Dolly Parton, the renowned country music icon, will explore her Welsh roots in an upcoming four-part documentary set for release in 2025. Parton's niece, Jada Star, disclosed the family's Welsh ancestry, revealing that their lineage traces back to the valleys of Wales. Parton, who was born in Tennessee, has enjoyed a successful career with hits such as "Jolene," "9 to 5," and "I Will Always Love You."
During an interview on the BBC’s Today programme, Star expressed excitement about the documentary, calling the discovery "extraordinary." The documentary will explore the family's Welsh heritage, emphasizing the cultural exchanges that occurred as Welsh immigrants settled in Appalachia.
Dolly Parton has previously acknowledged her Welsh ancestry, mentioning it at a 2008 concert in Cardiff and in an interview with Wales Online. She cited the Owens, her mother's family, as having Welsh roots, and conveyed a sense of familial connection when visiting Wales.
Star, a singer herself, is preparing for her performance at Glastonbury Festival and is learning Welsh to further connect with her heritage. The documentary is expected to feature extensive footage from Wales and explore how Welsh musical traditions influenced Appalachian and country music.