Piers Morgan's bizarre Dolly Parton tribute sparks furious backlash
Not everyone is pleased with the way Piers Morgan opted to honour the life of Dolly Parton following her passing this week.
The country music star died on Tuesday (25 August), surrounded by her loved ones, as per a statement shared by her representatives.
They confirmed Parton had endured a 'brief battle' with cancer before her death, aged 80, and was admitted to Vanderbilt University Medical Centre in Nashville the Thursday prior.
"Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched."
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In the days since, hordes of huge-name stars - from fellow singers to Royal Family members, actors to TV presenters - have shared tributes, including controversial media personality Piers Morgan.
The Talk TV host shared a snap of the '9 to 5' star, along with the caption: "RIP Dolly Parton. Never met her, never interviewed her (despite decades of unrequited requests) but thought she was utterly fabulous in every way."
Unsurprisingly, Morgan's blunt description of Parton - as well as the fact he brought himself up just four words in - hasn't gone down too well with several of her biggest fans.
Some jokingly praised Parton for having dismissed Morgan's request to catch up, with one writing: "The greatest possible tribute to Dolly is that she spent many years turning down interview requests from Piers Morgan.
"Rest in power, you absolute queen."
Another gushed: "Dolly was wiser than we all knew."
Others aimed the ex Good Morning Britain frontman for quickly bringing up his own experience.
"You don't have to make it about you; just type rest in peace like the rest of us," one hit out.
Another claimed: "I don't think there's been a bigger self-own in Twitter history here."
Morgan's dubious tribute came after fellow musician Billy Ray Cyrus shared a more heartfelt message.
The Achy Breaky Heart singer wrote: "I have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start. Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TVs, right in our living rooms."
The star, who chose Parton as his daughter, Miley Cyrus' godmother, added: "Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart. I will always love her in the same way… with my whole heart… and I always will."
Miley herself wrote on Wednesday: "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.
"What I KNOW is Dolly would want me to feel it, write a song about it, and then continue and be strong. I have an angel by my side. I always have. One of our last conversations was about music and metamorphosis."
She continued: "I will always love her and want to make her proud. My heart breaks for the world, her family and friends who will miss her deeply. We’re in this loss together, and we will see her in all of the most beautiful things."
Paul McCartney also hailed Parton's songwriting and philanthropy as 'unrivalled in the world of country music'.
US President Donald Trump added: "This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will."
Eminem also described the chart-topper as a 'superstar in every sense', while Beyoncé: "Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious. You taught so many lessons on how to be uniquely oneself. I am grateful for your art, your heart, your generosity, your humour, your entrepreneurship.
"I’m honoured that I had the privilege to work with you. I will treasure that forever."
King Charles III and Queen Camilla also shared joint message on social media, writing: "Remembering the late, great Dolly, who brought joy, comfort and inspiration to so many - including the millions of children given free books through her Imagination Library.
"We will always [heart] you."
Topics: Piers Morgan, Celebrity, US News, Entertainment, UK News
Rhianna Benson