Conspiracy theories regarding singer and philanthropist Dolly Parton’s death have proliferated online, with claims ranging from satanic rituals to cloning. A prominent theory suggests that her death was caused by 'turbo cancer' linked to the Covid vaccine. However, there is no evidence supporting this claim. Parton, 80, passed away after 'a short battle with cancer,' according to her family. In May, she reported positive responses to treatment related to her immune and digestive systems.
In 2020, Parton donated $1 million to support vaccine research and later filmed herself receiving the vaccine while singing an adapted version of her song 'Jolene.' Recently, several right-wing conspiracy theorists have suggested that the vaccine contributed to her death. Wayne Allyn Root, a far-right radio host, questioned whether Parton was a victim of the Covid vaccine, citing her public support for it.
Toby Rogers from the Brownstone Institute, a think tank opposing Covid restrictions, also implied that the vaccine may have caused her death. The Brownstone Institute was founded by Jeffrey Tucker, who has connections to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a known vaccine skeptic. While Kennedy has not commented on Parton’s death, he has recently blamed Covid lockdowns for measles-related deaths.
Health influencer Valerie Anne Smith posted multiple claims linking the vaccine to Parton’s death, stating she developed severe health issues after vaccination. Travis View, cohost of the QAnon Anonymous podcast, noted that Parton’s popularity made her a target for conspiracy theorists, particularly those opposed to vaccines.
The conspiracy theories extended beyond X (formerly Twitter) to Facebook, where numerous unsubstantiated claims circulated. One popular theory emerged from a video Parton made shortly before her death, thanking Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce for their donation to her charity. Some users alleged that she was making a 'devil horns' gesture in the video, which was widely shared.
Conspiracy theorist David Nino Rodriguez also referenced the video in his show, claiming Parton’s death was prophesied. Mike Rothschild, an author on conspiracy theories, remarked that while there was an outpouring of love for Parton, some theories stemmed from her advocacy for the Covid vaccine and gay rights, reflecting a broader trend of conspiracy thinking online.