South Africa, Aug. 28 -- Her image was distinctive. Her voice was unmistakable. Her humour became part of her public persona. And she built a career that stretched from country music into film, television, business, publishing, theme parks and philanthropy.

Parton died on 25 August 2026 at the age of 80, leaving behind something few entertainers manage to create: a brand that exists far beyond the person at its centre.

Here are five moments that help explain how Parton became one of the most enduring brands in entertainment.

1. Barbara Walters and the Dolly image

Parton wasn't interested in being fashionable. She wanted to be memorable.

In her 1977 interview with Barbara Walters, Parton spoke about the look she had deliberately creat...