When it comes to Dolly Parton, there's hardly a corner of her life that hasn't been illuminated by the spotlight over the last five decades. But one part of her life remains refreshingly private: her relationship with Carl Thomas Dean. Even as one of the most celebrated stars in the music industry, Dolly has managed to keep her love life with Carl sacred and off the public radar. Let's dive into the story of how this iconic couple met, how they’ve stayed together, and why they’ve chosen to keep their love out of the spotlight.

The Laundromat Romance: How Dolly Parton Met Carl Thomas Dean

Back in 1964, Dolly Parton arrived in Nashville with big dreams and a suitcase full of dirty laundry. Fresh out of high school, she left her family home near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee to chase her musical aspirations. It was during one of her first visits to a laundromat in Music City where fate intervened, introducing her to the man who would become her lifelong partner, Carl Thomas Dean.

Recalling the moment in a 1976 interview with The New York Times, Dolly shared the story of how their love began. "I'd come to Nashville with dirty clothes," she said. "I was in such a hurry to get there—and after I’d put my clothes in the machine, I started walkin’ down the street, just lookin’ at my new home. This guy hollered at me, and I waved. Bein’ from the country, I spoke to everybody. And he came over, and well, it was Carl, my husband." From that chance encounter, their love blossomed into something extraordinary.

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A Simple Wedding: Dolly Parton and Carl Thomas Dean Tie the Knot

After two years of dating, Carl, who at the time owned an asphalt-laying company, proposed to Dolly. On May 30, 1966, the couple exchanged vows in a private ceremony at the Ringgold Baptist Church in Ringgold, Georgia. No grand fanfare, no media circus—just two people deeply in love, committing to each other in a quiet, meaningful way.

More than a decade after their wedding, Dolly opened up about their marriage in a rare interview. "He’s sort of shy and quiet," she told People magazine in 1977. "What we have together is so sweet and good that I’d never want it to get jumbled up with the other." Her words painted a picture of a relationship built on genuine connection and mutual respect, far removed from the glitz and glamour of her public life.

Over the years, the renowned songwriter has been seen out in public with Carl on only a few occasions. "I’ve known how to keep my husband private," Dolly explained during a 2022 appearance on The Kelleigh Bannen Show. "It’s just natural to me to protect the things and the people I love and to protect my own privacy." Her dedication to safeguarding their personal life speaks volumes about the strength of their bond.

Dolly Parton wears black top and pants with sparkly heels — Sam Hodde/Getty Images for ABA

Still Going Strong: Are Dolly Parton and Carl Thomas Dean Still Together?

Even with their minimal public appearances, Dolly and Carl’s love story continues to thrive. In May 2023, the couple celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary, proving that true love can endure through the test of time. Their commitment to each other is a testament to the strength and depth of their relationship, which remains a beacon of hope for romantics everywhere.

A Life Without Children: Does Dolly Parton Have Kids?

Throughout their long and loving marriage, Dolly and Carl made the conscious decision not to have children. In a 2017 interview with Closer, Dolly shared her perspective on this choice. "God has a plan for everything, and I think it probably was his plan for me not to have kids, so that everybody’s kids could be mine," she said. Her words reflect a deep sense of purpose and a desire to spread love far and wide.

Dolly and Carl have remained close to all of her siblings’ children over the past few decades. "I’ve loved their kids just like they’re my grandkids, and now I’ve got great-grandkids!" Dolly gushed to People in 2014. Her ability to embrace the extended family as her own highlights her generous spirit and the joy she finds in nurturing relationships.