Winkler Remembers Dolly Parton's Magic

Henry Winkler recently shared his fond memories of working with the late Dolly Parton. Winkler, himself 80, directed Parton in her 1986 television film, 'A Smoky Mountain Christmas,' describing it as one of his first directing jobs. He praised Parton, stating, "Everything you imagine, she is, or was." The film, though shot elsewhere, was based on Parton's experiences growing up in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains.

'A Smoky Mountain Christmas' followed country star Lorna Davis, played by Parton, who sought solitude in a remote cabin. She encountered orphans and agreed to protect them from paparazzi in exchange for their silence about her whereabouts. The movie also starred Lee Majors and Bo Hopkins, with Parton contributing six original songs. Parton died on August 25th, at age 80, after a brief battle with cancer. Her representatives confirmed her passing, noting she was surrounded by loved ones.