Dolly Parton's 'Up yours, buster' moment remembered as Australia mourns
Dolly Parton, the Queen of Country, has died at the age of 80, prompting tributes from across the globe and a reflection on one of Australian television's most memorable celebrity moments.
The singer's nephew confirmed her passing on Wednesday. Parton's career spanned more than six decades, making her one of the most successful and beloved figures in country music and film.
How did the iconic 60 Minutes interview come about?
In 1986, journalist Mike Munro sat down with Parton for a 60 Minutes interview that would become legendary. The then-fledgling reporter asked the singer about her measurements, a question that drew a sharp and unforgettable response.
“No you can't. Up yours, buster,” Parton said with a laugh.
Speaking to 2GB's Ben Fordham on Wednesday morning, Munro recalled the moment with fondness, describing Parton as a “very special lady” and a “24-carat gold legend.”
Munro admitted he was “absolutely” nervous during what was his first major celebrity interview, but said Parton had a way of putting people at ease.
“She was the sort of lady that made you feel relaxed,” he said.
When asked about the bold question regarding her bust, Munro said he felt comfortable raising it because Parton was “so open” about her figure. He revealed that when the cameras stopped rolling, she did share her measurements with him.
“Everyone said I should carry a .45 instead of wearing one,” she told him.
What was Dolly Parton's connection to Australia?
Parton visited Australia frequently throughout her career, particularly in the 1980s during a tour with Kenny Rogers. In 1987, she was handed the keys to the city of Melbourne in front of hundreds of fans.
Photographer Chris Rostron, who spent a day with the singer during that visit, remembered her as “very easy going and engaged.”
“Dolly loved a snag in bread and a stubby of beer,” Rostron said. “She made everyone in the group feel special.”
He added that Parton commented on the Dandenong Ranges, saying the scenery reminded her of her childhood home in Tennessee.
How are Australian figures paying tribute?
Singer Marcia Hines described Parton as a “force so strong,” sharing a piece of wisdom the country star often offered: “Don't get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Parton “made our world a better place in so many ways, it's hard to imagine the world without her.”
Albanese recalled helping Parton get her tour bus on to Australian roads in 2011, describing the experience as “magical.”
“There are a lot of broken hearts in Australia and across the world today. Wherever you are, turn your stereo or your phone to Dolly then turn the volume up,” he said.
What was Dolly Parton's legacy?
Born in Tennessee in 1946, Parton became one of the best-selling musicians of all time, with hits including 9 to 5, I Will Always Love You and Islands in the Stream.
She earned 11 Grammy Awards and two Academy Award nominations for Best Original Song, and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Her impact on popular culture and her enduring connection with Australian audiences will not be forgotten.