Weeks after the passing of country music icon Dolly Parton at the age of 80, Hannah Montana star Emily Osment is reflecting on her time working alongside the legendary performer on the hit Disney Channel series. The two shared the screen during Parton's guest appearances as Aunt Dolly, the beloved godmother to Miley Cyrus' character, Miley Stewart.
While attending the Warner Bros. Television Group's 78th Primetime Emmy Awards Nominees Celebration, Osment offered a warm tribute to the late star. "Oh man, she was so lovely," Osment 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's influence on the show was significant, appearing in three episodes throughout the series' run from 2006 to 2011. For Osment, who played Miley's loyal best friend Lilly Truscott, the experience of working with such a monumental figure in entertainment left a lasting impression. Parton, who passed away on August 23 following a private battle with cancer, remained a cherished figure to the cast and crew.
Following the news of Parton's death, Miley Cyrus shared an emotional tribute on social media, emphasizing the private bond they shared away from the spotlight. "The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share," Cyrus wrote. "Our most sacred moments were private, and they’ll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts."
Cyrus noted that she intends to honor Parton's legacy by continuing to create music and remaining strong, just as her godmother would have wanted. "I will always love her and want to make her proud," Cyrus added. "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."