Dolly Parton Forced To Miss Dollywood Event Because Of A Kidney Stone: “It Was Causing Me A Lot Of Problems”

Gotta take care of herself.

It’s not like Dolly Parton to take a day off, but sometimes you have to prioritize your health over work. Yesterday, Wednesday, September 17, Dolly Parton’s Pigeon Forge theme park announced its new Night Flight Expedition ride with an on-site event.

However, the face behind the theme park was not in attendance at the event, which is out of character for the 79-year-old singer, who is often present at other big announcements for Dollywood.

However, Dolly’s absence from the announcement was not without good reason. Parton shared in a pre-recorded video with park attendees why she was not able to attend the attraction announcement.

“Hello Dollywood! It’s me. I know… I’m here, and you’re there. And you’re wondering why that is? Well, I had a little problem.

I had a kidney stone that was causing me a lot of problems. Turned out it’d given me an infection, and the doctor said, ‘You don’t need to be traveling right this minute, so you need a few days to get better.’

So, he suggested I not go to Dollywood today, but I’m there with you in spirit. I was looking so forward to it.”

Parton then shares a little bit about the upcoming attraction, noting that they have been working on it for the last three years.

For the last three years, Eugene, Timmy and I have been working on this wonderful Night Flight Expedition. And it’s something that they tell you, but there’s nothing like it in the whole wide world. Certain not in East Tennessee. 

They say it’s the most expensive thing we’ve ever done. So, better be good.”

The crowd chuckles at that joke.

“I usually don’t ride the rides, but this one sounds so magical, I might just check that one out. But seriously, I did want to say again I’m sorry that I can’t be there in person, but you have a great time today.” 

Parton closed her message with reassurance that she will be back soon, but couldn’t make it out to Pigeon Forge yesterday.

Dollywood’s new attraction, the Night Flight Expedition, appears to be a fully immersive experience, with a preview for the ride indicating it will open in 2026.

“NightFlight Expedition – coming 2026!

What happens in the Smoky Mountains after the sun goes down? Soar, plunge, climb and navigate the first ride of its kind in the world.”

Dolly Parton’s team goes all in on their rides, making them full of life and making the theme of each attraction a one-of-a-kind experience. Just like all of the park’s existing attractions, the Night Flight Expedition seems like it will be extraordinary.

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The post Dolly Parton Forced To Miss Dollywood Event Because Of A Kidney Stone: “It Was Causing Me A Lot Of Problems” first appeared on Whiskey Riff.