7 Dolly Parton movie appearances that prove her talent goes beyond music

The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas | Image Source: Universal Pictures
The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas | Image Source: Prime Video

Dolly Parton is not just a world-renowned musician; she is also a respected lyricist and a performer. Additionally, the big screen is yet another field where she has effectively shown her charisma and talent. Comedy, drama, musicals, and fantasy, Dolly has worked in all of these genres. Broadway-worthy musical films or television specials have not been an obstacle to her, and the result is always something that very few can achieve.

However, being a world star in music has not been an easy road. Lady Gaga, for example, has worked harder than anyone else in the industry recently, both on and off the stage. Ariana Grande, with all her talent and attitude, has also been grinding. Singer-songwriter Dolly Parton and her business skills and property investments have put her net worth at $500 million definitely not bad for a girl who grew up in poverty.

Here are Dolly Parton's 7 movie appearances that prove her talent goes beyond music.

Disclaimer: This article contains the writer's opinion. Readers’ discretion is advised.


7 Dolly Parton movie appearances that prove her talent goes beyond music

1. 9 to 5

9 to 5 | Image Source: Prime Video
9 to 5 | Image Source: Prime Video

Dolly Parton had a major screen debut in 9 to 5, and she immediately demonstrated that she was cut out for the movies. As Doralee Rhodes, a clever and assertive secretary, she combined humor with charm. The film addressed problems of working conditions, and Dolly's own vibrancy made her indelible.

Parton's hit single, '9 to 5,' also turned into an anthem for working girls. Even now, her fans laud her for her impact on female roles in Hollywood. In 2024, the legacy of the film was honored in a string of retrospectives, reminding viewers how Dolly's movie debut proved she was more than a country music icon.


2. The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas

The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas | Image Source: Prime Video
The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas | Image Source: Prime Video

In this musical comedy, Dolly Parton starred as Mona Stangley, a tough and compassionate woman owning a brothel in Texas. Her performance demonstrated her skill in mixing humor, warmth, and confidence perfectly. She co-starred with Burt Reynolds, but Dolly's charm won over the audience.

The movie was a box office success and even landed her a Golden Globe nomination. Over the years, it has been re-watched by enthusiasts who appreciate how she tackled daring themes with class and humor. Dolly's spirited acting in this film showed that she could have the audience laughing, crying, and cheering for her at the same time.


3. Steel Magnolias

Steel Magnolias | Image Source: Netflix
Steel Magnolias | Image Source: Netflix

In Steel Magnolias, Dolly Parton revealed a softer emotional personality as Truvy Jones, a small-town beautician who serves as the heart of her town. Surrounded by an amazing female cast, she gave one of her most beloved performances. The themes of loss and friendship that the movie contained resonated with audiences so deeply, and Dolly's soothing warmth provided it with balance.

Even decades on, the film is a comfort classic frequently trending once more on streaming services. Dolly herself stated in a 2023 interview that Steel Magnolias taught her the beauty of telling stories that "make people feel seen."


4. Straight Talk

Straight Talk | Image Source: Hollywood Pictures
Straight Talk | Image Source: Hollywood Pictures

Dolly Parton showcased her own natural wit and self-assurance in Straight Talk, where she stars as Shirlee Kenyon, a small-town woman who stumbles into fame as a popular radio talk show host. The film was both lighthearted and inspiring, proving that honesty and kindness can still cut through in a cutthroat world. Dolly's sharp humor and charm effortlessly propelled the movie.

In 2024, it had a new following on streaming, with young viewers appreciating how relatable her persona still felt today. The film's message is that what's real never goes out of fashion, suited Dolly's personality in real life


5. Unlikely Angel

Unlikely Angel | Image Source: Prime Video
Unlikely Angel | Image Source: Prime Video

In this heartwarming Christmas movie, Dolly starred as a singer who has to earn her angel wings for assisting a family in healing. The role provided her the opportunity to blend humor, music, and emotional substance quite magnificently. Her radiant screen presence turned the film into a holiday favorite among many families.

In recent holiday times, it has been seen again on streaming sites, evoking memories of Dolly's gentle storytelling magic. The film also portrayed her actual faith in kindness and goodness. People always comment that this film is like Dolly's heart on film. It demonstrated how naturally she could shift from comedy to sheer emotion.


6. Joyful Noise

Joyful Noise | Image Source: Prime Video
Joyful Noise | Image Source: Prime Video

In Joyful Noise, Dolly Parton collaborated with Queen Latifah for a lighthearted music-infused tale of two choir directors battling to save their town's gospel competition. The film showcased Dolly's talent for blending comedy, music, and good works. Her energetic performance and powerful vocals made it one to remember.

The soundtrack to the film reminded audiences that her music and acting careers blend harmoniously. Even in her 60s, Dolly added more vitality than ever before. Critics in 2023 referred to this film as one of her most underappreciated, praising the way she used humor and hope to lift people everywhere.


7. Christmas on the Square

Christmas on the Square | Image Source: Netflix
Christmas on the Square | Image Source: Netflix

In this Christmas musical on Netflix, Dolly Parton acted as an angel who inspires a cold and hard woman to regain compassion. The film's beautiful colors, upbeat melodies, and warm message made it a holiday success. Dolly co-wrote all the songs as well, demonstrating her creativity outside of acting.

It was released amid the pandemic and brought smiles to many households when people were in need of hope the most. It still airs every Christmas, with critics labeling it a perfect blend of sparkle and soul. Dolly's light and kindness really come through in this role, demonstrating her magic then and now, both on and off screen.


Dolly Parton’s movie journey is a perfect mirror image of her music path, genuine, heartwarming, and soulful. Whichever role she has taken, be it in a comic or a serious one, the legendary singer has been able to light up and touch the hearts of all age groups with her deeply felt emotions.

Dolly Parton is an inexhaustible fountain of the purest and most precious material talent. Parton will always be the same, an endless spring of creativity and gentleness, whether on-screen or on the stage.

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Edited by Amey Mirashi