Dolly Parton postpones Las Vegas residency due to health struggles

Dolly Parton has recently been in the spotlight not just for her enduring career and her ambitious upcoming projects, but also for what she’s called “health challenges” that are affecting her ability to perform. In September 2025, she canceled a Dollywood appearance due to a kidney-stone–related infection. Now she is postponing her planned Las Vegas residency (originally slated for December 2025) to September 2026.

Here’s a look at what is known so far, how she is addressing it, and what it might mean for her future.

Recent Health Issues: Kidney Stone, Infection, and Caution

On 17 September 2025, Parton withdrew from a Dollywood event amid complications from a kidney stone that, she said, “turned out it’d given me an infection.” 

In a video message, she explained that she had been advised by a doctor not to travel while recovering and that she would need a few days’ rest. 

Although she didn’t elaborate in great medical detail, that kidney issue appears to have been a strong contributor to her recent cancellations and postponements. Given her age (now 79), one can reasonably understand that recovery from even minor health setbacks can require more time and caution than for younger performers.

Parton assures fans she's not Quitting Show Business

Parton had announced a six-show residency in Las Vegas at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, to take place December 4–13, 2025, coinciding with the National Finals Rodeo. 

On 28 September 2025, she took to social media to tell fans directly that she must postpone the shows. She cited “health challenges” and said her doctors recommended “a few procedures.” She added with her characteristic humor, “it must be time for my 100,000-mile checkup, although it’s not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon!”

Because of her health, she said she wouldn’t be able to rehearse or fully prepare the show she “wants you to see, and the show that you deserve to see.”

The new dates have been set for September 2026 (six shows between September 17 and 26). Original tickets will remain valid, and refunds are expected to be available.

In her post, Parton humorously reassured fans that she’s not retiring, saying:

“Don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet. … I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you.” 

What We Don’t Know (Yet)

• She has not disclosed precisely which procedures or treatments are needed, or the timeline for recovery beyond the delay of the shows.
  
  

• There’s no indication that any of the conditions are life-threatening or chronic—at least publicly.
  
  

• It’s unclear whether this will prompt further schedule adjustments, or whether she will scale back future touring plans.

The Bigger Picture: Age, Legacy & Resilience

Dolly Parton is at a stage in her life and career where pacing becomes more important. She has decades of achievements behind her, but also more she wants to do, including the Vegas shows, ongoing music releases, and other creative endeavors.

Her decision to postpone, rather than cancel outright, suggests she is aiming to return in full strength rather than perform below her standard (a move her fans will likely appreciate). Her humor and openness in communicating with her audience also signal a desire to stay connected during a challenging time.

While health hiccups are inevitable with age, how she manages them and structures her commitments going forward will be important to watch.