Dolly Parton Recalls Meeting Queen Elizabeth II In 1977, Which She Said Was One Of Her Life’s Biggest Thrills

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Not many country stars had the opportunity of meeting Queen Elizabeth II, whose seven-decade reign made her the longest-serving monarch in the United Kingdom. And country icon Dolly Parton was one of the lucky few to have met her majesty.

In 1977, Dolly Parton embarked on a magnificent week of appearances and performances. This includes a series of Europe dates at the renowned King’s Theatre in Glasgow, Scotland, for the Royal Variety show as part of Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee celebrations. Little did she know she was about to tick one off her bucket list, courtesy of her then-talent manager, Sandy Galin.

Just when Parton was about to depart for her European dates, Galin revealed that she would be appearing in front of the queen. The news definitely made her jump up and down.

Parton took the stage together with American pop band Jackson 5, Scottish singer Sydney Devine, and British comedian Frankie Howerd. 

But the magic happened after the show when Parton met her majesty and her husband, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. She described the experience as “one of the biggest thrills of my life.” Most especially that she grew up fascinated by the world of kings and queens and princes and princesses that she would only read in books and magazines.

It’s A Moment Dolly Parton Would Treasure Forever

Four decades and a half later, Dolly Parton kicked off a series of heartfelt tributes to Queen Elizabeth II during the highly anticipated Platinum Party at the Palace. “You are more than pearls, and you are more than platinum,” Parton said in her message.

Music, books and more

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• Behind the Seams: My Life in RhinestonesBook · 2023The stories behind her stage outfits, written with Holly George-WarrenSee it on Amazon →
• Dolly Parton’s Favorite Yellow Cake MixBaking · Duncan HinesFrom her Duncan Hines baking lineSee it on Amazon →
• JoleneVinylWith “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You”See it on Amazon →

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In the short clip, eagle-eyed viewers were quick to spot one special photo behind her. Of course, it was none other than the very first time she met her majesty.

Tune in below and watch Dolly Parton’s message to Queen Elizabeth II.