Miley Cyrus became emotional while paying tribute to her late godmother, Dolly Parton, during her Hollywood Bowl concert in Los Angeles on Friday, October 16. The singer fought back tears as she reflected on their lifelong relationship before performing Parton’s country classic, Jolene.
The tribute came during Cyrus’ first major concert in nearly four years, less than two months after Parton’s death on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80.
Miley Cyrus Recalls a Special Memory With Dolly Parton
Addressing the audience, Cyrus revealed that the Hollywood Bowl held particular significance because it was the only venue where she had watched Parton perform live.
She recalled asking her godmother if she could attend that concert as an ordinary audience member rather than joining her onstage. Although Parton initially agreed, she had other plans.
The country legend opened her performance with The Best of Both Worlds, the theme song from Cyrus’ Disney Channel series Hannah Montana, before announcing that her goddaughter was sitting in the audience.
Looking back, Cyrus explained that the memory had become even more meaningful following Parton’s death.
“Me and Dolly, we are eternal. Nothing in this life could ever tear us apart,” she told the audience.
Growing increasingly emotional, Cyrus added that she looked forward to seeing Parton again and deeply missed her.
Miley Cyrus Performs Jolene in Emotional Tribute
Following her speech, Cyrus performed Jolene, one of Parton’s most celebrated recordings.
Later in the concert, she also sang Wrecking Ball while holding a heart-shaped photograph of her godmother. According to Cyrus, the 2013 hit was Parton’s favorite song from her catalog.
Their musical connection extended beyond family ties. Parton appeared as Aunt Dolly on Hannah Montana, and the two collaborated on a new version of Wrecking Ball for Parton’s 2023 album Rockstar.
Hollywood Bowl Show Marks Miley Cyrus’ Return
The emotional tribute was part of Cyrus’ two-night Hollywood Bowl engagement supporting her tenth studio album, Bass Persuades, released in September.
Her October 16 performance featured songs including The Climb, We Can’t Stop and Party in the U.S.A., alongside newer material.
Cyrus also spoke about finding balance between performing and her personal life after stepping away from major concerts.
For a singer beginning another chapter of her career, honoring Parton at the very venue where she once watched her godmother perform brought their musical history full circle.
