Dolly Parton's death on Tuesday shocked and saddened the entertainment world and beyond. Among the countless tributes that poured in, Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon reflected on Parton's life and legacy in a series of touching remarks about the country music legend and cultural icon.
Fallon shared a close professional relationship with Parton through her many appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The late-night TV host took to Twitter on Tuesday to reflect on the time he spent with one of the most beloved entertainers in American history.
“She was a phenomenal guest on the show; always funny and always made everyone she met feel like a million dollars," Fallon wrote. The Tonight Show host went on to recall some of the memorable experiences he shared with Parton, including performing music together and visiting her Tennessee theme park.
“We did duets together, laughed together and danced through Dollywood in the Smoky Mountains of Pigeon Forge,” Fallon shared. “And even though we did all that, I would still get butterflies just being in her presence.”
The comedian continued, describing what it was like to spend so much time in Parton's presence. Millions of fans around the world felt like they knew the singer, and Fallon managed to capture what many always believed to be true of Parton behind the scenes.
“She’s a butterfly. Beautiful. Magical. Dreamy. And like most butterflies, they stay for a moment - captivate you, fascinate you, mesmerize you and then fly away far too soon," Fallon said before concluding with “I love you Dolly. I will always miss you."
Parton's personality made her a dream guest for any late-night television show and Fallon's Tonight Show was no different. She could be self-deprecating, push the envelope, and be incredibly candid during any interview.
That made her a perfect match for Fallon. Both entertainers are known for their entusiasm and ability to talk with anyone. And as a late-night host, Fallon knew when to pull back and let Parton's larger-than-life personality shine through.
During one of her Tonight Show appearances, Parton gave Fallon a palm reading while discussing her Netflix anthology series. And in a a 2019 appearance, Parton explained that her acrylic nails helped create the rhythmic sound used in “9 to 5.” The singer has also shared her wigs with Fallon, teased a secret buried at Dollywood, and explained her signature style.
In 2022, she and Fallon released the holiday song “Almost Too Early for Christmas,” giving the host an opportunity to actually collaborate musically with one of his favorite guests. Fallon also called on Parton's goddaughter Miley Cyrus to recreate the duet "Islands in the Stream."
With all those appearances and collaborations, Fallon still felt nervous around Parton. It is a testament to Parton's place in the entertainment industry and the warmth with which she seemed to do everything in life.
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