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The tribute paid by actor Rick Schroder to Dolly Parton following her passing on August 25 has sparked significant controversy and backlash, including criticism from fellow celebrities. Schroder, known for his role on NYPD Blue, shared a post on Instagram honoring Parton, with whom he worked on the projects Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors and its sequel Circle of Love.
In his message, Schroder expressed mixed feelings, stating, “I didn’t agree with her advocating for Transgender & Covid Vaccine support…but Loved her anyway. Thank you for choosing me Dolly to be your Movie Daddy.” This political commentary, inserted into a tribute, drew swift and harsh responses from fans and notable public figures alike.
Musician Boy George responded bluntly on Threads with “Oh, shut up,” while journalist Katie Couric simply wrote “Ick.” Actor Michael Kelly also weighed in, telling Schroder to “Oh STFU.”
Schroder was not alone in facing criticism for his tribute. J.K.
Rowling, author of the Harry Potter series, also honored Parton, praising her literacy program, the Imagination Library, and recalling a brief encounter with the singer. However, Rowling’s tribute was met with intense backlash due to her well-known opposition to transgender rights, contrasting with Parton’s staunch advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community.
Critics called Rowling a “monster,” highlighting the ideological divide.
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump also received negative reactions after his remarks about Parton. Though he initially ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in her honor, his later comments during a radio interview, where he suggested Parton “really liked me” and emphasized his personal connection to her, were perceived as self-serving. Social media users responded by underscoring the stark differences between Trump’s persona and Parton’s celebrated qualities of kindness, generosity, and empathy.
The varied responses to tributes for Dolly Parton reflect the deep cultural and political divides present in today’s public discourse, even in moments meant to celebrate the legacy of a beloved icon.