Throughout her time in the spotlight, Dolly Parton has proven countless times that her talents extend far beyond the stage. Dinner theaters, Hollywood and even amusement parks are their signatures. But in 1976, the country icon found herself with her own variety show. Running for only one season, Dolly, in her usual fashion, continues to create moments that fans will remember decades later. When Dolly saw one of those moments, she once paid tribute to Glen Campbell with a cover of “Rhinestone Cowboy.”
Although “Rhinestone Cowboy” was written and recorded by Larry Weiss, it did not gain popularity until Campbell produced his own version in 1975. The song quickly became a country classic, peaking at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 and US Billboard Hot Country Singles.
Just one year after its release, Dolly signed a contract to produce a variety show called – The innocent. Covering many of the singer’s songs, “Rhinestone Cowboy” stood out as something different. Instead of just performing hit songs as fans already knew, Dolly brought her charm and personality to the streets of Nashville, turning the songs into fun tributes that felt unique.
(RELATED: 3 Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton Duets That Aren’t ‘Islands in the Stream’)
What happened to Dolly Parton’s variety show?
Related The innocentThe show only lasted one season. Given their brand reputation and experience when it comes to business, the cancellation of the offer had nothing to do with abuse. Given his stardom at the time, fans loved the show. Dolly was first approached to have her own variety show thanks to a partnership with Porter Wagoner.
During the 1970s, Bill Graham, president of Show Biz Inc., approached Dolly with the idea of bringing her interesting style and talent to homes across the country. With a budget of $100,000 per episode, it was the most expensive show in Nashville at the time.
With ratings rising, budgets rising, and the presence of Kenny Rogers, Ronnie Milsap and others – what happened?
The final episode aired in March 1977 when Dolly asked Show Biz Inc. She was released from her contract due to the demanding schedule. Despite strong ratings, the show only lasted one season as the long hours affected its voice. Those long days involved working up to 18 hours a day.
Although shows came and went quickly, shows like “Rhinestone Cowboy” remain reminders of Dolly’s timeless magic.
(Photo by David Redfern/Redfern)
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