Country music is preparing for one of its most emotional television events of the year as some of the industry’s biggest stars come together to celebrate the extraordinary life and legacy of Dolly Parton. The highly anticipated two-hour special, CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton, promises unforgettable performances, heartfelt memories, and surprise tributes honoring the beloved entertainer who touched millions of lives through her music and generosity.
The special will air live on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Eastern Time on ABC and Disney+. Viewers in the Central Time Zone can tune in at 8:00 p.m., while fans who cannot watch the live broadcast will have another opportunity when the program becomes available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+ the following day.
The celebration will take place at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville, Tennessee, bringing the tribute to the heart of the country music community. The venue will welcome a live audience as performers from multiple generations gather to honor an artist whose influence extended far beyond country music.
The event follows Parton’s passing on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80. Her death brought an outpouring of tributes from musicians, entertainers, and fans around the world, many of whom reflected on the songs, kindness, and unforgettable personality that made her one of the most recognizable figures in entertainment history.
Among the biggest names confirmed to perform are Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire, Lainey Wilson, Brad Paisley, and Vince Gill. Their participation brings together established country music legends and contemporary stars who have helped introduce traditional country sounds to new generations.
The impressive lineup also includes Kelsea Ballerini, Carly Pearce, Ashley McBryde, Ella Langley, Darius Rucker, Little Big Town, Lady A, and Zac Brown. Each performer represents a different part of the musical landscape that Parton helped shape throughout her remarkable career.
Several artists from outside mainstream country music will also participate, reflecting the broad reach of Parton’s influence. Kristen Bell and Kristin Chenoweth are scheduled to perform, while bluegrass and Americana talents including Béla Fleck, Ricky Skaggs, Sierra Hull, Molly Tuttle, and Lukas Nelson will bring additional musical variety to the celebration.
Amy Grant and Kimberly Williams-Paisley have been announced as special guests, and organizers have promised additional surprise tributes from Parton’s friends across the entertainment industry. Although the complete performance order and individual song selections have not been publicly confirmed, the combination of artists suggests an evening filled with memorable interpretations of her best-loved music.
Parton’s extraordinary catalog offers countless possibilities for the tribute. Songs such as “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You” helped establish her as one of the most accomplished songwriters in American music. The television special takes its name from the last of those classics, a song that became an international phenomenon and remains closely associated with her legacy.
However, the program will celebrate much more than Parton’s recording career. Organizers have confirmed that archival footage and personal stories will be incorporated throughout the broadcast, offering viewers a chance to revisit important moments from her life. The tribute will explore her journey from humble beginnings in East Tennessee to becoming a globally recognized singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman, and humanitarian.
One particularly meaningful aspect of the celebration is its connection to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The charitable program, which she launched in 1995, provides free books to young children and has become one of her most enduring contributions outside entertainment. A portion of the event’s proceeds will support the initiative, while Disney is also contributing to its mission of encouraging childhood literacy.
Belmont University will play an additional role in the evening’s festivities. A student ensemble is scheduled to participate in a special performance, reflecting the university’s ongoing educational partnership inspired by Parton’s creativity, entrepreneurship, and artistic accomplishments. The inclusion of young musicians adds a symbolic touch to an event dedicated to someone whose influence continues to inspire future generations.
For fans who want to experience every emotional moment, the date to remember is Wednesday, October 21, at 9 p.m. Eastern on ABC and Disney+, with streaming available the next day. From Carrie Underwood and Reba McEntire to Lainey Wilson and Vince Gill, the extraordinary lineup promises a fitting celebration of Dolly Parton’s remarkable legacy. With live performances, rare memories, and unexpected tributes still to come, the two-hour special is shaping up to be one of country music’s most meaningful television events of 2026.
