Introduction
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced that Dolly Parton will receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, an honorary Oscar recognizing her extraordinary contributions to humanity. The award will be presented at the 2025 Governors Awards on November 16, 2025, in Hollywood. This marks a historic moment in Parton’s legendary career, as it will be her first-ever Oscar statuette. Known worldwide as a country music icon, actress, and cultural figure, Dolly Parton has long been celebrated not only for her talent but also for her deep compassion and generosity toward others.
The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award is one of the most prestigious honors granted by the Academy, reserved for individuals whose humanitarian efforts have brought great benefit to the public. In Dolly Parton’s case, her extensive charity work spans literacy, education, healthcare, and disaster relief. Her Imagination Library program, founded in 1995, has provided more than 230 million free books to children in over a dozen countries, inspiring a love of reading and equal access to education. Beyond that, Parton has donated millions of dollars to causes such as wildfire recovery in her home state of Tennessee and vaccine research during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Academy President Janet Yang praised Dolly as someone who “exemplifies the spirit of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award through her unwavering dedication to charitable efforts.” This recognition highlights how Parton’s influence transcends music and entertainment—she has become a global symbol of kindness, perseverance, and hope.
For decades, Dolly Parton has used her fame not for personal gain but as a platform to uplift others. Her humble nature, quick wit, and compassionate heart have made her one of the most beloved figures in popular culture. Receiving this honorary Oscar is more than a career milestone—it’s a testament to a lifetime spent making the world brighter. As the Academy honors her humanitarian legacy, fans and fellow artists alike celebrate a woman who has proven that true greatness lies not just in talent, but in giving back.