Vin Diesel singing a Dolly Parton cover probably wasn’t on many people’s bingo cards after news of the country icon’s death broke this week, but such was her influence. Since Parton’s death at 80 on Tuesday, which came after a “brief battle” with cancer, public figures from across the globe have paid tribute to the “Jolene” singer. Few, however, have been as unique as Diesel’s.
On Wednesday, The Pacifier star, 59, shared a clip on Instagram of himself singing a soft and slow rendition of Parton’s 1974 romantic classic, “I Will Always Love You,” which became a global phenomenon in 1992 with Whitney Houston’s cover she recorded for The Bodyguard. Played over a black and white photo of Parton’s face, fans were left speechless by Diesel’s soulful, emotional performance. The post was quickly reshared on X, where it received some light mockery mixed with genuine awe.
Parton’s influence spanned all musical genres. After her death, rapper Eminem shared a heartfelt note he received from Parton in 2022 after he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial.
This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. With love & respect, Dolly Parton.” However, not everyone’s homages to the late “9 to 5” singer have been well received. Ricky Schroder — who played Parton’s father in the TV movies Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors (2015) and its 2016 sequel, Dolly Parton’s Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love — is facing intense criticism for politicizing his tribute.
Thank you for choosing me Dolly to be your Movie Daddy,” Schroder wrote on Instagram. A number of celebrities were quick to call out the actor for sharing transphobic and anti-vaccine rhetoric in his supposed tribute to Parton. Lioness actor Jay Huguley added: “‘I loved her anyway’ what a strange tribute.
Good Lord.” Parton’s family have said she will have a small private funeral with no confirmed plans for a public memorial. Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Extract — continue reading at the source.
