Dolly Parton received a warm tribute during the 2026 Emmy Awards, bringing together two familiar names from her long career in entertainment. During the ceremony, Sally Field introduced the segment by reflecting on her friendship with Parton and their time working together in the 1989 film Steel Magnolias.

The tribute continued when Reba McEntire took the stage to perform Appalachian Memories, a song Parton originally released in 1983. The performance placed Parton’s country music roots at the center of a moment celebrating her broader impact on American entertainment.

Parton’s career has stretched across music, television and film for more than six decades. Along the way, she has become known for songs including Jolene, 9 to 5 and I Will Always Love You, while also building a substantial acting career.

The Emmy Awards tribute recognized that wide-ranging legacy, with Field representing Parton’s film connections and McEntire highlighting the country music tradition that has remained central to her work.