Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Summary
This special edition of NBC Nightly News honors Dolly Parton following her death at age 80, celebrating her music, philanthropy, and cultural impact. Anchor Tom Llamas and guest Carson Daly discuss her legacy, while the broadcast also covers wildfires in Texas and Nevada, a study on CTE in NFL players, and measles deaths in Pennsylvania.
Topics discussed
Sponsor reads: Grooms and AdoptUSKids
Introduction: Dolly Parton's passing and legacy
National mourning and outpouring of grief
Music career: Hits, Grammys, and '9 to 5'
Early life, 'Coat of Many Colors,' and songwriting
Philanthropy, health struggles, and recent projects
Fan reactions and tributes from celebrities
Deep dive: Imagination Library and disaster relief
Carson Daly on Dolly's cultural impact and business
Sponsor reads: Ozempic, Grooms, and AdoptUSKids
Wildfires in Texas and Reno: Evacuations and damage
NFL study reveals high rates of CTE in players
Sponsor reads: Ozempic, Grooms, and AdoptUSKids
Measles deaths, Canada tariffs, and CIA Moscow trip
Dolly Parton's humor, wisdom, and final tribute
Sponsor read: Angie home services
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