CNN has apologized to the family of Dolly Parton after mistakenly airing a photo of an impersonator during its report on the country music legend’s death.
The error occurred Tuesday evening on Laura Coates Live at 11 p.m., just hours after news broke that Parton, 80, had died following what her family called a brief battle with cancer. During the broadcast, the network displayed an image intended to accompany the announcement of her passing. Instead of the real Parton, viewers saw Kelly Vohnn, a Las Vegas performer known for impersonating the “Jolene” singer.
The image showed Vohnn attending a screening of the film Song Sung Blue at Brenden Theatres at the Palms Casino Resort. CNN later issued a statement addressing the mix-up. “We regret the error and apologize to the Parton family,” the network said.
Vohnn learned of the mistake shortly after it happened, receiving a flurry of messages from friends who spotted her on national television. “I started getting all these texts in from friends saying that I was on CNN, and I couldn’t believe it,” she said. She added: “I was already heartbroken at losing Dolly because of how much she has given to me as a woman and an artist. But then to see these images of me on screen was just weird.”
Parton’s death was confirmed by representatives who said the singer passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones and close family. Her family released a statement honoring her legacy of generosity and impact. “Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched,” they wrote. “Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand.”
The statement continued: “Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact. After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones.”
The family has since shared funeral plans in a post on Instagram. “At Dolly’s request, a small, private service will be held for immediate family,” they wrote. They encouraged fans and friends worldwide to pay tribute on social media by tagging @DollyParton or leaving a message. The family also requested donations to Parton’s Imagination Library, the charity she founded that provides free books to children across the United States.
In the viral moment that preceded the broadcast error, news of Parton’s death spread rapidly across social media and news platforms on August 25, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans, fellow musicians, and public figures. Among those honoring her was Miley Cyrus, who shared a touching tribute to her “Aunt Dolly” on August 26.
Parton’s funeral service will be private, with public memorials expected to take place through the social media tributes her family has requested.