August 6, 1987

The TRUTH about Dolly is - As kind and pleasant as Dolly appears in public – she’s KINDER and MORE STUNNING in person.
The TRUTH about Dolly is – As kind and pleasant as Dolly appears in public – she’s KINDER and MORE STUNNING in person.
Dolly with Alex
Dolly with Alex

The reason Sam and I wound up at Dolly’s niece’s birthday party was that my sister Janet became very good friends with Dolly when she worked as an AD (Assistant Director) on a few of Dolly’s films (9 to 5, Rhinestone). Consequently, my family and I have had the privilege of interacting with Dolly on multiple occasions during the past few decades.

Dolly and Sam at another party
Dolly and Sam at another party

This episode in my diary illustrates this perfectly. Dolly, as host of this party, probably had a million things on her mind, yet she noticed a little girl’s tears and dried them by reaching out in a way that didn’t embarrass or hurt anyone (since the real birthday girl was too young to know it).

Dolly with all three of my children
Dolly with all three of my children

This degree of empathy would be impressive in any human being. In a star of Dolly Parton’s magnitude, it’s astonishing. I’ve met my share of celebrities and can truly attest that Dolly Parton is one of a kind – in the best possible way.

Alex, Sam, Dolly
Alex, Sam, Dolly

I wasn’t at this party, my sister Janet took the kids. When she got up to take photos, Dolly took her place and started to feed Alex. His and her expressions in response are priceless.

Dolly taking over for Janet and helping Alex
Dolly taking over for Janet and feeding Alex