Ricky Schroder is facing backlash over a tribute to Dolly Parton that critics called tasteless and self-serving.
The 55-year-old actor, who portrayed Parton’s father in two 2015-2016 television movies, posted on Instagram after news broke that the country icon had died on August 25 following what her management described as a brief battle with cancer. Rather than a straightforward memorial, Schroder used the occasion to highlight his political disagreements with the beloved singer.
He shared an image of himself with Parton that was flagged for AI content, alongside a caption that read: “I didnt [sic] agree with her advocating for Transgender & Covid Vaccine support…but Loved her anyway.”
“Thank you for choosing me Dolly to be your Movie Daddy,” he added.
The post was swiftly met with outrage across social media as users questioned why Schroder had chosen to make the moment about his own views. “Why bring up what you didn’t like?” one user asked. Another wrote: “Why even bring that up? Just honour her!”
Celebrities joined the chorus of criticism. Katie Couric simply wrote “Ick” on Threads, while Boy George fired back: “Oh shut up.” Actor Jay Huguley added: “‘I loved her anyway’ what a strange tribute. Good Lord.”
Other Instagram users told Schroder directly that his post missed the mark. “Don’t make it about you or politics. It’s not a tribute but a statement about you. Why bother?” one commenter wrote. Another shared: “It was somewhat disrespectful to bring up your disagreements.”
While some users did express agreement with Schroder’s political stance, the overwhelming response suggested that many felt the timing and framing were inappropriate for mourning a figure who had just died.
Parton, 80, had long been celebrated for her charitable work and advocacy, including her Imagination Library providing free books to children across five countries and her $1 million donation to Vanderbilt University Medical Center that helped fund the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. She had also been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ equality throughout her career.
In the viral moment that sparked the controversy, Schroder’s post stood in stark contrast to the flood of genuine tributes from fellow stars. Jane Fonda, Parton’s “9 to 5” co-star, issued a statement specifically addressing marginalized fans: “To her gay and trans fans, I want you to know that she loved you.”
Parton’s goddaughter, Miley Cyrus, wrote on Instagram about their private bond: “The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share. Our most sacred moments were private and they’ll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts.”
Taylor Swift also paid homage, posting: “A world without Dolly doesn’t feel possible, real, or right. But because of the eternally generous way she spent her time on this earth and the countless lives she changed for the better, her legacy will be an everlasting one.”
Even Eminem, who had never met Parton, shared a handwritten note she sent him in 2022 congratulating him on his Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, in which she wrote: “Even though I don’t know a lot about rap music, I’ve come to know that you are the very best at it.”
President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that he was lowering American flags for one week in Parton’s honor, calling her “one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER.”
The outlet Group has contacted Schroder for comment.