Every Movie Dolly Parton Has Ever Starred in, Ranked

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There’s truly no one like Dolly Parton. For decades, she’s captivated audiences with her signature style – big hair, sparkling outfits, and a one-of-a-kind voice – across music, film, and TV. As a country music icon and incredibly talented songwriter, she’s had a huge impact on pop culture. From timeless songs like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You” to her work with the Imagination Library, Dolly’s career has been all about creativity and constantly reinventing herself.

Dolly Parton’s talents extend beyond music. Like many charismatic performers, she successfully transitioned to acting, bringing her trademark warmth and humor to the movies. Her film work includes fun comedies and heartwarming holiday films. She’s played a variety of roles – everything from a feisty office worker to a heavenly country singer, and she’s often made appearances as herself. While some of her films are well-known classics, others are wonderfully quirky, but they all share a special, appealing quality.

Here is every movie Dolly Parton has starred in, ranked.

10
‘Frank McClusky, C.I.’ (2002)

Directed by Arlene Sanford, *Frank McClusky, C.I.* centers around Frank, an insurance investigator who’s intensely focused on safety. This obsession stems from a childhood incident where his stuntman father, known as “Madman” McClusky, suffered a coma during a dangerous act. Raised by his overly cautious mother, Edith, Frank leads a protected life until his partner is killed, forcing him to go undercover—using various disguises—to investigate a web of jockey schemes and insurance fraud.

Has a Few Moments of Charm

I have to admit, this movie really goes all-in on the physical comedy, and it’s mostly focused on Frank’s crazy stunts. They even packed it with a bunch of celebrity cameos! While most critics weren’t impressed and it didn’t really stick around in people’s minds, Dolly Parton is fantastic as Edith McClusky. She brings such warmth and energy to the role, and her scenes – especially the ones where they’re going through all these complicated safety checks – really show off how funny she is. She’s definitely a highlight in a movie that’s a bit hit or miss overall.

9
‘Unlikely Angel’ (1996)

In the movie *Unlikely Angel*, Dolly Parton stars as Ruby Diamond, a lively country singer who isn’t always kindhearted. She dies in a car accident after finding out her boyfriend has been unfaithful. At the entrance to heaven, Ruby meets Saint Peter, who gives her another chance. She can earn her angel wings by going back to Earth and bringing the separated Bartilson family back together before Christmas Eve ends.

A Fan Favorite During the Holidays

This heartwarming holiday film, *Unlikely Angel*, is classic Dolly Parton – full of music, charm, and heartfelt emotion. The story follows a journey of rediscovering happiness and connection, guided by a bit of tough love and even some divine intervention. While the main character starts out focused on herself, she learns to truly care for others, and Dolly’s musical numbers – including the previously unreleased song “Whatcha Tryin’ To Do To Me” – beautifully complement the story.

8
‘Christmas on the Square’ (2020)

I recently watched this really sweet musical on Netflix, and it’s just lovely! Dolly Parton plays an actual angel – seriously! – whose job is to help a rather cold-hearted woman named Regina. Regina goes back to her hometown intending to kick everyone out and sell the land, but Dolly’s character tries to remind her of what truly matters. It’s full of flashbacks, encounters with the townspeople, and a whole lot of Dolly Parton sparkle, all working to help Regina find a better path.

Dolly Parton Is the Guiding Star

Christine Baranski stars as Regina, and the film centers on her decision to choose kindness over money. Dolly Parton plays Angel, a character who’s much more than just a cameo – she guides the story’s morals, provides its heart through music, and emotionally connects everything together. Her songs fit perfectly into the plot, and she delivers a truly captivating performance. Despite receiving varied reviews, *Christmas on the Square* actually won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Television Movie.

7
‘Joyful Noise’ (2012)

Joyful Noise is a movie set in the small town of Pacashau, Georgia, about a church choir facing a challenge. When their choir director unexpectedly passes away, Vi Rose Hill (Queen Latifah), a hardworking single mom, and G.G. Sparrow (Dolly Parton), the former director’s wealthy widow, are put in charge. Despite their different personalities, they must learn to work together to revitalize the choir and decide whether to stick to tradition or try something new.

Holds Her Own in an Ensemble

Todd Graff’s *Joyful Noise* is a delightful blend of faith, family, and powerful singing, largely due to the fantastic performances by Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah. Parton plays G.G., a spirited and outspoken woman with a kind heart who isn’t afraid to stand her ground. The chemistry between Parton and Latifah is especially noticeable in scenes like their lively argument at the diner. Dolly Parton also co-wrote several original songs for the film, including the touching ballad “From Here to the Moon and Back,” making the movie a wonderful display of both her acting and musical talents.

