Country music icon Dolly Parton has recently revealed some deeply personal struggles within her 51-year marriage to Carl Dean.
In her new book, “Dolly on Dolly: Interviews and Encounters with Dolly Parton,” the 71-year-old star opens up about a heartbreaking affair that pushed her to the brink of suicide, as reported by The Daily Mail.
Parton recounts a moment of despair in the late '80s when she found herself alone in her bedroom, contemplating taking her own life.
She noticed her gun, which she keeps for protection, in the nightstand drawer and considered ending it all.
It was in this critical moment that her beloved dog, Popeye, came bounding up the stairs, his paws tapping on the floor.
The sound snapped her back to reality, and she believes it was a divine intervention.
The affair, described as an “affair of the heart,” is not explicitly named in the book, but rumors have long circulated that it involved Gregg Perry, her band leader during the production of “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” in 1982.
Parton admits that although she doesn't think she would have gone through with suicide, she now understands the depths of despair that can drive someone to such drastic measures.
Despite the turmoil, Parton and Dean's marriage endured.
They have been together since 1966 and maintain what Parton describes as an “open and free” relationship.
Their unique dynamic allows them the freedom to explore their individual desires while remaining committed to each other.
In her book, Parton affectionately refers to Dean as “Daddy,” while he playfully calls her “Mama,” “Little Kid,” or “Angel Cakes.”
Their love and connection have stood the test of time, and Parton admits that she would be devastated if Dean were to ever leave her.
Parton's book also delves into her humble beginnings in Tennessee, where she grew up as the oldest of twelve children in a poverty-stricken household near the Smoky Mountains.
She candidly shares how she learned about s** from her older uncles and cousins at an early age, and how she always had an open-minded and positive view of it.
She emphasizes that her experiences with s** have always been enjoyable and empowering.
With no biological children of her own, Parton has embraced her role as godmother to pop star Miley Cyrus.
Her influence on the country music scene is unparalleled, and she held the record for the most Grammy nominations by a female artist with 47.
Dolly Parton's story is one of resilience and triumph over personal struggles.
Despite facing heartbreak and contemplating suicide, she found strength and solace in the love of her loyal dog and the unwavering support of her husband.
Her openness about her past and her unique approach to marriage inspire others to embrace their own complexities and find happiness on their own terms.
