Dolly Parton Awarded Honorary Oscar for Humanitarian Efforts at 2025 Governors Awards

Country music legend Dolly Parton has received an honorary Oscar. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences presented her with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award on Sunday. The ceremony was the 2025 Governors Awards in Los Angeles.

This award honors her decades of philanthropic work. It specifically recognizes her promotion of human welfare and efforts to rectify inequities in entertainment. According to reports from the Academy, her impact extends far beyond music.

Ceremony Proceeds with Parton Absent Due to Scheduling Conflict

Dolly Parton was not present to accept the statuette in person. A scheduling conflict prevented her from attending the Ovation Hollywood event. Her longtime friend, actress and comedian Lily Tomlin, accepted the award on her behalf.

Tomlin gave a short speech honoring Parton’s character and generosity. A pre-recorded video message from Parton was then played for the audience. In it, she expressed profound gratitude for the recognition.

The singer reflected on lessons from her childhood. “We didn’t have much to share, but my mama and dad showed me, by example, that the more you give, the more blessings come your way,” Parton said. She stated she has tried to live by that example her whole life.

Parton Views Award as a Call to Continue Lifelong Mission

In her video message, Parton called the honor a “blessing of a lifetime.” She insisted it was an honor just to be considered for the prestigious award. The 79-year-old icon held up the Oscar statuette on camera.

She stated the award inspires her to dream up new ways to help people. “It makes me want to dream up new ways to help lift people up, and isn’t that what we’re supposed to be here for?” Parton concluded. Her message was met with applause from the gathered industry figures.

This award comes during a challenging period for the star. Parton has been managing health issues recently. She is also coping with the grief following the death of her husband, Carl Dean, in March.

Dolly Parton’s honorary Oscar solidifies her legacy as a cultural icon defined by generosity. Her commitment to humanitarian work continues to inspire globally.

A quick knowledge drop for you:

What is the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award?

It is an honorary Oscar awarded by the Academy’s Board of Governors. It recognizes an individual’s outstanding contributions to humanitarian causes. It is not given for filmmaking achievements.

Why wasn’t Dolly Parton at the ceremony?

She was unable to attend due to a prior scheduling conflict. Her close friend Lily Tomlin accepted the award for her. Parton addressed the audience via a pre-recorded video message.

What did Dolly Parton say in her acceptance video?

She credited her parents for teaching her the value of giving. Parton said the award was a “blessing of a lifetime.” She also stated it motivates her to find new ways to help people.

Has Dolly Parton won a competitive Oscar before?

No, she has not won a competitive Academy Award. She has been nominated twice for Best Original Song. This honorary Oscar is her first statuette from the Academy.

What is Dolly Parton’s recent personal situation?

She has been dealing with undisclosed health issues in recent months. Her husband of over 50 years, Carl Dean, passed away in March 2024. She has maintained a lower public profile during this time.