Reba McEntire Pays Tearful Tribute to Dolly Parton During Emmys

Dolly Parton passed away on August 25, 2026, shocking the world and leaving us all heartbroken. There will never be another Dolly, but she left quite a bit of sparkle behind that will certainly shine on. Reba McEntire paid tribute to her dear friend during the show, singing Dolly’s song “Appalachian Memories.” Many noticed the fiery redhead became teary-eyed as she sang. A keen-eyed few also noticed Reba McEntire’s subtle and sweet nod to Dolly Parton’s glamorous fashion sense.

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The Dolly Archive shared on Instagram that Reba McEntire didn’t just pay tribute to Dolly Parton; she had a piece of the star with her as she sang.

“Tonight at the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards,@Reba McEntire paid tribute to Dolly with a performance of ‘Appalachian Memories.’ The Dolly Archive was honored to loan Reba a few pieces of Dolly’s jewelry to wear during her performance, including Dolly’s earrings from the “Does He Love You” music video and a butterfly ring from Dolly’s personal collection,” per an Instagram post.

Fans loved knowing that Dolly was right there all evening long.

“@reba did an amazing song tribute, and the earrings and butterfly ring were perfect, along with her white dress! Only Reba could do this tribute justice!” A fan wrote.

This person agreed, writing, “Reba, Did an Amazing tribute song for her Dear Friend, Chosen Sister! The ring, earrings were perfect for such a Beautiful tribute. Along with the Stunning Dress! Reba, Herself looked like a Beautiful Earthly Angel!!! Which she is!!! Only Reba could to something as special as this!!! Reba, We love you!!! You’re The BEST!!!!”

We know Dolly Parton was smiling down at Reba McEntire and all her other dear friends during the show. Hopefully she sent a few butterflies, too, for good measure.

This story’s featured image is by Trae Patton/NBC via Getty Images