Dolly Parton Played Miley Cyrus' Aunt On A Classic Disney Sitcom

Dolly Parton, the legendary singer-songwriter, made her mark on television with a memorable guest appearance in the hit Disney sitcom 'Hannah Montana.' In 16 episodes of the show, Parton played Aunt Dolly, who wasn't related to main character Miley Stewart (Miley Cyrus) but was her godmother in real life.

In a 2020 interview with Vanity Fair , Parton reflected on how her role came about: '[Miley] stated 'I want my Aunt Dolly on here... I want her on the show,' so they wrote me in the show, and we just worked so great together.

Thanks to her I had a whole new following of people that were turned on to me, these young little kids. For related coverage, explore our detailed analysis on Technology and Digital Systems.

Dolly Parton Played Details and Timeline

Parton passed away on August 25, 2026 .

Her family said in a statement announcing her death, "A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family."

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Dolly Parton Played Next Steps and Impact

Sixteen episodes into the hit Disney sitcom "Hannah Montana," Dolly Parton made her first guest appearance. Parton played Aunt Dolly, who wasn't related to main character Miley Stewart (Miley Cyrus) Aunt Dolly was Miley's godmother in the show, just like Parton was Cyrus' godmother in real life.

In a 2020 interview with Vanity Fair , Parton reflected on how her role on the show came about: "[Miley] stated 'I want my Aunt Dolly on here... I want her on the show,' so they wrote me in the show, and we just worked so great together.

Thanks to her I had a whole new following of people that were turned on to me, these young little kids." "She didn't know it," Parton stated about Cyrus, "but I was watching her like a proud mama, thinking 'You go, you little thing. I'm so proud of you,' and I've always been proud of Miley, she is so talented." Dolly Parton made two more guest appearances as Aunt Dolly on the series, and was open to starring in the 2009 "Hannah Montana" movie.

Although Parton expressed some disappointment when her character wasn't included in the script, she explained that appearing in the show had been "probably the best move" she could've made for her career thanks to the new generation of viewers it introduced her to.