Dolly Parton Has Given Up Touring, Responds To Madonna’s Demanding Schedule

Dolly Parton discusses her future

Both Dolly Parton and Madonna boast careers that span decades and have reshaped the pop culture landscape. However, although Parton has long kept herself busy, she does not see herself touring again, in general and in consideration of the grueling schedule Madonna has put herself through over the years.

Madonna, 64, recently made headlines after she was found unresponsive in NYC and rushed to the ICU with a severe infection. Her intense daily routine also came to light and it’s something that Parton says isn’t for her, at 77.

Dolly Parton weighs in on what happened to Madonna

Madonna was intubated over the weekend with a severe bacterial infection. The exact source is, by time of writing, unknown, but after being moved to a regular ward, she has since been sent home, according to her friend Debi Mazar, who assures fans that Madonna is “on the mend.”

RELATED: Madonna Ignored Symptoms For Weeks Before Eventual Hospitalization

Some details surrounding Madonna’s health, fitness, and work routine surfaced in light of this health scare. “She had been putting in 12-hour days,” an insider told Page Six. “She was strenuously rehearsing and putting in the work.” She was also about to start a tour on July 15 that has since been postponed. Parton, the “Jolene Singer” says, is beyond touring.

The future for Parton, compared to Madonna

After hearing about Madonna, Dolly Parton confirmed that isn’t for her anymore / Van Redin/©Warner Bros. Pictures/Courtesy Everett Collection

Madonna’s schedule isn’t for Parton. “I hate exercise like I hated school,” she revealed, “I do all my hard work now, but I try and diet the best I can and I do the low carb but if I see something I really want I’m gonna eat it.” She added, “Because I’m so little but I still have a farmer’s appetite. I do what I have to do, I do my daily squats.”

Parton used to hit dozens upon dozens of cities / © Buena Vista/courtesy Everett Collection

So, she exercises within certain limits – and she performs within certain limits. Back in 2016, Parton hit 60 cities across the U.S. and Canada for her Pure and Simple tour. These days, she’ll still do isolated performances, nearby venues, and one-offs. Otherwise, she’s done with the “taxing” nature of touring on the road.

“I’m just not willing to do that anymore,” said Parton. “I will continue to do special shows like a long weekend. I’ll probably do some more shows but not touring.”