Dollywood rival theme park apologises for 'distasteful' post following Dolly Parton's death
The rival of the Dollywood theme park, co-owned by the late Dolly Parton, has issued an apology over an ‘insensitive’ social media post after her death.
The country music star died after a 'brief battle with cancer' aged 80 on Tuesday (25 August).
Following her death, Hersheypark, the 121-acre family amusement park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, responded to a fan praising Dollywood’s affordable ticket prices on X.
“And she kept the prices reasonable in this economy,” the user wrote above a screenshot of Dollywood’s $99 one-day ticket prices.
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Hersheypark then replied in a now-deleted comment: “Our summer tickets are $49.99.”
X users questioned the tweet, asking: “Are you guys going to offer an official apology for this TACTLESS post or keep on ignoring it?”
“We certainly respect your concern,” the park’s official X account wrote back.
“A reply clarifying our ticket price in another conversation was posted without seeing the context of the chain, so we removed it quickly to avoid any confusion or insensitivity over intent. We absolutely apologize for the error.”
Another added: “This is such a big yikes….like I’m shocked.”
In a statement shared with PEOPLE, Hersheypark apologised for the tweet, saying it was misinterpreted.
“We join the millions mourning the loss of Dolly Parton, whose generosity, talent and spirit touched so many,” the park said.
“A member of our social media team noticed inaccurate pricing information about Hersheypark within a post and intended to respond directly just to that individual to correct it, not realizing the reply would appear as a response to a conversation about Dollywood.
“It was removed as soon as we recognized the context. We sincerely apologize for any insensitivity.”
The outlet confirmed a day after Parton’s death that her theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee would remain open, as she requested.
“Dollywood will be open Wednesday as Dolly wanted, always reminding everyone with her signature sparkle — ‘the show must go on’,” a statement from the park read.
Dollywood, co-owned by Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment, features over 50 rides, including roller coasters like Thunderhead, Wild Eagle, and Big Bear Mountain.
It is said to celebrate the heritage of the Smoky Mountains with artisan crafts, live bluegrass and country music and southern-style dining.
The area also includes Dollywood's Splash Country water park and Dollywood's DreamMore Resort & Spa.
Celebrities who have paid tribute to Dolly Parton
Miley Cyrus
Parton's goddaughter wrote on Instagram: "The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share. Our most sacred moments were private and they’ll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts.
"What I KNOW is Dolly would want me to feel it, write a song about it, and then continue on and be strong. I have an angel by my side. I always have. One of our last conversations was about music and metamorphosis.
"I will always love her and want to make her proud. My heart breaks for the world, her family and friends who will miss her deeply. We’re in this loss together and we will see her in all of the most beautiful things."
Donald Trump
The US president wrote on Truth Social: "Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away.
"This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will.
"In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you."
Taylor Swift
Parton had previously praised Swift as a 'great inspiration', and the billionaire songstress wrote a touching tribute for the country icon.
She wrote: "A world without Dolly doesn’t feel possible, real, or right. But because of the eternally generous way she spent her time on this earth and the countless lives she changed for the better, her legacy will be an everlasting one.
“She was truly the gift that kept on giving. Dolly gave us someone to look up to while encouraging us to be who we are as individuals. Somehow she was able to give us her lessons about the world gently and honestly, simultaneously, and oftentimes hilariously.
"She managed to give the world the ultimate mystery and fantasy in some corners of her life, but to give full transparency in the ways that counted.
"Somehow she was true grace and true grit, all in one dazzling person. She possessed the softest heart when it came to the struggles of others, and a backbone of steel to defend her own self worth as an artist.
“Along with her other fans, I am so grateful for all of it. For the melodies and lyrics she wrote that thawed even the coldest hearts. For the millions of books she provided children all over the world so that they might fall in love with stories the way she did. For the tightropes she walked so that young girls like me could grow up dreaming of joining the circus too.
“Dolly, I’ll think of you each step of the way."
Beyoncé
The singer, who created her own version of 'Jolene' back in 2024, wrote: "Dolly, you were the barometer. The north star. Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious. You taught so many lessons on how to be uniquely oneself.
"I am grateful for your art, your heart, your generosity, your humour, your entrepreneurship. I’m honoured that I had the privilege to work with you. I will treasure that forever.
"Thank you for your profound impact on the world. You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art. You are truly one of one. Rest peacefully.”
Eminem
The 'Real Slim Shady' rapper shared a note from Parton congratulating him on his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame back in 2022.
Parton wrote in the note: "Even though I don't know a lot about rap music, I've come to know that you are the very best at it.
"I have always felt some unexplained connection to you like I know you somehow.
"Just know you are very special and touch people in ways you don't even know."
Eminem wrote: "I’m sorry we never got a chance to meet, but getting this note from Dolly really had an impact on me. She definitely didn’t have to take the time to do it.
"Even for a kid who mostly listened to rap music, she was an icon. A superstar in every sense.
"Rest easy Dolly. And thank you for the kind words."
Topics: Dolly Parton, Celebrity, Theme Park
Anish Vij