Miley Cyrus Reveals Her Final Conversation With Godmother Dolly Parton

Miley Cyrus is opening up about one of her final conversations with her godmother, country music legend Dolly Parton, sharing an intimate look at the bond they maintained through music, family and years in the spotlight.

Parton died on August 25, 2026, at age 80 following a brief battle with cancer. Weeks later, Cyrus reflected on their last conversation during an interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe.

Their Final Conversation Was About Music

Cyrus revealed that the final time she spoke with Parton, she was telling her about her new album, Bass Persuades.

Rather than focusing on the sadness of their final exchange, Cyrus remembered it as a conversation between two musicians who understood one another despite their differences.

She explained that those differences were part of what made their relationship so meaningful. Parton had built a larger-than-life public image, while Cyrus spent much of her career navigating different personas, particularly during her years as Hannah Montana.

Dolly’s Advice Stayed With Miley

Cyrus said Parton taught her that creating a public persona did not mean losing sight of who she really was.

For Cyrus, Parton was proof that someone could embrace glamour, performance and celebrity while still remaining genuine behind the scenes.

That lesson became particularly important as Cyrus grew from a child star into an adult artist.

Cyrus also recalled Parton giving her advice about showing emotion while performing. After watching Cyrus become emotional during a performance of “End of the World,” Parton reminded her that music could provide an escape for audiences.

Although the two did not always approach performances in exactly the same way, Cyrus said Parton accepted her for who she was.

A Bond That Went Beyond Music

Cyrus has often described Parton as more than an industry mentor. Their relationship was deeply personal, with Parton serving as a steady presence throughout Cyrus’ life and career.

Parton appeared alongside Cyrus during her Hannah Montana years and later performed with her on major stages, including the Grammy Awards.

Cyrus has said that Parton was someone she could turn to whenever she needed guidance. After her godmother’s passing, she reflected on how difficult it would be to lose one of those older figures she could always call for advice.

“She was always right,” Cyrus said while remembering the wisdom Parton had given her.

Remembering Dolly With Love

After Parton’s passing, Cyrus shared a deeply personal tribute, saying that some of their most meaningful moments would remain private.

She also remembered that one of their final conversations was about “music and metamorphosis,” a fitting reflection of the relationship between an established legend and the younger artist she helped guide.

For Cyrus, Dolly Parton’s influence was never limited to music. It was also about authenticity, confidence and learning how to remain yourself while living a very public life.

As Cyrus continues her own musical journey, the lessons she learned from her godmother remain part of the legacy Parton leaves behind.