Although Dolly Parton recently put out a rock album, Rockstar, the singer is bowing out of the music scene to focus on her husband, Carl Dean. Carl was apparently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and his condition is reportedly deteriorating.
Dolly wants to care for and spend quality time with her husband before his situation worsens, hence her decision to quit singing. “As her husband’s health takes precedence, she has chosen to take a step back from the stage to focus on what matters most— family,” a source told National Inquirer.
Dolly credits Carl for her career success
Dolly married Charles when she was only 20, and she credits him for her thriving career. The “Jolene” singer admitted to Oprah Winfrey in 2020 that they both sacrificed starting a family for her career. “I think a big part of my whole success is the fact that I was free to work,” she told the show host.
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She also addressed a fan who assumed Carl was not real since he is hardly ever photographed or seen with her. She explained that despite being married to a celebrity, Carl prefers a private life and remains supportive behind the scenes. “He’s like, a quiet, reserved person, and he figured if he ever got out there in that, he’d never get a minute’s peace, and he’s right about that,” she stated.
Dolly remains private about her marriage
The legendary songbird has tried her best to keep the details of her marriage to Carl private, especially now that he is ill; however, she did mention she would “like to stay a little closer to home with my husband” after her Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nomination. An insider confirmed that Carl is now more dependent on her to perform his daily routine.
“They’re not as active physically as they once were. Carl’s not jumping in the car and ready for an adventure like he used to be,” they said. “He relies on Dolly and the staff more these days— but Dolly says it’s better than the alternative.”
Dolly also emphasized the need to be home in case of emergencies. “I would feel bad if I had to leave a tour if somebody got sick at home and needed me and then I had to walk out on the fans,” she explained, justifying her choice to leave the spotlight.