Miley Cyrus issues emotional tribute to godmother Dolly Parton

Pop star Miley Cyrus has paid tribute to her godmother, country star Dolly Parton, following her death aged 80.

A video shared on Dolly Parton’s Instagram page announced her death, with her nephew Bryan Seaver paying tribute to her.

Taking to Instagram, Miley wrote: "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."

In 2012 during the Backyard Sessions, Miley recorded a cover of Dolly’s famous hit Jolene, and in 2021 Miley wrote the citation for her famous godmother when she was listed among Time’s 100 Most Influential People.

Miley, who was 28 at the time, wrote: "Have you ever met anyone who doesn't love Dolly Parton? I never have. Dolly is not only my idol because of her incomparable career - she's also my role model because of her steadfast morals and values. At her core, she is the definition of a humanitarian."

More to follow.