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Dolly Parton and Miley Cyrus weren’t just godmother and goddaughter — they were actually related
Ancestry.com said the singers share John Brickey as a 1700s ancestor, while their longtime godmother-goddaughter bond grew from Billy Ray Cyrus’s tour days.
In an interview with Variety, Miley Cyrus revealed that godmother Dolly Parton provided advice on promoting projects, which helped bring her Hannah Montanaanniversary special to life.
Parton formed a close bond with Billy Ray Cyrus while touring in the early 90s, which led to her becoming godmother to Miley Cyrus and creating a relationship spanning decades.
At a previous screening, Cyrus shared Parton's wisdom: "You do you, I'll do me, and together we'll be us." This guidance helped Cyrus distinguish between being admired and truly understood.
Professional collaborations include Parton's stint on Hannah Montana, performances of Wrecking Ball, and both artists appearing on the Cowboy Carter album, cementing their creative partnership.
An Ancestry report revealed they are seventh cousins once removed, with ancestors living within a 20-mile radius of Dollywood in the Smoky Mountains. Parton, who died at age 80, maintained this bond throughout her life.
Dolly Parton was much more than Miley Cyrus’ godmother, she was a family figure, an artistic influence and a counselor whose footprint accompanied the singer from ‘Hannah Montana’ to the Grammy.