Dolly Parton’s Hollywood Walk of Fame star was vandalized on September 1, 2026, just days after her death at age 80. Crews from the Hollywood Historic Trust immediately began repairs, and a replacement star is scheduled to be unveiled on Friday, September 4.
Timeline of Events
- August 25, 2026: Dolly Parton passes away at age 80. Fans begin leaving flowers, candles, and tributes at her star.
- August 31, 2026: A fan reports scratches on the star, allegedly caused by broken candle glass.
- September 1, 2026:
- Social media videos show the star defaced, with Parton’s name scratched out.
- Flowers and tributes are cleared for scheduled repair work.
- The Hollywood Historic Trust begins restoration, placing a blank red star in preparation for replacement.
- September 4, 2026: A new star honoring Parton will be unveiled.
Details of the Vandalism
- Witness Lore Corona posted a video showing scratches across Parton’s name. She reported that a woman kicked candles and used shards to damage the star, while another man stole flowers.
- The vandalism occurred just minutes before fans arrived to lay flowers.
- The star had already been scheduled for repair due to cracks, making the timing particularly unfortunate.
Restoration & Replacement
- Hollywood Historic Trust and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce are overseeing the repairs.
- A new star is being installed to replace the damaged one, ensuring Parton’s legacy remains intact.
- The unveiling is set for Friday, September 4, 2026, with fans expected to gather for the tribute.
Dolly Parton’s Walk of Fame Legacy
- First star (1984): Awarded during a joint ceremony with Sylvester Stallone.
- Second star (2018): Shared with Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt for their Trio collaboration.
- Her stars have become memorial sites, with fans leaving flowers, notes, and mementos since her passing.
Cultural Impact
The vandalism sparked outrage among fans worldwide, highlighting the deep emotional connection people feel toward Parton. The swift replacement of her star reflects both her enduring legacy and the respect she commands in the entertainment industry.