Actor Ricky Schroder has come under swift criticism after posting a tribute to the late Dolly Parton that included his disagreement with her advocacy for transgender rights and COVID-19 vaccines. Schroder wrote, "I didn't agree with her advocating for Transgender & Covid Vaccine support...but Loved her anyway," just hours after Parton's death was announced.

Dolly Parton, known as the “Queen of Country Music,” died on Tuesday, August 26, 2026, at age 80 following a brief battle with cancer at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, announced her death in a video posted to social media.

Parton was widely recognized for her contributions to music and social causes. She wrote the Oscar-nominated song “Travelin’ Thru” for the 2005 film “Transamerica” and supported marriage equality years before it became law nationwide. Additionally, she donated $1 million to COVID-19 vaccine research at Vanderbilt University.

Schroder’s tribute post drew immediate backlash from fans and celebrities. Broadcaster Katie Couric responded with the word “Ick,” while comedian and pop icon Boy George commented, “Oh shut up.”

Schroder has previously attracted attention for his political actions, including contributing $150,000 toward the $2 million bail that secured Kyle Rittenhouse’s release from jail in 2020.

Parton’s father in the 2015 TV movie “Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors” and its 2016 sequel shared a photo with the singer on social media in remembrance.

Sources