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This week, Ancestry revealed that country legend Dolly Parton and her goddaughter, pop star Miley Cyrus, are related by blood. In a surprising twist, the two are distant relatives, as confirmed by Ancestry’s latest discovery.
Parton learned the news during an interview, where she was promoting her new cookbook ‘Good Lookin’ Cookin’, co-authored by her sister, Rachel. The revelation came as a pleasant shock to the singer, who has always considered the Miley family.
Image Courtesy: People
Ancestry’s statement detailed that Parton and Cyrus are seventh cousins, once removed, tracing their connection to a shared ancestor, John Brickey, born in 1740 in Virginia. According to the genealogy site, Brickey later moved to Blount County, Tennessee, where both stars have deep family roots.
Brickey’s lineage stretches back to France, with his family settling in the U.S. in the late 1600s. The news not only deepens the bond between the two but adds a fascinating historical twist to their already close relationship.
Upon hearing the news, Parton couldn’t contain her excitement. “Is that true? That’s amazing!” she exclaimed during the interview. She even joked about their newfound familial connection, saying, “Well, we’re so close, Miley and I. I would’ve thought we would’ve been at least third cousins, 10 times removed!” Despite the distant relation, Parton expressed that the bond she shares with Cyrus already feels as strong as family.
Image Courtesy: Entertainment Weekly
The revelation only strengthens the unique relationship Parton and Cyrus have built over the years. Parton, a mentor and godmother to the 31-year-old pop sensation, has been a guiding figure in Miley’s life. In fact, Cyrus revealed on “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction” with David Letterman that it was Parton’s encouragement that pushed her to deliver her standout 2024 Grammy Awards performance of “Flowers.” Parton’s advice helped Cyrus embrace the moment and shine at the prestigious event.
Dolly Parton’s role as Miley’s godmother stems from her long-standing friendship with Billy Ray Cyrus, Miley’s father. Their bond dates back decades, with Parton recalling her promise to be Miley’s godmother shortly after she was born. “When she was born, [her father] said, ‘You just have to be her godmother,’ and I said, ‘I accept,’” Parton shared in a 2009 interview, further solidifying their deep-rooted connection.
Though the godmother-goddaughter relationship never involved a formal ceremony, the emotional connection between Parton and Miley runs deep. Parton has always been proud of Cyrus, admiring her growth as both a person and an artist. She’s often expressed her love for Miley, considering her to be like one of her own children.
This newfound family link adds another layer to their already storied relationship. Fans of both stars are delighted by the news, and it further solidifies their place in the rich tapestry of Tennessee’s musical heritage. As their bond continues to strengthen, the Parton-Cyrus connection becomes an even more heartwarming story, blending family, history, and music.
-Sushmita Sarkar
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