Image Source: WVLT
What Dolly Parton said in her last interview has not been detailed in the latest report from WVLT. Instead, the report focuses on how Dollywood will carry forward her vision following the death of the country music star and philanthropic icon.
Dollywood President Eugene Naughton addressed the public on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026, outlining major renovations, new resort projects and several permanent tributes planned for the world-renowned theme park and resort properties in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
What Dolly Parton Said in Her Last Interview Remains Unconfirmed
The available report does not include a transcript, direct quote or specific details from Dolly Parton’s final interview. It also does not identify a particular interview as her last public conversation.
That distinction matters because fans are searching for verified information about Parton’s final words, final public appearance and plans for the future. Based on the reported comments, however, Dollywood officials are emphasizing her long-term influence and the extensive plans she developed before her death.
Naughton said Parton had already helped prepare the organization for the future, with plans extending through 2036.
“She knew what she wanted Dollywood to be,” Naughton said. “She taught us how to dream big.”
Powerful Dollywood Plans Inspired by Dolly Parton
Naughton revealed that several major projects are planned or already underway. The strategy includes a half-billion-dollar investment focused on resort improvements, new guest experiences and continued community service.
- Five new resorts: Dollywood’s long-range development plan includes additional resort properties.
- Major renovations: Existing resorts and future resort projects are part of the investment strategy.
- A guitar sculpture: A new guitar statue is planned for the Dollywood fountain.
- A public reflection area: Visitors will have an opportunity to share stories about how Parton influenced their lives.
- Chapel restoration: Restoration work is among the projects planned as part of the park’s continuing legacy efforts.
According to Naughton, the resort projects were approved before Parton’s death. The plans include work associated with resorts three, four, five and six, as well as renovations to existing properties.
When Will Dollywood’s New Projects Be Ready?
Much of the work is described as planned and underway, with several projects expected to be ready by March 2027. Naughton also said the city of Sevierville would begin installing parts of the upcoming tribute work within days of his announcement.
The timeline gives Dollywood guests an opportunity to see Parton’s vision continue to take shape. It also signals that the park’s future will remain closely connected to the values she promoted, including imagination, generosity, family entertainment and service to the East Tennessee community.
How Dollywood Will Remember Dolly Parton
Dollywood is also creating a digital tribute kiosk in Wildwood Grove. The feature will allow visitors and members to document personal stories about Parton and explain the impact she had on their lives.
Those messages may be shared publicly or kept private at the visitor’s discretion. The goal is to give fans a meaningful way to remember Parton while creating a lasting collection of personal memories.
Memorial walls placed outside Dollywood have also drawn public attention. Naughton said officials have not yet decided how long the walls will remain available for visitors.
“I don’t know how long it will last,” he said, adding that the park wants to give people plenty of time to participate in a special way.
The tribute plans come as East Tennessee continues to mourn Parton, whose career reached far beyond country music. Through Dollywood, her resorts and her charitable work, she built an enduring connection with visitors, families and residents across the region.
What This Means for Dolly Parton’s Legacy
Although the latest report does not confirm what Dolly Parton said in her last interview, it does provide a clear picture of how Dollywood plans to honor her. The park’s leadership says Parton prepared the organization well in advance and left a detailed roadmap for its future.
For fans, that means her influence will remain visible in new attractions, resort renovations, memorial spaces and guest experiences. The guitar sculpture, reflection area and digital kiosk will offer immediate ways to celebrate her life, while the 2036 development plan points to a much longer commitment.
Dollywood’s message is both emotional and practical: Parton’s presence will continue through the people she inspired and the places she helped create. As more details about her final public remarks become available, fans will likely continue looking for her words. For now, the strongest confirmed message comes from the legacy she left behind—and the plans she made to keep dreaming big.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Dolly Parton said in her last interview?
The latest WVLT report does not provide details about Dolly Parton’s last interview, including a transcript, date or final quote from her.
Who announced Dollywood’s future plans?
Eugene Naughton, the president of Dollywood, announced the park’s upcoming renovations, resort projects and tribute plans on Sept. 2, 2026.
What new tribute will be added to Dollywood?
A guitar sculpture is planned for the Dollywood fountain, and a digital reflection kiosk will allow visitors to share personal Dolly Parton stories.
When could the Dollywood projects be completed?
Many of the remaining projects are planned or underway, with several expected to be ready by March 2027. Long-range plans extend through 2036.
How can visitors honor Dolly Parton at Dollywood?
Visitors can participate in the memorial displays and use the Wildwood Grove reflection kiosk to share messages publicly or privately.
