'Family matters most': Dolly Parton puts career on hold as husband Carl Dean's Alzheimer's battle worsens
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Dolly Parton, 77, is reportedly pausing her career to take care of her ailing husband Carl Dean. The couple has been married for almost 60 years.
The 81-year-old Dean has reportedly been battling Alzheimer's for a number of years.
Dolly Parton has chosen to take a step back
"Dolly has long been a fixture on the touring circuit, but as her husband's health takes precedence, she has chosen to take a step back from the stage to focus on what matters most – family," an insider told the National Enquirer.
"She wants to make sure they enjoy every last minute they have together," the insider added.
Despite captivating audiences for decades, the 'Jolene' singer's marriage and personal life have stayed mostly hidden. While Dean has stayed out of the spotlight and given little information about himself to the fans of the blonde bombshell, his wife has amassed an incredible $650 million fortune from her country music hits.
Parton and Dean got married in 1966
The couple got married in 1966, when Parton was only 20 and Dean 23, as reported by Radar Online.
In 2019, it was reported that Dean, who had a history of heart issues and elevated blood pressure, received an Alzheimer's diagnosis.
After more than a dozen headline tours and a nomination to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Parton previously stated, "I like to stay a little closer to home with my husband," regarding her decision to slow down.
Quoting insiders, Closer reported in 2022 that Parton is "fiercely private" about her marriage and partner, particularly in light of his medical conditions.
Dean relies on Dolly Parton more and more
The source said, "They’re not as active physically as they once were. Carl’s not jumping in the car and ready for an adventure like he used to be. It’s called slowing down — he relies on Dolly and the staff more these days — but Dolly says it’s better than the alternative."
"We’re getting older now, and I don’t want to be gone for four or five weeks at a time. Something could happen," Parton previously said.
"I would not feel right about that, if I were gone and somebody needed me. Or I would feel bad if I had to leave a tour if somebody got sick at home and needed me and then I had to walk out on the fans," she added.
The insiders said Parton cooks Dean's favorite foods, like chicken and dumplings, and showers him with affection. They also claim Parton has realized that their remaining days are valuable, having spent a lifetime together.