Dolly Parton and her husband, Carl Dean, have been happily married for many years.
Despite their enduring relationship, there have been persistent rumors of extramarital affairs involving Parton and her male collaborators.
Rather than outright denying these speculations, Parton often jokes about them.
However, she recently shared how she would react if Dean ever cheated on her.
Throughout her illustrious career, Parton has faced rumors linking her romantically to various individuals, including Porter Wagoner, Kenny Rogers, Sylvester Stallone, and even her best friend Judy Ogle.
These rumors are fueled by their collaborations, particularly when they perform love songs together.
In her book, “Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics,” Parton addresses these rumors, stating, “I write so many love songs that people say, ‘You must have had affairs.'
I neither admit nor deny anything.
I have lived a full life and experienced intense emotions.”
While Parton firmly denies engaging in physical affairs, she does acknowledge having experienced an “affair of the heart” that left her devastated.
Discussing the topic of affair rumors, Parton reveals that both she and Dean are not the jealous type.
She expresses confidence in her husband's fidelity but admits that she prefers not to know if he were ever unfaithful.
If she were to discover such infidelity, she explains her reaction.
“If he did have an affair, I wouldn't want to know, and he wouldn't want to tell me.
But even if he did, it wouldn't be the end of the world for me,” she candidly told Playboy in 1978.
“I would take responsibility for my role in it.
I might spend a day crying and feeling sorry for myself for the attention, but then I would move on.
Life happens, and emotions can't always be controlled.”
Parton also believes that Dean would react similarly if the situation were reversed.
“He wouldn't want to know either.
I think I would keep it from him,” she admits.
“He would probably be more inclined to tell me first.
He knows I'm not going anywhere.
Regardless of who I meet or any potential affair, no one in this world could ever replace Carl.
I would never lose this man.”
After more than five decades of marriage, Parton and Dean have proven to be a strong and compatible couple.
Despite the stark differences in their public personas, with Parton thriving in the spotlight while Dean prefers a private life, they have managed to make their relationship work.
When asked about the secret to their long-lasting love, Parton playfully responds, “Stay gone!”
She elaborates, explaining that her frequent travels allow them to appreciate each other's company when they are together and cherish the little things they do as a couple.
It is evident that Dolly Parton and Carl Dean share a deep bond that has stood the test of time, remaining unshaken by rumors and speculation.
Their enduring love serves as an inspiration to many, proving that true commitment and understanding can weather any storm that comes their way.
