The 2026 Emmy Awards honored legendary country singer Dolly Parton with a heartfelt tribute featuring Reba McEntire, who performed Parton’s song “Appalachian Memories.” The song was originally written and recorded by Parton for her 25th solo studio album, Burlap & Satin. The tribute was introduced by Sally Field, who co-starred with Parton in the 1989 film Steel Magnolias. Parton passed away on August 25 at the age of 80, and the tribute took place just before a larger in memoriam segment honoring television actors who had died in the previous year. Sally Field opened the tribute with emotional words about her late co-star. She said, “If there are truly angels on earth, then we just lost one,” referring to Parton. Field expressed her deep admiration, stating, “I adored her from day one. How could you not?” She reflected on how she hadn’t fully recognized Parton’s greatness as both an artist and a person at the time. “I couldn’t see then what a real giant Dolly was,” she said, adding, “I am not the only one on earth who will love you forever and ever.” Reba McEntire followed Field’s tribute, taking the stage in a sparkling white gown to perform “Appalachian Memories.” After her heartfelt rendition, she concluded with, “I love you Dolly. So much.” The moment was a poignant reminder of Parton’s lasting influence in music and entertainment. Shortly after, the Emmy ceremony moved on to a larger in memoriam segment honoring television stars who had passed away in the previous year. Macaulay Culkin, Annie Murphy, and Dan Levy led the tribute. Culkin, who had a close relationship with Parton, shared personal memories, saying, “She wasn’t just a wife and mother… she was my mama. She was our mama.” He emphasized the importance of remembering her legacy, stating, “She always showed up when I asked her. We're showing up for her.”