The 33-year-old singer paid tribute to Parton by performing “Jolene”, one of the country star’s most famous songs, while reflecting on their close relationship and the memories they shared.

According to People magazine, Cyrus spoke to the audience before the performance, recalling the only time she had watched Parton perform live at the Hollywood Bowl.

Cyrus explained that she had wanted to experience the concert as an ordinary fan rather than join her godmother on stage.

Parton agreed, but later surprised the audience by performing “The Best of Both Worlds”, the theme song from Hannah Montana, and announcing that Cyrus was watching from the crowd.

Cyrus said the memory had become particularly meaningful following Parton’s death.

“Like so many things Dolly did, that I didn’t understand it at the time, sitting here with you all right now, feeling her all around me, knowing that she’s right here beside me every day, all the time, more than she could be when she was here,” she told the audience.

She added that sharing the story made the experience even more precious.

“This memory is gold to me,” Cyrus said.

Overcome with emotion, the singer also spoke about the enduring bond between them.

“Me and Dolly, we are eternal. Nothing in this life could tear us apart,” she said, adding that she looked forward to seeing her godmother again because she missed her.

Parton died on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80, leaving behind a musical legacy that influenced generations of artists.

Cyrus had known Parton since birth. The country star became her godmother after developing a close friendship with Cyrus’s father, singer Billy Ray Cyrus, during the 1990s.

Their relationship extended beyond family ties into their professional lives.

Parton appeared as a recurring character on Hannah Montana, the Disney Channel series that helped launch Cyrus’s career, playing her character’s fairy godmother in three episodes between 2006 and 2010.

The two singers also collaborated on music, including a version of Cyrus’s 2013 hit “Wrecking Ball” for Parton’s 2023 album Rockstar.

Cyrus affectionately referred to Parton as “Aunt Dolly” and previously credited her with teaching her the importance of treating people with love and respect.

Following Parton’s death, Cyrus shared a heartfelt message on social media, describing their most meaningful moments as private memories that would remain between them.

The Hollywood Bowl tribute offered another public expression of that relationship, celebrating not only Parton’s music but also the lasting influence she had on Cyrus’s life.