Dolly Parton’s nephew Bryan Seaver claims that threatening text messages involved in his legal battle with Parton’s business associates were taken out of context. He asserts that the messages were private exchanges with a friend regarding a business dispute. In a recent court filing, Seaver, 49, contends that Danny Nozell, Parton’s longtime manager, encouraged him to publicize his military background before later using similar messages as evidence of threatening behavior. Seaver states that Nozell suggested he promote his background as an arms dealer and mercenary.
Seaver acknowledges using profane language in the messages, including threats to 'destroy Dolly’s brand partnerships,' but clarifies that he was referring to damaging business relationships rather than physical harm. The messages were reportedly sent in the weeks surrounding Parton’s death on August 25.
Seaver claims the dispute is partly due to an outstanding payment of approximately $251,000 owed to his security company, Squadron Augmented Protection Services, for work at Parton’s properties. He also alleges that complaints about conditions at Parton’s SongTeller Hotel contributed to the conflict, citing issues such as guards allegedly smoking marijuana and sleeping on duty, as well as construction delays and unfinished fire-system inspections.
Seaver states that Parton was aware of his efforts to address these issues with Herschend Family Entertainment, which operates the hotel and Dollywood, and supported him. He included a letter from Parton dated November 11, 2024, recommending his company for security work, describing Seaver’s personnel as 'very professional, very discreet, and very good at what they do.' Parton also referred to him as the longtime head of her security and requested the hotel’s leadership to consult with him before finalizing security arrangements.
Seaver claims that Nozell continued to communicate with him amicably after the texts now cited as threats, even discussing a potential podcast interview on 'The Joe Rogan Experience.' He disputes allegations that his communications led to an estate attorney withdrawing from representing the trust, stating that Nozell informed him on September 10 that both estate attorneys had quit without explanation, and that the bank was 'taking everything over.'
She’s Alive LLC, the estate management company overseeing Parton’s catalog and commercial affairs, sought a restraining order against Seaver and his company following the termination of his security contract in September, alleging that his conduct threatened its business relationships and personnel. Seaver argues that the requested restrictions are overly broad, potentially preventing him from being within 1,000 feet of individuals with business ties to She’s Alive LLC, including relatives connected to Parton’s businesses.
Seaver also claims the dispute has attracted unwanted media attention, stating that reporters have approached his family members and visited his home. He mentions that his son placed barbed wire across their front steps to deter visitors and that a magnetized camera was discovered near their home, though he does not know who placed it.
Seaver is requesting the court to deny She’s Alive LLC’s bid to extend the temporary restraining order and to issue a temporary injunction. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for October 20.