Dolly Parton's Acting 'Not News' to Her

Dolly Parton, who passed away at 80 years old on August 25th, 2026, reflected on her 1989 "Steel Magnolias" co-starring role. In her 1994 autobiography, Parton detailed her experiences with director Herbert Ross.

Ross reportedly told Parton she "couldn't act," a sentiment she readily agreed with. She explained to him that her role was to be a personality, and it was his job as director to make her appear to be acting.

Sally Field, also part of the "Steel Magnolias" cast, recounted in a 2024 interview that Ross was particularly hard on a younger Julia Roberts. Field mentioned that the cast would frequently support Roberts, whom they affectionately called "the baby" of the group.

Field also shared instances where Parton would defend Roberts and challenge the director, often using humor. Despite the initial difficulties, Parton noted that by the end of filming, she, Roberts, and Ross had made peace and become friends.