Country music icon Reba McEntire will lead a special tribute to the late Dolly Parton at the 78th Emmy Awards on Monday night, September 14, according to Deadline. The performance comes less than a month after Parton passed away at the age of 80 on August 25, celebrating a television legacy that included five Emmy nominations and a win for Outstanding Television Movie.
Reba McEntire to Honor Longtime Friend
McEntire is set to take the stage during the ceremony to honor her longtime friend and collaborator. According to Deadline, additional details regarding the specific songs McEntire will perform have not yet been revealed by event organizers.
The two country stars shared a history of recording together over the years. Most recently, they teamed up for a new version of McEntire’s hit song “Does He Love You” in 2021. Following news of Parton’s passing last month, McEntire was among the many country music artists who paid public tribute to the legend.
Dolly Parton’s Extensive Television Legacy
Beyond her monumental career in country music, Parton maintained a lengthy and influential history with the television industry. She hosted two different variety series, beginning with the syndicated program Dolly! in 1976 and later starring in ABC’s Dolly in 1987. Her small-screen appearances also included numerous television specials, such as Kenny & Dolly: A Christmas to Remember alongside Kenny Rogers.
Behind the scenes, Parton co-founded Sandollar Productions. The company went on to produce notable television shows including Buffy the Vampire Slayer and its spinoff Angel. Throughout her career, Parton earned five Emmy nominations, ultimately winning the award for Outstanding Television Movie in 2021 as an executive producer of the Netflix project Dolly Parton’s Christmas on the Square.
Did You Know?
Dolly Parton’s production company, Sandollar Productions, helped bring cult-classic television to life by backing shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer long before she secured her individual Emmy win in 2021.
How to Watch the 78th Emmy Awards
The 78th Emmy Awards will be hosted by Mariska Hargitay. The ceremony is scheduled to air live on Monday, September 14, across NBC and Peacock, where viewers can watch McEntire’s tribute alongside the evening’s competitive categories.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the 2026 Emmy Awards airing?
The 78th Emmy Awards air live on Monday, September 14, on NBC and Peacock.
Who is hosting the 78th Emmy Awards?
Mariska Hargitay is hosting the ceremony.
Who is performing the tribute to Dolly Parton?
Reba McEntire is leading the tribute performance honoring Dolly Parton during the ceremony, according to Deadline.
How many Emmy nominations did Dolly Parton receive?
Dolly Parton earned five Emmy nominations throughout her career, winning Outstanding Television Movie in 2021 for Dolly Parton’s Christmas on the Square.
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