Lizzo faced criticism from some social media users after dressing as Dolly Parton for Halloween, with commenters questioning whether the tribute came too soon after the country singer's death. Others defended the costume and said Parton would have appreciated the impersonation.
The 38-year-old singer, whose full name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson, shared photographs and video of her look on 31 October 2026. She wore a fitted yellow floral jumpsuit and a voluminous blonde wig inspired by the artwork for Parton's 1973 single "Jolene." In a separate clip, Lizzo lip-synced to Parton's 1967 song "Dumb Blonde".
Parton died on 25 August 2026 at the age of 80. The Halloween posts appeared a little over two months later, and appeared to be intended as a tribute by the artist to a foundational figure of modern country music. Despite this, it prompted differing reactions among people commenting online.
Criticism and Defence in the Comments
One commenter called the lip-sync "more mocking and disrespectful" than the tribute they believed Lizzo intended. Another wrote, "It's a little too soon no? Read the room." Other viewers disagreed. One responded, "Y'all doing too much...Dolly would've LOVED this stop." Another wrote, "Everyone saying this is disrespectful clearly don't know dolly or her personality."
Singer SZA also reacted positively to Lizzo's costume, commenting on her post, "How is everything u do perfect," alongside a tearful emoji. No public statement from Parton's family responding to the costume was identified in the reporting reviewed. Lizzo has also not responded to any of the negative comments to the costume as of press time.
A Tribute with a Personal Connection
Lizzo also used her Halloween photographs to recall a professional connection with Parton. She contributed flute to Parton's version of Led Zeppelin's 'Stairway to Heaven,' included on the country star's 2023 album Rockstar, released in November of that year. The recording credited Lizzo and her flute persona, Sasha Floot.
In her caption, Lizzo said Parton invited her to play on the album in 2024, describing the approach as support during a difficult period. That recollection does not align with the album's November 2023 release or her own controversies at the time, so the 2024 timing is Lizzo's account rather than an independently established date for the recording session.
Lizzo said she asked for Sasha Floot to receive credit alongside her contribution. She added that Parton honoured the request and that they later received a plaque connected with the album.
The singer accompanied her costume with a caption reading, "Singing Jolene tonight 4 U @dollyparton." Her photographs also included a recreation of another version of the "Jolene" artwork, set against a red background, and a photograph featuring a guitar and a framed album plaque.
Parton's Views on Halloween Impersonations
Parton had previously spoken favourably about people dressing as her. During an appearance at the National Press Club on 10 February 2009, she described seeing people copy her recognisable appearance as a compliment. Parton's blonde wigs, bright costumes, and exaggerated stage styling made her a familiar Halloween inspiration.
Lizzo's outfit drew on the specific yellow-and-floral "Jolene" single artwork, while her video featured the different song "Dumb Blonde." The two references came from separate points in Parton's early career.
Another Halloween look
Lizzo also shared a Playboy Bunny-inspired outfit during the Halloween weekend. The second costume featured gold satin, matching bunny ears, a bow tie, and a blonde wig. It appeared separately from her Parton-themed posts.
The Parton tribute carried a more personal message. Lizzo thanked the late singer for recognising her musical contribution and for showing support when she felt isolated. She wrote that Parton believed in people's goodness and ended her message with a declaration of enduring affection: "We will always love you."
