Singer Katy Perry has paid an emotional tribute to country music icon Dolly Parton, honouring her as a woman who shattered stereotypes, lifted generations, and possessed a spirit as outsized as her legendary heart. Parton passed away on Tuesday at the age of 80 following a brief battle with cancer.

Perry's Tribute on Instagram

Perry took to Instagram to share a series of personal photographs alongside Parton, accompanying them with a deeply felt written message. 'Like the rest of the world, my heart sank seeing the news of dear Dolly's passing. She meant so much to so many people for so long. For me, she was an example of a woman who defied the stereotypes for decades. She proved that big b***s, big brains, and a big voice can all exist in one tiny body! But the biggest thing about her by far was her heart,' Perry wrote.

Personal Memories and the Super Bowl Dream

The 'Roar' hitmaker recalled meeting and performing alongside Parton on multiple occasions, describing each encounter as a cherished experience. Perry also revealed a memorable behind-the-scenes moment: she had once dreamed of having Parton join her during her Super Bowl halftime show, envisioning her emerging from a giant rhinestone cowboy boot. Though Parton was unable to participate at the time, she reportedly sent Perry's team a warm note — by fax — in 2015.

'Every time I saw Dolly, she was a pure, sweet (but not saccharine) sassy, cup of joy. Her way of looking at life with a sense of humor has always been an inspiration to me,' Perry added.

Perry's Final Words for an Icon

Closing her tribute, Perry urged fans to look to Parton as a life model. 'If there's someone you wanna look up to and model your life after, it's Dolly. Dolly was glam, funny, and kind as fuck. Her star will forever shine bright and I bet you she's already remodeling them pearly gates with rhinestones. We will always love you Dolly!' she wrote.

How Dolly Parton's Passing Was Announced

The news of Parton's death was confirmed by her nephew Bryan Seaver, who also served as her head of security, in a video posted to Instagram. She died after a brief battle with cancer at the age of 80. Parton's passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from artists, fans, and public figures across the world — a testament to a career that spanned more than six decades and left an indelible mark on music, philanthropy, and popular culture.

As tributes continue to pour in from across the entertainment world, Parton's legacy as a barrier-breaking artist and humanitarian is expected to endure long beyond her lifetime.