Parton says Cyrus felt “like family,” even before she knew they were related by blood
Dolly Parton, also known as “Aunt Dolly” to Hannah Montana fans, has revealed she shares ancestry with Miley Cyrus. The singers have a common relative born in the 18th century, making Parton the relative’s sixth great granddaughter and Cyrus the seventh great granddaughter. Parton told Access Hollywood on Monday that the news didn’t surprise her, because goddaughter Cyrus “feel[s] like family.”
“We’re so close, Miley and I,” Parton said about their close bond. “I would’ve thought we’d have been at least third cousins, 10 times removed. I’m sure she’ll get a kick out of that.”
The singers are both related to John Brickey, a man born in 1740 who left Virginia with his family for Blount County, Tennessee. The news makes Parton and Cyrus seventh cousins, once removed.
News of the generational ties arrives as Parton is working on upcoming musical and visual intergenerational project, Smoky Mountain DNA — Family, Faith & Fables. Parton kept the project, which arrives Nov. 15, in the family: Parton’s cousin Richie Owens produced the album, Parton’s niece Heidi Parton sings lead vocals in “A Rose Won’t Fix It,” and contributions from family members who have died, including Parton’s late grandfather, Reverend Jake Owens, are also incorporated in select songs. Along with the 37-track project, Parton also plans to premiere a four-part docuseries tracing her musical lineage.
“I cannot believe that it has been 60 years this month since I graduated from Sevier County High School and moved to Nashville to pursue my dreams,” Parton previously shared in a statement. “My Uncle Bill Owens was by my side for many years helping me develop my music. I owe so much to him and all the family members past and present who have inspired me along this journey. I am honored to spotlight our families’ musical legacy that is my Smoky Mountain DNA.”
