Reba McEntire delivered an emotional Dolly Parton tribute at the 2026 Emmys, singing “Appalachian Memories” as Sally Field honored her friend.
Reba McEntire took the stage at the 2026 Emmy Awards to honor her late friend and country music icon Dolly Parton, delivering an emotional performance that brought a poignant moment to the ceremony.
McEntire performed Parton’s “Appalachian Memories” during the show’s tribute segment Monday night, while photos of Parton appeared on screen. The performance followed a heartfelt introduction from actress Sally Field, Parton’s longtime friend and Steel Magnolias co-star.
Reba McEntire honors Dolly Parton
McEntire’s performance became one of the most emotional moments of the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards.
The country superstar appeared onstage to sing Parton’s song as the ceremony remembered the legendary entertainer, who died Aug. 25 at age 80.
At the conclusion of the performance, McEntire delivered a personal message to her longtime friend, saying she loved her deeply.
The tribute reflected the close relationship between the two country music stars, who had remained friends and collaborators throughout their careers.
Sally Field delivers emotional tribute
Before McEntire’s performance, Sally Field spoke about her friendship with Parton.
Field worked alongside Parton in the 1989 film Steel Magnolias, in which the two became close. During the Emmys tribute, Field remembered Parton as an extraordinary entertainer and person.
Field described Parton as an angel and reflected on her authenticity, humor, generosity and impact beyond the entertainment industry.
Her emotional remarks set the stage for McEntire’s musical tribute.
Reba and Dolly shared a longtime friendship
McEntire and Parton were more than fellow country music stars. They maintained a friendship that stretched across decades and included professional collaborations.
McEntire was among the many artists who publicly mourned Parton’s death in August. She previously praised Parton’s enormous heart, music and the lasting memories she created for those who knew her.
The Emmy tribute offered McEntire another opportunity to celebrate Parton’s legacy in front of a national television audience.
Dolly Parton’s lasting Emmy legacy
Parton’s influence extended well beyond country music.
She built a successful career as a singer, songwriter, actress, producer and philanthropist, becoming one of the most recognizable figures in American entertainment.
Her television career included variety programs, specials and production work. She also received multiple Emmy nominations and won an Emmy in 2021 as an executive producer of Netflix’s Dolly Parton’s Christmas on the Square.
Parton’s work also reached generations of viewers through projects connected to her music, movies and charitable efforts.
2026 Emmys remember entertainment legends
The Dolly Parton tribute was part of a larger In Memoriam segment at the 2026 Emmys.
The ceremony also remembered other major figures from the entertainment industry who died during the previous year. Noah Kahan performed “Bridge Over Troubled Water” during the broader memorial segment, while other stars paid tribute to performers and filmmakers who had died.
The ceremony also featured a tribute to filmmaker Rob Reiner, with Jamie Lee Curtis becoming emotional while remembering the late director and actor.
A fitting farewell to Dolly Parton
For many viewers, McEntire’s performance provided an especially personal farewell to Parton.
The combination of Field’s memories and McEntire’s rendition of one of Parton’s songs highlighted the country legend’s influence on friends, colleagues and generations of fans.
Parton’s death left a major void in country music and Hollywood, but the Emmy tribute underscored how her legacy continues through the music she created, the people she inspired and the charitable work she championed.
As McEntire’s performance ended, the message was clear: Dolly Parton’s influence will remain deeply woven into American music and entertainment for generations to come.
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