In this intensely divided moment, one of the few things everyone still seems to agree on is Dolly Parton—but why? That simple question leads to a deeply personal, historical, and musical rethinking of one of America’s great icons. Join us for a 9-part journey into the Dollyverse. Hosted and created by Jad Abumrad and Shima Oliaee.
Listener supported WNYC Studios America from a Dolly's eye view.
Is this.
Quivering mass of irreconcilable contradictions.
I'm gonna be both.
I'm gonna be adored by church ladies and the gays.
Yeah.
The sexuality, the spirituality, sensuality, that's exactly who I am.
She's just a beautiful fountain of goodness.
It's me, 100%.
Dolly is an extractive capitalist.
I always say I give God the credit.
I just want the cash.
In terms of cultural power, I think she's, like, second to Walt Disney.
This is Jedi Bumrad from Radiolab.
And more.
Perfect.
For the last two years, I've been following Dolly Parton around the world, trying to figure out who she is.
You'd be surprised to know who I am.
That's why we're here.
We're trying to find out.