Miley Cyrus struggled to hold back tears as she paid tribute to Dolly Parton during an emotional performance in Los Angeles, sharing a deeply personal story about an experience that made her feel her late godmother is still by her side.
Miley Cyrus addressed the crowd at the Hollywood Bowl on Sunday, October 18, in a moment captured on video by Entertainment Weekly. Holding a heart-shaped frame with a photo of Dolly Parton, Cyrus opened up about her grief and explained why her presence still feels so close.
She also revealed that she recently experienced something unusual after one of her shows. While alone at home, she decided to honor Parton in a personal way.
“I actually have a Dolly mannequin in my bedroom. She gave it to me for Christmas. It’s dressed like her; it’s built like her,” she said, according to Tyla.
“When I was by myself, I actually took my phone, and I played ‘Jolene’ for her on video, holding it up to the mannequin, and lit a candle. I put a flower down for her.”
“I know she’s here with me”
During the moment, Cyrus said she silently asked Parton for a sign that she was nearby.
“I said, ‘Dolly, if you’re here right now, flicker the lights.’”
According to Cyrus, the lights throughout her hallway began flickering shortly afterward. She also pointed to a collaborator who was present and said he could confirm what happened.
“He was there, but he didn’t know what I said. So, I know she’s here with me tonight.”
She ended her tribute through tears, telling the crowd: “No matter what it takes, this show is for you and for Dolly.”
Miley Cyrus’ heartbreaking message after Dolly Parton’s death
Parton died in August, at age 80, following a brief battle with cancer, leaving behind a decades-long musical legacy and a particularly meaningful relationship with Cyrus.
Beyond their personal bond, she played an important role in guiding and supporting Cyrus as she built her career. Following Parton’s death, Cyrus shared an emotional statement on Instagram.
“The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share. Our most sacred moments were private, and they’ll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts.
“What I KNOW is Dolly would want me to feel it, write a song about it, and then continue on and be strong. I have an angel by my side. I always have. One of our last conversations was about music and metamorphosis.
“I will always love her and want to make her proud. My heart breaks for the world, her family and friends who will miss her deeply. We’re in this loss together, and we will see her in all of the most beautiful things.”
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