Dolly Parton’s niece, Danielle Parton, has taken on a new role as brand ambassador for the late country icon’s estate, almost two months after the singer’s death.
Danielle shared the news Thursday in an Instagram video, speaking about her bond with her aunt and her commitment to protecting and celebrating Dolly’s enduring legacy.
“Like so many of you, losing her has changed something for me,” Danielle said. “It made me think of the stories, values, and lessons that she left behind and the responsibility that our family has to care for them.”
Dolly died Aug. 25 at age 80 after a brief battle with cancer.
According to the announcement, Danielle will help honor her aunt’s life and achievements while providing an intimate view of the person behind the music.
A military veteran who served for 20 years, Danielle now works as a pilot and entrepreneur. She emphasized that she is not attempting to take her famous aunt’s place.
“I’m not crazy enough to try to fill her shoes. God knows I couldn’t walk on them without killing myself,” she joked.
Rather than imitate Dolly, Danielle said she wants to share memories of the woman their family lovingly called “Aunt Granny.”
“Yes, Dolly Parton was my aunt, but to me, she will always be Aunt Granny,” she said. “She loved us deeply, believed in big dreams, and she always encouraged me to find my way in this world.”
The pair maintained a close relationship. Dolly also delivered a speech at Danielle’s military retirement ceremony in 2025.
Danielle, who is also involved in the moonshine distillery business, said she plans to continue backing the projects and causes that were important to her aunt.
“Being a Parton means hard work, big dreams and never forgetting where you came from,” she wrote in the Instagram caption. “I’m proud to be part of that legacy and to carry it on in my own way.”
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