Dolly Parton's younger sister Stella issues emotional plea over 'AI garbage' posts

Dolly Parton's sister Stella Parton has issued an emotional plea over 'AI garbage' social media posts.

Taking to Instagram over the weekend, the 77-year-old shared a lengthy text post statement giving fans an update following the loss of the country music icon who died last month (25 August) at the age of 80.

She began: "As most of you who follow my accounts know, I'm an early riser, so here goes during my coffee hour.

"First, let me say thank you to the ones of you who have shown 'genuine' support and love during this time of our family bereavement.

"We will be okay in time, but each of us will grieve in our own personal way."

The American country singer carried on: "Every human being experiences pain and loss in life, and my family is no different.

"Sadly, because of the way our lives have been lived in front of the public, we have no choice but to be subjected to incredible pressure and insensitivity from strangers."

She then called out the 'AI garbage' social media posts that have been shared since Dolly's death, writing: "There is a tremendous amount of AI and endless garbage being posted every day, and it's been challenging to absorb and/or ignore.

"As time passes, those who are in the business of exploiting the loss and tragedies of others on a daily basis will move on to the next stampede of endless misinformation.

"My big sister Dolly would be surprised and delighted by the love her family and she has been shown during this time.

"She loved her fans and the public in general. That is the reason she chose not to express her opinions on a lot of things like politics, religion and individuals in the public eye."

In the second carousel image, the statement continued: "She knew as well as anyone what a negative vortex that could turn into, which is nothing but a huge waste of positive energy.

"My sister was a positive influence on the world into which she was born. She used her music as a tool and a passion to move people in a positive way.

"But her heart was so big and tender toward anyone who felt, as she often felt as a child. The feeling of being told you were less than, undeserving or insignificant were deep wounds on all of us as children."

Stella recalled: "I walked alongside her my entire life and witnessed and experienced many of the same slights and insults, even through this recent loss in our lives.

"Finally, I ask that you show more compassion and wisdom as we move forward in life. Use my sister's life as an example for tolerance and respect toward others.

"It's not about the most clever comments, fake AI garbage or snarky tweets. At the end of the day, or the end of a life, how will you feel about yourself? It's not about what other individuals you will never meet think of you!

"As a footnote here, I am not, nor have I ever tried to be like my sister, even tho we have inherited similar traits as siblings.

"That being said, I've always embraced my own personality and will continue to be myself and express my opinions as I deem appropriate, regardless of what anyone thinks of me.

"It's my right as a human being!"

Stella, who didn't name any names in the call-out, concluded: "Have a happy and safe weekend."

Following Dolly's death last month, many celebrities, fans and public figures alike have shared tributes.

Dolly's goddaughter Miley Cyrus, Sir Elton John, Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Mick Jagger, Taylor Swift and Beyoncé have all detailed Dolly's impact and her legacy, as both a musician and a humanitarian in their respective statements.

US President Trump sparked backlash for his AI tribute to Dolly, which he shared two days after her death (27 August).

The 80-year-old Republican took to Truth Social to share a ‘photo’ of himself with the late 'Jolene' singer.

But after taking a closer look at the picture, which showed Trump and Dolly linking arms and walking together, people quickly realised that it was created using artificial intelligence, made to look like a drawing of the pair.