Pivot · Friday, August 28, 2026
The discussion touched upon Dolly Parton's long-standing support for the LGBTQ+ community, noting her choice of Melissa Etheridge for a duet in 2003 during the height of the gay marriage debate. This action is seen as a significant statement of support, decades before it was common for celebrities to openly advocate for such causes.
“And Melissa said for her to be invited in that moment to share the stage with her was so special and so meaningful to her. And obviously she spoke up for the gay community so much throughout her career, decades before it was, you know, invoked to do something for for a celebrity.”
“I think she knew exactly what she was doing. You know what I mean? I think she understood her, who she was, and she had conducted her career that way.”