Dolly Parton issues health update in first public appearance in months

Legendary musician Dolly Parton has issued an update on her health after making her first public appearance in months.

The 80-year-old, who wasn't seen at her own birthday concert back in January and was forced to cancel concerts in Las Vegas last year, appeared to be in good spirits during Dollywood's 41st season opening day celebration on Friday.

Parton tragically lost her husband Carl Dean in March last year after more than 60 years together, and it was always going to take the 9 to 5 singer some time to get back on her feet.

Despite admitting that health challenges were the reason behind her cancelled shows in September, Parton has maintained her high spirits and even laughed off a disturbing AI video of her on her deathbed.

Speaking with Eugene Naughton - the president of Dollywood Parks & Resorts - she gave the crowd, per WLOS News 13, an important update on how she is doing after such a challenging year.

She said: "I've been up to a lot. I've not been touring, as you know. I've had a few little health issues, and we're taking good care of them."

Parton has taken some time away from the spotlight recently (Jason Kempin/Getty Images)

She then spoke more about losing her soulmate, saying: "I just kind of got worn down and worn out, grieving over Carl and a lot of other little things going on.

"I just got myself kind of where I needed to build myself back up spiritually, emotionally, and physically. But, all is good. It didn't slow me down."

Despite the immense grief she must be feeling, after more than six decades with the same partner, Parton's sense of humour clearly isn't going anywhere because she also joked with the crowd about Naughton being her new husband, before clarifying that she's not dating anybody.

"I think Carl Dean's waiting for me,' Parton expressed. "If I should show up at the pearly gates with somebody else, he would not like that.

"He'd be saying, 'Who's that little pi**er? You leave him outside the gates'," she joked.

Dolly was married to Carl Dean for 60 years ((Instagram/Dolly Parton)

Concerns had been sparked for the country music star after she admitted that she needed to postpone some concerts in Las Vegas due to some 'health challenges', while her sister Freida later asked for 'prayers' in October of last year.

Although she later admitted that she hadn't looked after herself as well as she could have done after losing her husband, she has no plans to quit the music industry just yet.

She said: "And don't worry about me quittin' the business because God hasn't said anything about stopping yet.

"But, I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you. I love you and thank you for understanding."