BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

In the third episode of Khloé in Wonder Land, I sat down with the incomparable Dolly Parton, and what unfolded was a touching, down-to-earth conversation filled with laughter, faith, wisdom, and a deep sense of purpose. From the moment Dolly appeared, wearing rhinestone-studded denim from our Good American collaboration, her charm and authenticity lit up the room.

Dolly shared how her iconic song “I Will Always Love You” nearly became an Elvis duet, and how she ended up recording it with an Elvis sound-alike for her Rockstar album—an experience that was both nostalgic and powerful. She’s a natural storyteller, and each of her stories reveals not just her immense talent, but also her integrity. She never compromised her values for fame or fortune, insisting, “I figured I had enough talent that sooner or later something would happen.”

Our talk touched deeply on her faith—a foundation that continues to shape how she lives and works. Dolly spoke of going to her old Tennessee mountain home to write songs and fast, using the time to reconnect with God and her creativity. “Scared religion is no religion,” she said, reflecting on her Pentecostal upbringing. Her personal connection to God isn’t rooted in fear but in peace, purpose, and quiet confidence. She described discovering that peace not in a church service, but in an old abandoned church near her home, where she first truly felt the presence of God.

We talked about the importance of being grounded—how fame can be fleeting, but faith and family are lasting. Dolly has always asked God to keep her humble, to let His light shine through her for the good of others. “If people see something good in me, I want to give it back,” she shared. This humility is part of what makes her so beloved, even as she dazzles with rhinestones and wit.

Dolly also opened up about her long and private marriage with Carl Dean, a man who avoided the spotlight but supported her fully. Their love was built on mutual respect, simplicity, and staying true to themselves. She emphasized that being comfortable with yourself—learning to like your own company—is essential before you can be truly happy with someone else.

As our conversation turned to her style and humor, Dolly explained how her glamorous look was inspired by country girl dreams, Frederick’s of Hollywood catalogs, and a desire to feel beautiful. “I feel better when I feel like I look good,” she said, noting that confidence begins within. And while her look might be flashy, her heart is deeply rooted in faith, family, and purpose.

Dolly Parton’s life is a testament to living with intention—staying true to who you are, giving back, and letting faith guide the way. Being in conversation with her felt like being with a lifelong friend: warm, wise, and full of light.

*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo from Youtube of Khloe Kardashian