Reba McEntire found a way to honor Dolly Parton by dedicating an episode of Happy’s Place to her late friend.
“When we were filming that episode, it was the week when Dolly passed,” McEntire, 71, exclusively told Us about the Friday, October 30, episode of the show. “So I had asked if we could dedicate the show to Dolly, and everybody said yes. That was an absolutely wonderful episode.”
McEntire’s costar — and real-life fiancé, Rex Linn — recalled when they learned about Parton’s death.
“When Dolly passed that night, we had maybe our best live show. Before we were on our way to work, Reba was responding to so many texts. Reba and Dolly were really close, and she got sad in the car, so I said, ‘We got Dolly with us tonight,’” Linn recalled. “That night we had a rock ‘n’ roll show, and Reba even brought it up. She said, ‘We’re going to dedicate this show to Dolly tonight.’ We were running on all cylinders. The crowd was going crazy. So we know that she was with us. It was pretty cool.”
Parton’s rep confirmed her death via a statement in August.
“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.”
The statement continued: “Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”
Parton’s rep later revealed that she died “after bravely facing a brief battle with cancer.”
As McEntire mourned her friend, the cast of Happy’s Place was honored to celebrate Parton’s “joy” with their show. McEntire recalled previously finding an opportunity to share the screen with Parton on her Reba sitcom.
“I remember sitting on the couch with her in between takes, and I said, ‘Dolly, are you ever going to retire?’ She said, ‘Where could I find a better job than what I’m getting to do now? No, I don’t see me slowing down,’” the singer recalled. “And she was true to her word. She was working on the day she died.”
Melissa Peterman, who also appeared on Reba, gushed over getting to work with Parton.
“She was so warm. She was up for anything. She came to play and was so generous with her time,” she told Us. “She just took time to make everyone feel so special, and that was just lovely.”
Happy’s Place airs on NBC Fridays at 8 p.m. ET before streaming the next day on Peacock.
