One of the world’s most recognisable landmarks has paid tribute to Dolly Parton following her death at the age of 80.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!New York City’s Empire State Building was illuminated in sparkling pink lights in memory of the country music legend, with even the timing carrying a special reference to her career.
The building’s tower lights switched to their pink display at precisely 9:25pm – a nod to Parton’s famous song and film 9 to 5.
The Empire State Building’s official account announced the tribute ahead of the display, writing: “Tonight, the Empire State Building tower lights will turn to a pink sparkle at 9:25 to honor the late Dolly Parton.”
Emphasising’s Parton’s enduring legacy, officials continued: “Dolly was a global cultural icon whose seven-decade career reached generations of fans. Beyond entertainment, Dolly leaves a significant philanthropic legacy through the Dollywood Foundation and Imagination Library, which has provided hundreds of millions of books to children worldwide.
“At Nine-Two-Five tonight, we celebrate her and her legacy.”
Footage subsequently shared online showed the upper section of the famous Manhattan skyscraper glowing pink against the nighttime New York skyline.
The gesture came following the announcement that Parton had died peacefully in Nashville, Tennessee, aged 80.
A statement posted to Parton’s official Instagram account announced her death and reflected on both her extraordinary career and her work away from entertainment.
It read: “Global icon and humanitarian, Dolly Parton, known to the world as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright, and author died peacefully today in Nashville, Tennessee. She was 80 years old.
“Dolly is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years Carl Thomas Dean (1942 – 2025), her mother Avie Lee Caroline Owens (1923 – 2003), and father, Robert Lee Parton, Sr. (1921 – 2000).
“A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family. Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
“Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”
Parton’s family also confirmed that, in accordance with her wishes, a small private service would be held for immediate relatives.
Fans and friends around the world were encouraged to share their own tributes on social media, while the family requested donations to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in place of flowers.
The Empire State Building’s tribute quickly attracted emotional reactions online.
One person reflected on the journey from Parton’s humble beginnings to seeing one of America’s defining landmarks illuminated in her memory.
They wrote: “Only in America can you be born poor in a cabin in the Great Smokies and in death have the most iconic building in NYC lit in your honor!”
Another simply described the display as: “What a excellent tribute ro the late Dolly Parton!”
A third person wrote: “Dolly spent her life making the world brighter, and now one of the most famous skylines in the world returned the favor. Even New York had to put on some light for her. Rest easy, Dolly.”
Others also took to social media to share their view of the iconic building as they paid tribute to one of the most beloved entertainers to ever live:
The pink illumination added to the tributes following news of Parton’s death, while also finding a way to incorporate one of the most instantly recognisable parts of her career.
Her 9 to 5 connection stretches beyond the song itself, with Parton also starring in the film of the same name.
For the Empire State Building, that provided the inspiration for a particularly fitting piece of timing.
Featured image credit: X
