In the wake of the passing of country music icon Dolly Parton at the age of 80, those who had the privilege of working with her are reflecting on her lasting impact. Among them is Emily Osment, who starred alongside the legend during her memorable guest appearances on the hit Disney Channel series Hannah Montana.
While attending the Warner Bros. Television Group's 78th Primetime Emmy Awards Nominees Celebration, Osment offered a heartfelt tribute to the late star. "Oh man, she was so lovely," the actress recalled. "She was, if not on time, very early, and she always smelled like magnolias. That's what I remember. She smelled really good."
Parton, who was the real-life godmother to series lead Miley Cyrus, appeared in three episodes of the show as the beloved character Aunt Dolly. Osment, who portrayed Miley's loyal best friend Lilly Truscott throughout the show's 2006 to 2011 run, noted that Parton's professionalism and warmth left a lasting impression on the entire cast.
Following the news of Parton's death on August 23, which followed a private battle with cancer, Cyrus shared an emotional tribute on Instagram. "The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share," Cyrus stated. "Our most sacred moments were private, and they’ll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts."
Cyrus continued, "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."