AI-generated death hoax targets Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire
An AI-generated image falsely depicting Reba McEntire at Dolly Parton's deathbed circulated on social media. Both artists publicly debunked the image and addressed it as part of a pattern of AI-generated hoaxes targeting them.
What happened
An AI-generated image surfaced showing Reba McEntire at Dolly Parton's deathbed. The image emerged amid rumors about Parton's health following her postponement of Las Vegas concerts for health issues.
Parton addressed the AI image on Instagram, saying: 'Did you see that AI picture of Reba and me? Oh Lordy! I mean, they had Reba at my deathbed, and we both look like we need to be buried.' McEntire responded by calling it an 'AI mess,' adding: 'You're out here dying, I'm out here having a baby. Well, both of us know you're too young and I'm too old for any of that kind of nonsense.'
Reported impact
The incident circulated on social media as part of spreading misinformation about Parton's health and the two artists' activities.
Index analysis
This was not the first AI-related hoax involving the two artists. Previous rumors included a fake 'One Last Ride' tour announcement for 2026 and claims they performed together at Food Network star Anne Burrell's funeral in June.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.