Why Dolly Parton DECLINED Kate Middleton's Invite For Afternoon Tea

Country music icon Dolly Parton recently shared a charming story explaining her decision to decline an invitation for afternoon tea with none other than the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton. 

The story, as recounted by Parton in a lighthearted interview, unveiled a hilarious reason behind the renowned singer's choice.

Keep on reading to learn more.

Parton, known for her iconic music and bubbly personality, revealed that she had been extended an invitation for a leisurely afternoon tea with Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales. 

During a radio interview with BBC Radio2, the "Jolene" singer shared the whimsical tale that ultimately led to her turning down the royal rendezvous, as well as her regrets about not getting to tour the English capital.

"This time, Lordy, I even got invited to have tea with Kate, but I couldn't even go," she shared, per Daily Mail. "I thought it was very sweet and nice of her to invite me, and one of these days I'm going to get to do that – that would be great."

Then, with her signature humor and trademark candor, Parton went on to explain how her commitment to her craft played a crucial role in the decision-making process.

"But she wasn't going to promote my rock album so I had to say no," she added.

Parton also expressed her regret over being unable to explore the English capital due to her jam-packed schedule. The beloved singer-songwriter, known for her distinctive voice and heartwarming lyrics, shared her sentiments during the interview with BBC Radio 2.

Parton said, "I love the people, the feel of London. I don't unfortunately [get time to sightsee]. I have in the past, me and my band, in a tour bus when we have it planned."

The "Coat of Many Colors" singer has a strong following in the United Kingdom, particularly in London, where her music has resonated with people from all walks of life. 

In a resounding declaration, the 77-year-old country music sensation stated that retirement is not in her plans, asserting that she would rather "drop dead on stage" than step away from the spotlight.

The "I Will Always Love You" singer made her passionate proclamation during a recent interview with Ken Bruce on Greatest Hits Radio. 

Parton, whose illustrious career spans over five decades, has been a staple in the world of country music since the 1960s. She has achieved countless accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards, hit singles, and timeless albums.

"I would never retire. I would hopefully drop dead in the middle of a song on stage someday – and hopefully one I've written – but that's how I hope to go," she shared. "I don't have much of a choice in that, but in the meantime, I'm going to make hay while the sun shines."

In her interview, Parton revealed her intention to scale back on touring and shift her focus towards hosting more television shows, further demonstrating her multifaceted talents and commitment to entertaining audiences.

"I'm not touring anymore, but I will continue to do special shows here and there now and then like a long weekend or festival shows," she added. "But as far as touring, I think those days are pretty much behind me... You have to stay gone so long on a tour to make it productive and prosperous, and that's a lot of time at my age – I ain't got no years to waste."

Parton went on to share how she intends to spend her free time, saying that she wants to flag off her TV series called "The Life of Many Colours," which will pull back the curtains on things people haven't "seen or heard" about her and her journey to becoming who she is.

"So that's one thing I want to do and then just host more TV shows, do more movies. I want to have my own line of makeup, own line of wigs and clothes," Parton noted. "Once you get to a certain place in your career, you get a lot of offers and some of them are just really hard to turn down."