Jennifer Hudson honors Dolly Parton at Power of Women event with moving cover song tribute

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA: Dolly Parton’s death has been one of the most heartbreaking and shocking losses of 2026. The country music icon was cherished by millions, and her passing after a brief battle with cancer deeply affected the Hollywood fraternity.

Several celebrities have honored Parton in their own ways, and now Jennifer Hudson has paid tribute to the late singer at the 2026 ‘Power of Women’ event. Hudson performed one of Parton’s most popular songs at the event, delivering a moving tribute to the country music legend and celebrating her lasting legacy.

Jennifer Hudson pays tribute to Dolly Parton at Power of Women

After gracing the cover of the annual ‘Power of Women’ edition, Hudson showed off her powerhouse vocals with a stunning rendition of Parton’s 1974 classic, ‘I Will Always Love You.’

Dressed in a white gown, Hudson delivered the song in her soulful, serene voice, earning a warm round of applause from the audience. Her heartfelt performance served as a fitting tribute to the country music legend and celebrated the lasting impact of one of Parton’s most iconic songs.

This was not the first time Hudson had honored Parton following her death. Sharing a tribute earlier, she wrote, “Dolly Parton taught us that a woman can be powerful, beautiful and talented, and still be kind."

"And that success never has to come at the expense of grace, generosity, or heart !! What a wonderful example she set for us all. Rest well, Ms. Parton! We will always love you!! May your light shine on..”

Dolly Parton dies at 80 after brief cancer battle

Parton passed away at the age of 80 on August 25 after a brief battle with cancer. Her publicist and estate confirmed her death in an official statement, remembering the country music icon for the joy, hope and generosity she brought to countless lives.

“Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand,” the statement read.

“Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact."

"After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones,” the statement concluded.