Julia Roberts Recalls Dolly Parton’s Inspirational Advice on Steel Magnolias Set

POLICY WIRE — Nashville, Tennessee — Julia Roberts reminisced about a pivotal moment with the late Dolly Parton on the set of the 1989 film Steel Magnolias. Parton, who passed away at 80, offered Roberts, then a young actress, a life lesson during a particularly hot day of filming in Louisiana.

Roberts recounted the incident during an appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 1989. She shared that Parton, despite the discomfort of the heat, maintained a positive attitude, advising Roberts to embrace the situation without complaint.

Everyone was complaining about the heat, but Dolly, with her wig and wool, just kept going, Roberts recalled. Parton’s response to Roberts’ complaint was profound: When I was a little girl, I wanted to be famous and rich, and now I am. I’m not going to complain about it.

This advice left a lasting impression on Roberts, who admitted that she has carried Parton’s words with her, using them as a reminder to stay positive in challenging situations.

In Steel Magnolias, Parton played the role of Truvy Jones, a Louisiana beauty salon owner, while Roberts portrayed Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie, a young bride. The film, a comedy-drama about a group of women supporting each other through life’s challenges, also featured Sally Field, Daryl Hannah, Shirley MacLaine, Olympia Dukakis, Tom Skerritt, and Sam Shepard.

Following Parton’s death, Roberts expressed her grief in a statement, describing Parton as a “magical and joyous human” whose presence she cherished. Other colleagues, including MacLaine, Hannah, and Field, also paid tribute to Parton, highlighting her warmth, humor, and generosity.

Parton’s death was confirmed by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, who announced that she passed away in Nashville after a brief battle with cancer, surrounded by loved ones. Miley Cyrus, Parton’s goddaughter, also shared her memories, referring to Parton as an “angel” and expressing her love and admiration.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)