If there’s one thing fans love about the iconic Dolly Parton, it’s that she always keeps it real. Known for being one of the most legendary singers of her time, she has somehow managed to stay grounded no matter how big the stage. But looks like even the Queen of Country has to say “no” sometimes.
That’s right—recently, fans were surprised when the news broke that she had turned down an invitation from Meghan Markle for her Netflix special. This has left many wondering if there is any drama brewing between the two. And according to one royal expert, that’s definitely the case. Let’s dive deeper to find out what Parton’s team said on the matter.
Dolly Parton declined Meghan Markle’s Netflix show – and here’s the real reason why
When Meghan Markle launched her Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, fans were excited to see which stars would join her in the kitchen. The lifestyle show gained a lot of popularity as soon as it premiered in March and has already featured celebrities like Mindy Kaling and Abigail Spencer.
But behind the scenes, for the upcoming Season 2, Markle was reportedly hoping to bring in even bigger names, including the Queen of Country herself, Dolly Parton. But apparently, the music legend turned her offer down – and no, it wasn’t because she was too busy.
Dolly Parton in an interview with Dan Rather | Credits: AXS TV on YouTube
According to royal and entertainment expert Kinsey Schofield said on The Nerve with Maureen Callahan podcast, Parton’s team didn’t want to take the risk. They were reportedly very unhappy with the request and believed that the Duchess of Sussex was trying to use the singer’s popularity to boost her own image in the lifestyle space. Now, this is an area where Parton is already well-established and respected, adding:
Dolly is not only incredibly popular and loved by the general public, but she also is somebody who can float around within these different places.
Her team really feels like Meghan was trying to take advantage of her popularity.
Schofield also shared that Parton’s team was “livid” with the request. She also added:
Because no, they don’t want to risk Dolly’s reputation Q score [and] her popularity by associating with Meghan Markle.
The Queen of Country’s decision to decline came despite Markle’s efforts to bring in high-profile names onto her show. The first season of With Love, Meghan, featured eight episodes with guests like Abigail Spencer and Mindy Kaling.
While the series has already been renewed for a second season, some online reports suggest that a third may also be in development. However, the show has received mixed reviews from fans and critics alike. While her team said “no,” Parton actually has a long history of showing love and respect for the royal family.
Moreover, she even performed at Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee in the 1970s and has called meeting the late monarch one of the biggest thrills of her life. She also took part in the Platinum Jubilee celebration in 2022 with a special video message for the Queen.
And just a couple of years ago, she invited Prince William, Princess Kate, and their kids to her Dollywood theme park, saying that she’d love to treat them like royalty and serve them her famous mashed potatoes. More recently, she revealed her plans to visit London in the fall and has already scheduled tea with Queen Camilla via Parade.
With such close ties to the royals, Parton likely didn’t want to get caught up in any perceived drama surrounding Markle and the rest of the royal family.
Which celebrities appeared in Season 1 of With Love, Meghan
The first season of Meghan Markle’s Netflix series features a good mix of celebrities, close friends, and family members. One of the most familiar faces was her husband, Prince Harry, who appears briefly in the final episode. While he stays mostly behind the scenes, his presence shows his support for his wife. Moreover, Markle’s mother, Doria Ragland, also appears only in the last episode.
Meghan Markle in a still from With Love, Meghan | Credits: Netflix
Actress Mindy Kaling appears in episode two and praises the Duchess of Sussex’s cooking skills and down-to-earth personality. Fans were also surprised to see her Suits co-star and longtime friend Abigail Spencer featured in episode five. Kelly McKee Zajfen, a close friend of the former actress, also appears in two episodes and shares a deep personal connection with Markle.
Her makeup artist, Daniel Martin, appears in the first episode. Other guests like Vicky Tsai, chef Roy Choi, and Delfina Blaquier (wife of Prince Harry’s polo friend Nacho Figueras) also make an appearance.
The final episodes also introduce Meghan’s Montecito circle, including fashion designer Tracy Robbins, bookstore co-owner Jennifer Rudolph Walsh, beauty mogul Victoria Jackson, and Pilates trainer Heather Dorak. Chef Alice Waters joins in the finale, helping Meghan prepare a brunch and discussing food, nature, and connection.
So, while Parton said no, let’s see which other celebrity makes an appearance on her Netflix show.
You can watch With Love, Meghan in the USA on Netflix.