaks for the world and for Parton's family and friends, and that she will always love her and want to make her proud.

Alongside the message, Cyrus shared a black-and-white photograph of Parton. Her father, Billy Ray Cyrus, also paid tribute, saying Parton had recently told him she loved him with her whole heart.

Parton was a recurring presence in Miley's life from birth. She was named Miley's godmother in 1992 after forming a close bond with Billy Ray during a tour in the 1990s. She later played the fairy godmother on the hit sitcom Hannah Montana, appearing in three episodes between 2006 and 2010.

Their musical connection continued into recent years. On Parton's 2023 album Rockstar, the two collaborated on a new version of Cyrus's 2013 hit "Wrecking Ball."