Rumors have swirled about their possible romantic relationship over the years.
There is no denying the strong bond between Dolly Parton and Billy Ray Cyrus, which extends beyond their shared appreciation of country music. As the godmother of Cyrus’ daughter Miley, Parton has been a significant figure in their lives.
But as time has gone on, suspicions of a love relationship between the two musicians have persisted, causing fans to wonder if the claims are true. Recently, Parton and Cyrus both clarified the facts in a joint interview about their relationship.
They met while Cyrus was just beginning his career in the entertainment industry, and their relationship has been a constant ever since then. The famous Parton comforted and encouraged Cyrus as he struggled to make ends meet and looked for a record contract.
Cyrus voiced his appreciation for Parton in a conversation with Closer Weekly, admitting that without her support, he would not have found the success he does now, saying, “I love Dolly. I probably wouldn’t be doing what I’m doing without her.”
“Keep in mind, she was there in 1992 when I went from living in my Chevy Beretta to recording my first album. Pretty soon after that, I was opening her shows! She sent a letter to my dressing room, and we just bonded from that night on.”
Their work together on the famous song “Romeo” from 1993 only helped to further the rumors of a romantic relationship. Their on-screen connection fueled allegations of a genuine romance as they played lovers who met at a bar in the music video.
Cyrus admitted that during their time touring together, he confronted Parton about the persistent rumors. He described how he felt forced to apologize to her during their first in-person encounter for the rumors that they were together romantically.
However, Parton’s response caught Cyrus off guard and revealed her practical attitude to the circumstance. “Dolly looked me straight in the eyes and said, ‘Honey, that s*** sells records!” he recalled.
“Next thing I knew, [my 1992 debut] ‘Some Gave All’ was No. 1 for 17 weeks in a row!” he added. “Who would’ve guessed that Dolly would have ended up as one of my best friends and [daughter Miley Cyrus’] godmother?”
Parton’s reaction demonstrated her awareness of the music industry’s propensity for controversy and how it may pique attention among the general public and increase album sales. Cyrus realized that their relationship and the rumors about them had unintentionally helped him succeed.
Although both artists deny having a romantic relationship, they have found love and long-lasting relationships with other people. Since 1966, Parton has been wed to her longtime partner Carl Thomas Dean, who has been the renowned singer’s go-to supporter throughout her career despite his preference to avoid the spotlight.
Meanwhile, Cyrus has had his share of romantic relationships. He was previously married to Cindy Smith from 1986 to 1991 and Tish Finley from 1993 to 2022. Currently engaged to Firerose, Cyrus continues to explore his personal and professional endeavors.
The relationship between Parton and Cyrus is still solid despite the passage of time. In 2020, they once again worked together, releasing the song “Christmas Where We Are” off Parton’s holiday album, “A Holly Dolly Christmas.” This collaboration bears witness to their lasting friendship and mutual love of music.
Dolly Parton and Billy Ray Cyrus have made it quite apparent that their relationship is more solid than any rumors may imply, despite the ongoing claims of their romantic involvement. They have a long history of assisting one another in both their professional and personal endeavors, demonstrating to their admirers the endurance of real friendship.