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Following the passing of Dolly Parton at the age of 80, her former 9 to 5 co-star Jane Fonda has shared heartfelt memories of the beloved country music icon, including a moment when Parton gently corrected her and Lily Tomlin over an unintended offense.
In a recent interview on Democracy Now, the 88-year-old Oscar-winning actress recounted a photo session during the filming of the 1980 comedy. The three stars had playfully crossed their eyes for a picture, but Parton quickly intervened.
Fonda recalled, “Dolly got very upset. She said, ‘We never can show this to anybody.
It looks like we’re making fun [of people]. I have a relative who’s cross-eyed, I don’t ever want to see this picture.’”
Reflecting on Parton’s influence, Fonda emphasized the singer’s genuine kindness and universal love. “She really did mean love. She loved everyone,” Fonda said, highlighting the warmth and respect that defined Parton’s public and private life.
Beyond that incident, Fonda noted how Parton’s respect for her fans left a lasting impression. “She always was pulled together, always who she was, out of respect for her fans. She taught me the importance of acknowledging and respecting fans,” Fonda shared, acknowledging the profound example set by her co-star.
Fonda also remembered Parton’s support during her audition for the 1984 television film The Dollmaker, recounting days spent driving through Appalachia and helping with backup vocals at the Grand Ole Opry. These moments exemplified the country legend’s generosity and kindness.
Dolly Parton passed away on August 25 after a brief battle with cancer, prompting tributes from across the entertainment world. Fonda expressed her devastation, writing, “I never knew anyone like her. She was simultaneously a naughty, playful southern gal from the hollows of Tennessee and a deep, soulful thinker who could see through people right down to their true selves.”
Lily Tomlin also honored Parton as “The Great Harmonizer of Humanity.” Fonda described her as the “voluptuous embodiment of empathy,” a quality she believes Parton would want everyone to embrace.
Dolly Parton’s legacy, marked by compassion and authenticity, clearly touched those who knew her best and continues to inspire countless fans worldwide.