Dolly Parton’s niece is opening up about why the singer chose to keep her cancer battle “real private” before her death.
“She never wanted to worry anybody,” Jada Star told Extra on Tuesday, September 1, adding, “So I think it was just a shock.”
Star also got candid about how she’s been doing since Parton’s death on August 25. “It’s been really difficult and very surreal,” she shared. “It’s also been really bittersweet because of this beautiful opportunity we’ve had to see how much the whole world loves her. All of these tributes have helped so much.”
She ended her interview by revealing what she would say to Parton if she could. “I think I would just say thank you so much, and I love you so much,” Star said while tearing up. “And I know you’re OK. We’re going to be OK.”
Parton’s rep confirmed her death at age 80 in a statement last month. “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,” the statement read. “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.”
That same day, a spokesperson for Parton shared that the country icon had a “brief battle with cancer.”
“After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones,” the message read. The type of cancer was not disclosed.
More of Parton’s loved ones have since reacted to her death, including Miley Cyrus, who was her goddaughter.
“The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share. Our most sacred moments were private and they’ll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts,” Cyrus, 33, wrote via Instagram one day after the news broke. “What I KNOW is Dolly would want me to feel it, write a song about it, and then continue on and be strong. I have an angel by my side. I always have. One of our last conversations was about music and metamorphosis. 🦋.”
She added, “I will always love her and want to make her proud. My heart breaks for the world, her family and friends who will miss her deeply. We’re in this loss together and we will see her in all of the most beautiful things. 💖.”
