Dolly Parton Missing Old Pal Reba McEntire ‘Terribly’ Amid Isolating Health Woes (Exclusive)

Dolly Parton fancies more quality time with Reba McEntire, a source tells Examiner.

Recent medical issues have kept the “Jolene” singer mostly homebound since September, according to the source, and her longtime friend’s schedule has been too packed to visit.

The 70-year-old Voice judge — who wrapped season 28 in December — is set to film season 3 of Happy’s Place while planning a wedding with costar Rex Linn and continuing to perform music onstage.

“It’s just not logistically possible for Reba to see Dolly much right now,” says the source. “Reba checks in a lot, but Dolly wishes they could find a way to hang out. She misses Reba terribly.”

Six months ago, Parton announced she was dealing with a kidney stone — as well as a resulting infection — People reported, before later revealing on Facebook that she would be postponing concert dates because doctors were ordering her to “have a few procedures” amid “some health challenges.”

While sightings of the country music icon, 80, have been rare from that point on, she did break cover to mark the 41st anniversary of her Tennessee theme park, Dollywood, on Friday, March 13.

During her speech at the event, Parton admitted to feeling “worn down and worn out” and dealing with “health issues” following the death of beloved husband Carl Dean on March 3, 2025, per People.

The couple had been married for 58 years prior to his passing at age 82.

“Dolly has been getting out more lately, taking local trips,” notes the source. “For the most part, though, she just sees her caretakers and family.”