6
‘Rhinestone’ (1982)

Rhinestone is a funny movie about Dolly Parton, who plays a country singer named Jake Farris. She’s stuck working for a dishonest club owner in New York and tries to get out of her contract by making a bet: she claims she can turn any New Yorker into a country music star. To prove it, she brings a clueless cab driver named Nick Martinelli to Tennessee, hoping to teach him enough to perform in just two weeks.

Known for Its Sheer Audacity

Though often criticized for not hitting the mark, *Rhinestone* remains an interesting look at Dolly Parton’s bold choices in film. Parton is captivating, hilarious, self-assured, and her musical numbers are perfect, even when the movie’s plot gets strange. She’s paired with Sylvester Stallone, who seems out of sync with the rest of the film, but their on-screen connection is surprisingly charming.

5
‘Blue Valley Songbird’ (1999)

Inspired by Dolly Parton’s song, *Blue Valley Songbird* follows Leanne Taylor, a talented country singer poised for success but burdened by a difficult past. Her boyfriend and manager, Hank, limits her career by controlling her and only booking small performances. When Leanne meets a supportive producer who believes in her, she starts to find her artistic freedom again.

A Small-Town Melodrama

This TV movie tells the story of a performer overcoming her fear of the stage to rediscover her confidence and artistic voice, culminating in a moving performance. Directed by Richard A. Colla, it’s considered one of Dolly Parton’s most heartfelt roles. The film uses flashbacks effectively and honestly, showing that Parton’s talent truly shines even without elaborate sets or costumes – a simple story and a song are all she needs.

4
‘Steel Magnolias’ (1989)

Set in a Louisiana beauty salon, *Steel Magnolias* tells the story of six close-knit women who support each other through life’s ups and downs. The film focuses on Shelby, a determined young woman with diabetes, and her caring mother, M’Lynn. Despite health concerns, Shelby starts a family, and the women come together to celebrate the good times and help each other through difficult ones.

Celebration of Womanhood

Despite a strong performance by Julia Roberts, which even garnered her an Oscar nomination, Dolly Parton’s character, Truvy, is the heart of the film. Her cheerful, caring nature, and quick wit create a welcoming and comforting atmosphere in the salon, making it a safe haven. Herbert Ross skillfully directs the movie, blending both funny and sad moments beautifully, and the actors share a natural, easy connection with each other.

3
‘The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas’ (1982)

This funny and lively movie is based on the Broadway musical and tells the story of Miss Mona Stangley (played by Dolly Parton), who runs a famous and long-established brothel called the Chicken Ranch in rural Texas. Protected by the local sheriff, Ed Earl Dodd, Mona keeps things running smoothly with a touch of Southern hospitality. However, when a zealous TV personality named Melvin P. Thorpe tries to shut the ranch down, the whole town gets caught up in a scandal.

One of Her Most Iconic Screen Turns

Dolly Parton shines as Miss Mona, perfectly capturing a character who is both strong and kind, with plenty of wit and heart. Her performance of “I Will Always Love You,” especially the emotional scene with Burt Reynolds, is a highlight of the film. Ultimately, *The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas* is a fun and thought-provoking movie, and Dolly Parton keeps it relatable with her genuine warmth.

2
‘Straight Talk’ (1992)

Shirlee Kenyon, a dance teacher originally from Arkansas, unexpectedly finds herself working as a radio advice columnist in Chicago. She quickly becomes popular thanks to her honest and insightful guidance. While navigating her newfound fame, Shirlee also begins a romance with Jack Russell, a journalist who is secretly investigating her background.

Dolly Parton Giving Unlicensed Advice

Barnet Kellman’s *Straight Talk* is a charming and funny romantic comedy starring Dolly Parton. Parton shines, bringing her authentic personality to the role and effortlessly driving the story. The film is filled with genuinely humorous moments, especially when Parton plays a radio advice giver with lines like, “Get off the cross, honey, somebody needs the wood.” Her chemistry with James Woods is also surprisingly sweet. While it wasn’t a critical success, *Straight Talk* has earned a dedicated following and continues to be a feel-good favorite.

1
‘9 to 5’ (1980)

9 to 5 is a funny movie about three office workers – Judy, Violet, and Doralee – who decide to get revenge on their arrogant and unfair boss, Franklin Hart Jr. Through a series of chaotic events, including a surprising kidnapping scheme, they manage to transform their awful workplace into a much better place for everyone.

Revenge Fantasy With a Punchline

Dolly Parton truly shined in her first major movie role as Doralee, a character who is both kind and incredibly strong. She handles difficult situations with dignity and ultimately becomes a leader in fighting for what’s right. Her timing and delivery are perfect, and the scene where she confronts her boss with a gun is iconic. The film *9 to 5* was a big success, and Dolly received an Academy Award nomination for its theme song, “9 to 5,” which quickly became a beloved and recognizable song for a generation.

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2025-10-11 23:07