When you think of Dolly Parton, you think of country music royalty, a trailblazer, and a beloved icon. But beyond her legendary career, Dolly has played a significant role in the lives of those she loves, including her special connection with singer Miley Cyrus. Over the years, Dolly has become Miley’s “fairy godmother,” and their heartwarming relationship began with a deep and enduring friendship between Dolly and Miley’s father, Billy Ray Cyrus.
The Early Days of Dolly and Billy Ray’s Friendship
The story of Dolly’s “fairy godmother” role is as charming and unexpected as you might imagine. It all began in the early days of Billy Ray’s career, when Dolly took him under her wing. When Billy Ray’s debut single, “Achy Breaky Heart,” took the country world by storm, Dolly invited him to open for her on tour. Despite the huge success, tabloids soon began to stir up rumors of a romantic connection between Dolly and Billy Ray, which left him feeling uneasy.
Billy Ray shared in an interview how he was so distressed by the headlines that he decided to personally apologize to Dolly. “I went to her dressing room and said, ‘Miss Dolly, I’m so sorry about this,’” he recalled, referring to the tabloid rumors. Dolly, in true Dolly fashion, responded with humor and grace, laughing and telling him, “Honey, that s*** sells records.”
From that moment on, a close friendship blossomed between Dolly and Billy Ray. Their bond grew stronger as they worked together and shared stories about their country roots. But it was when Miley was born that Dolly’s role in her life began to take shape.
Dolly’s Connection with Miley
Dolly has always been open about how she feels about children, despite never having her own. She has said that being an aunt to her nieces and nephews and a “fairy godmother” to her godchildren has brought her immense joy. “I don’t have children of my own, but I’m so blessed to have the opportunity to see the children around me grow up,” Dolly said in an interview. Miley Cyrus, as the daughter of her close friend Billy Ray, became one of those special kids.
When Miley came into the picture, Dolly was immediately smitten by her. “When Miley came along, I said, ‘She’s got to be my fairy goddaughter,’” Dolly revealed. Their connection felt like fate, and from that moment, Dolly became a guiding figure in Miley’s life.
Miley, for her part, has often referred to Dolly with affection, calling her a second mother and a role model. Their relationship has been built on love, mutual respect, and a deep bond that goes beyond the entertainment world. For Dolly, it was never about biological ties—it was about the love she felt for Miley and the role she could play in her life.
Dolly’s Role as a ‘Fairy Godmother’
For Dolly, being a “fairy godmother” to Miley isn’t just a title—it’s a meaningful and beautiful part of their relationship. Dolly has always said that while she may not have had children of her own, she’s been blessed with the opportunity to be a guiding figure to so many kids, including Miley. “It’s been so amazing that I’ve had all these little kids that grew up with that, and now have their little kids,” Dolly shared. “All through the generations, they keep bringing me back around, and I love it.”
Dolly’s influence on Miley has been significant. From offering advice on life and career to simply being there for her during tough times, Dolly has been a constant, loving presence in Miley’s life. In many ways, Dolly’s role in Miley’s life is akin to that of a mentor—someone who has helped guide Miley through the challenges of fame and life.
A Bond That Continues to Grow
As Miley’s career has flourished, so has her bond with Dolly. The two have collaborated on music, performed together on stage, and supported each other through life’s ups and downs. Dolly’s enduring love for Miley and her commitment to being there for her as a “fairy godmother” is a testament to their deep and lasting friendship.
Their special connection proves that family isn’t always about blood—it’s about love, support, and the ties that bind people together. Dolly Parton, with her big heart and unwavering kindness, has proven that sometimes the most powerful relationships are those we choose to nurture, and her role as Miley Cyrus’s fairy godmother is one of the most heartwarming examples of that.
