CNN is apologizing to Dolly Parton’s family after the news network accidentally used a picture of a Las Vegas impersonator while covering the iconic singer’s death.
“We regret the error and apologize to the Parton family,” CNN said in a statement to The New York Post on Thursday, August 27.
The network broadcasted the image of artist Kelly Vohnn while covering Parton’s death at the age of 80 on Tuesday, August 25, during “Laura Coates Live.”
Vohnn shared that the photo was taken in December 2025, when she walked the red carpet at a Las Vegas screening of the film Song Sung Blue.
“I started getting all these texts in from friends saying that I was on CNN, and I couldn’t believe it,” Vohnn told The Post on Thursday. “I was already heartbroken at losing Dolly because of how much she has given to me as a woman and an artist.”
She continued, “But then to see these images of me on screen was just weird.”
Vohnn shared that she has “never represented” herself as being Parton in her life, but that she has “always been known as a tribute act for her” and other stars.
“I thought about calling CNN, but was really consumed by the grief of losing Dolly [and] I just wanted to be at home with my thoughts, raising a glass of wine to that brilliant woman,” she explained.
News broke on Tuesday that Parton died after a brief battle with an undisclosed form of cancer.
Parton’s rep shared that a “small, private service will be held for immediate family” in the coming days, while her “fans and friends from around the world are encouraged to pay tribute to Dolly” on social media and her website, per the singer’s request. In lieu of flowers, the family asked for donations to be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
“Global icon and humanitarian, Dolly Parton, known to the world as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright and author died peacefully today in Nashville, Tennessee,” read a statement from Parton’s rep. “A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth and kindness that made us all feel like family.”
The statement continued, “Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”
