Dolly Parton's Marriage Thrived Despite Late Husband Not Being Biggest Fan of Her Music

Dolly Parton and her late husband Carl Dean shared one of the most enduring marriages in entertainment, even though Dean wasn't a fan of her music. The couple's nearly 60-year-long marriage remained largely private, with Dean shunning the spotlight until his passing on March 3 at the age of 82. Parton is now honoring his memory with a new song, 'If You Hadn't Been There.'

On Instagram, Parton shared her emotions, writing, "I fell in love with Carl Dean when I was 18 years old. We have spent 60 precious and meaningful years together. Like all great love stories, they never end. They live on in memory and song." The song's heartfelt lyrics reflect their journey: "If you hadn't been there, where would I be / Without your trust, love and belief."

Dean’s reclusive nature often fueled rumors that he didn’t exist, but those who were fortunate enough to meet him, like journalist Alanna Nash, described him as "shy and uncomfortable" yet deeply devoted to Parton. Nash recounted her rare 1977 interview at their Nashville home, where Dean reluctantly made an appearance, tending to the fire and looking at Parton "as if she were the only woman in the world." Talk about a Hollywood-worthy love story.

Parton has always been candid about the quirks of their relationship. She once admitted that Dean "loves me good and all, but I’m really not his favorite singer," adding that he preferred bluegrass and hard rock. Despite this, Dean supported her in his own quiet way, recording her TV appearances and celebrating her milestones without stepping into the limelight.

The couple first met at a laundromat in Nashville when Parton was just 18, marrying two years later in a modest ceremony. Dean rarely gave interviews, but he spoke lovingly about their life together during their 50th wedding anniversary in 2016, saying, "My first thought was, 'I'm going to marry that girl.' My second thought was, 'Lord, she’s good-looking.' And that was the day my life began."

Parton’s social media posts over the years offered glimpses into their relationship, often celebrating their love in throwback photos. On Valentine’s Day 2022, she posted a heartfelt message urging fans to "squeeze your loved ones a little tighter today and tell them you love ‘em!"

Following Dean’s passing, Parton expressed gratitude to fans for their support, writing, "Thank you for all the messages, cards, and flowers that you've sent to pay your respects for the loss of my beloved husband Carl. He is in God’s arms now, and I am okay with that. I will always love you." Truly, a love that transcends this world.